The Witch Doctor and other Rhodesian Studies

"The Witch Doctor and other Rhodesian Studies" by Frank Worthington is a selection of early 20th-century tales and reflections unveiling the vibrant life and complex social web of Northern Rhodesia. These narratives cast a vivid light on the relationships between colonial administrators and the native people they governed, exploring themes of power, tradition, and the clashes between differing cultures. The book plunges into the heart of a Native Commissioner's Court, where a father seeks justice for his son's death, allegedly caused by witchcraft, revealing the tensions between ancient beliefs and the new colonial rule. As the Commissioner navigates this delicate situation, balancing authority with the deep-rooted customs of the community, the arrest of a witch doctor stirs up a whirlwind of doubt and assertion, thereby drawing readers into the nuanced lives of those living in Rhodesia, and revealing the intricate interplay between colonizers and the local population, providing a rich perspective on a society caught between tradition and the changing world.