Proverbs in African Orature examines how preliterate Africans handle oral literacy criticism of their proverbs. The study demonstrates that Africans employ literary styles and strategies in speaking their proverbs. It also shows that the notion and practice of literary aesthetics are indigenous to African peoples. In studying these proverbs, the author goes beyond mere translation or contextual analysis and employs a new empirical approach. The approach involves the researcher recording live scenes of proverb use, appreciation, and criticism by the people of Aniocha in Delta State, Nigeria. By examining the literary background and the present study, the author demonstrates that scholars have indeed recognized the need for this new approach but have not yet tried it. Monye is the first. The author also situates proverbs in the context of other African oral forms, drawing copious examples from the Anoicha Igbo people. This study and analysis reveals that Anoicha proverbs have literary value and that the people apply their folk critical canons in the appreciation and criticism of these proverbs. Proverbs in African Orature is a highly appropriate work for African Studies scholars, especially those focusing on oral literature.
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About the Author:
Ambrose Adikamkwu Monye is Senior Lecturer at the University of Benin in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Review:
...there is no reason why his rigorous approach based on fundamental field research and theoretical analysis should not be followed by other students and scholars intrigued by the effective use of proverbs in communicative acts...>>>> (Proverbium)
...there is no reason why his rigorous approach based on fundamental field research and theoretical analysis should not be followed by other students and scholars intrigued by the effective use of proverbs in communicative acts... (Proverbium)
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
- PublisherUniversity Press Of America
- Publication date1996
- ISBN 10 0761802444
- ISBN 13 9780761802440
- BindingHardcover
- Edition number1
- Number of pages224