A study of the relationship between the form, functions and figurative meaning of Kisamia proverbs

Abstract

This study deals with the relationship that exists between the form, functions and figurative meaning of Kisamia proverbs. The research has the following objectives: to show how the figurative meaning of Kisamia proverbs is realized through the analysis of the linguistic form and functions of the proverbs ; to highlight the use of figurative devices in Kisamia proverbs ; and finally to classify Kisamia proverbs on the basis of social and communicative functions. This project is based on the stylopragmatic model which is derived from both the stylistics and pragmatics fields of study. The researcher will use participant observation and interviews to collect proverbs from Kisamia speakers. The findings of the study show that Kisamia proverbs can be classified on the basis of functions into the following groups: cautionary proverbs, unity proverbs, gender proverbs, kinship proverbs, social decadence proverbs and hospitality proverbs. Furthermore, the discussion of the research findings reveal that the conveyed meaning in Kisamia proverbs is closely linked to the linguistic form and functions of the proverbs as had been hypothesized. In addition, the researcher also found out that the use of figurative devices was an integral part of Kisamia proverbs.