Irony in selected Iteso folk tales

Abstract

This study investigates the different forms of irony in Ateso folktales and does whim to explore how performers use irony as a means to create meaning in Ateso folktales to their audience. This document looks at the different forms of irony including; verbal irony, dramatic irony, and situational irony, which have been identified in each tale and given its effectiveness. The research was interviews based and a spotted number of elders from the Teso land in the eastern part of Uganda were interviewed.The process of data collection mostly involved recording and scripting of the interview conversations. The results of the discussion are to show how irony leads to the development of the themes which are significant of lesson development and thus morals frm which society must thrive. It is true that there are other forms that Ateso folktales employ like imagery, symbolism however the effect of the irony seems more reliable in conveying the message of the tale. The study derived that irony creates meaning in Ateso folktales because these folktales among other narratives and forms of oral literature play a didactic role that shapes society. The major forms of irony include; Dramatic irony, verbal and situational irony all of which result to the themes of the tale.