A Cognitive Approach to the Functions of Figurative Language in the Circumcision Songs of the Achuka People of Kenya
Abstract
This study analyses the figurative language used in the Gichuka circumcision songs and its functions. The study adopts a Cognitive approach. The Conceptual Metaphor Theory provides a window into the Gichuka figurative language. The classification of the figurative language is given and the figures of speech which are presented as conceptual metaphors, are classified according to their conventionality and unconventionality. Conventionality gives rise to the cognitive functions of these metaphors, which are ontological, structural and orientational. The Conceptual Metaphor Theory is used to bring out source to target mappings, which present a rich cultural background of a Muchuka. Physical and cultural environment is used as a source domain for the target, circumcision process, where the functions of the figures of speech are brought out. This helps to reveal that our system is metaphorically structured. The mappings also reveal the functions which are elaborately explained and figures of speech such as: personification, symbolism, euphemism, and synecdoche are brought out effortlessly via construal. The findings are presented in line with the recommendations and conclusions
Publisher
University of Nairobi
Rights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United StatesUsage Rights
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/3.0/us/Collections
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