Semanticity of Akan Proverbs Promoting Unity and Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59573/emsj.7(1).2023.36Keywords:
Akans, Conversation, Depot, Epitome, Emotion, Knowledgeable, PotentialAbstract
This paper examined the semantic principles of the Akan proverbs that are meant to be applicable to all regardless of nationality, heritage, or social standing. Akan proverbs are more than wise sayings. They have a wide range of uses and show, principally, that the user is wise and well-educated in the customs of the Akan people. The ability to use language enriched by proverbs is considered sage and is the hallmark of great public speaking. The design of the study was qualitative and the instruments used for the data collection were interview and direct observation. The investigation was conducted with thirty (30) native speakers in Goaso Municipality. Purposive sample was used to elicit significant information for the analysis. Ethnography of communication theory underpinned the study. In the Ghanaian Akan traditional set up, proverbs are used to express emotions, convey ideas, and provide inspiring, celebratory, and advisory messages. The analysis revealed that proverbs, as linguistic, cultural and spiritual knowledge, are deeply embedded in Ghanaian life and may function as excellent culturally relevant tools for a localized approach to Ghana and for that matter African development. The results again demonstrated that, some Akan proverbs really promote unity and development as well as norms that regulate the individual activities.
Much has been done about Akan proverbs in the areas of emotion regulation, situation selection, child upbringing, anger and sadness, caution, peace, etc., all in the domain of pragmatics. However not much has been done about Akan proverbs in terms of semanticity towards promotion of unity and development. According to contemporary youth it is pointless associating proverbs with development and unity. However, aged embraced the concept as one of the fundamental tools that ensures the development of every community. Because of these two ideologies the researchers have decided to bridge the gap. Proverbs provide one snapshot into contemporary Ghanaian society. This investigation will support the existing literature on proverbs. The paper will decondition mindset of youth which will consequently lead to appreciation of proverbs in Akan setting.
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