Abstract:
Wellerisms as variants of proverbs in African oral literature have gained much attention
and have been explored by scholars in many languages of the African society.
Wellerism proverbs are said to be a common and interesting phenomenon in African
languages, claimed to be the preserve of collective traditional wisdom of the
community. That is, they are attributed to the wisdom of the elders of the community.
Just like a normal proverb does, the wellerism is said to be a powerful tool of
University of Education,Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh
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communication; they are basically infused in discourse by speakers. Proverbs serve as
salt, flavouring the speeches of a speech community. In this study therefore, we
examined some themes and aesthetic qualities of the Dagaaba wellerisms which have
been least studied. We discussed the meaning and concept of proverbs and wellerisms,
as well as the roles and authorship of proverb. The characteristics of Dagaaba
wellerisms are delineated. We also examined the sentential structure and some thematic
classifications of Dagaaba wellerism proverbs. Also, the aesthetic qualities associated
with the use of wellerisms among the Dagaaba are unveiled. It is evident in the study
that wellerisms form an integral part of the Dagaaba culture. That is, they are used in
their day-to-day communication, not merely for pleasure or to entertain, but to reflect
and contribute to their way of life, which form a strong basis for community ties.
Description:
A Thesis in the Department of Gur-Gonja Education, Faculty of Ghanaian Languages
Education, submitted to the School of Graduate Studies, University of
Education, Winneba, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of
Master of Philosophy
Degree in Ghanaian Language Studies (Dagaare).
SEPTEMBER, 2023