Literary analysis of selected Dangme War Songs

Abstract

This thesis is a literary study of Dangme war songs. The work discussed the structure, themes, and style in some Dangme war songs. The research discussed the aesthetic values of these war songs among the people of Ada. Both primary and secondary data were sourced for the analysis. The primary data collection was obtained through recording and personal consultations and observations. The secondary data were souced from documents which have some war songs in print. The study revealed that there are various themes embedded in Dangme war songs that point or at least make reference to the history, religion, and culture as well as the harmonies and tensions within the Dangme society from which these songs were drawn. It also came to light that most Dangme war songs are structurally composed in single stanzas with lines ranging from four to twelve lines. The number of words per line ranges from two to eight. The study revealed also that Dangme war songs are styled in simple and compound sentences and full of repetitions, metaphors, symbolism, parallelisms, repetition among others that help to communicate clear messages and intents of the warriors. It also demonstrated that the war songs of the Dangme people fall into three categories; preparatory, operational, and celebrative songs which are cornerstones in boosting the warriors’ morale. It is hoped that this work will add up to the existing literature on the Dangme language and also serve as a great resource material for learners and teachers of language and literature, especially Dangme.