Description
Book SynopsisProverbs 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.
Trade ReviewMonye's book would benefit those interested in reading proverbs drawn from a specific community; the subjects of the proverbs are varied, ranging from the profound to the sexist to the humorous. * Research in African Literatures *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Dedication Part 2 Preface Part 3 Acknowledgements Chapter 4 Literary Background Chapter 5 Oral Literature in Aniocha Chapter 6 Aniocha Proverbs as Literature Chapter 7 Oral Literary Criticism of Aniocha Proverbs Chapter 8 Conclusion Part 9 Appendix Part 10 Bibliography Part 11 Index
