Figurative Language in Fables among the Banyole.

Abstract

The case study here in present the analysis on figurative language in the selected lunyole fables exhibiting how they are employed in different stories that are to be looked in later chapters. The study explores the cultural and linguistic significance of figurative expressions within the context of Lunyole storytelling. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing content analysis as the primary methods. A selection of Lunyole fables is collected from oral traditions and written sources, and these stories are then examined for the presence and types of figurative language used. The findings of the study reveal a rich and diverse range of figurative language in Lunyole stories, including metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole. These figurative expressions are deeply rooted in the cultural and natural surroundings of the balunyole community, reflecting their beliefs, traditions, and experiences. The analysis of the figurative language also highlights the creativity and ingenuity of the language. Metaphors are found to be extensively used to convey abstract concepts, cultural values, and moral lessons, while similes enhance descriptions and create vivid imagery. Personification is utilized to attribute human qualities to animals, objects, or natural phenomena, enabling a deeper understanding of their symbolic significance. Hyperbole is also employed to exaggerate and emphasize certain aspects of the narratives, adding humor and rhetorical impact. And simile which adds layers of meaning, evokes imagery, and create a vivid and engaging narrative experience for the audience. The research methodology includes a qualitative analysis of the fables, employing a descriptive and interpretive approach. A corpus of Lunyole fables was collected from traditional oral sources and written texts, and a rigorous examination of their figurative elements was conducted. Various linguistic and literary techniques were employed to identify and classify the figurative language instances, followed by an in-depth exploration of their underlying meanings and purposes. This dissertation contributes to the understanding of figurative language in Lunyole fables, shedding light on its cultural, linguistic, and aesthetic dimensions. It serves as a resource for scholars and the diverse forms of expression found within Lunyole storytelling.