This article explores the beginning phase of isiZulu folktales. This phase will be discussed based on the views of Propp and Olrik, who are folklore theorists. For the sake of clarity on the theories, their explanation will not be limited to the views of these theorists on the beginning phase, but they will be discussed comprehensively, and have the application effected on the phase under scrutiny. These theorists are selected, as their ideas are applicable to the folktales to be analysed. Consideration will also be made of the combined approaches of the theorists. The folktales to be considered are ‘UNanana Nendlovu’, ‘Abafo Ababili’, ‘KwaNtunjambili’, and ‘Ukuqinela Amazimuzimu’, all found in Nkosi and Zama’s Kanisamili Zimpondo. These folktales are selected, as the beginning phase is depicted very vividly in them, and they lend themselves clearly to the ideas of the above theorists. The subtopics of this discourse are introduction, Propp’s approach, Olrik’s Laws, combined approaches, and conclusion.

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