INTERROGATING THE APPLICATION OF PROVERBS AS A COMMUNICATION TOOL IN BARCLAYS AYOKOROMA'S: A CHANCE TO SURVIVE

Abstract

Abstract The importance of proverbs in African cosmology cannot be underestimated as it plays multifunctional roles. It is used in teaching, communication, writing, molding and modifying characters as well as social interactions. Proverbs are veritable instrument for dramatists, novelists and story tellers in their craft of playwriting. Proverbs play important role in the preservation of our cultures and cultural heritage, thus, keeping it from extinction. The aim of this work is to examine the use of proverbs and their contextual meaning in Barclays Ayokoroma's, A Chance to Survive with a view to locating the multifunctional roles of proverbs in communication, teaching ethics, norms, values and cultural heritage. The research uses the content analysis approach of the qualitative research methodology. The result of the analysis shows that the Playwright used proverbs to convey his messages as the lessons were efficient, instructive, motivating and appealing. The study recommends for trainings, workshops and seminars to aspiring writers to emphasize the use of proverbs, not only as a writing tool but for the preservation of our cultural values.