Thematic and aesthetic analysis of Dagaaba wellerisms

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 xii 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.