Semantic deviation in Iraqw oral poerty.

Abstract

This study deals with the stylistic devices characterizing semantic deviation in Iragw oral poetry. It also treats semantic parallelism as a subset of semantic deviation. The study identifies the devices and critically analyses their literary significance. The work is organised into five chapters. Chapter one is the introductory part. It states the socio-historical background of the Iraqw people whose oral poetry is the object of this study. The statement of the problem, objectives of the study, the review of literature, and the methodology are also included in this chapter. Chapter two three, and four consist of the analysis of the text. Chapter two focuses on the stylistic devices of semantic deviation as revealed by the semantic structure of individual words. The devices which fall under this category are metaphor, metonymy, polysemy and homonymy. The analysis reveals that only metaphor and metonymy are used by the poet as stylistic devices. These devices are thoroughly and critically analysed in this chapter. It is found that the poet manipulated the environment in which he lives in creating metaphorical images. Chapter three deals with stylistic devices of semantic deviation as reflected by semantic relations between words. The devices expected in this category were synonymy, antonymy, hyponymy and incompatibility. The study reveals that only synonymy is found in the text. This type of device is widely covered in this chapter. The other devices which do not appear in the text are not discussed. It is found that the synonyms appearing in the text result from two sources. These are the loan words from the Barbaig and synonyms resulting from euphemism. Chapter four analyses semantic parallelism as a subset of semantic deviation. Semantic parallelism consists of the pattern of equivalence or similarities and the pattern of contrast. These patterns are the basis of identification. Semantic parallelism enhance memorability and comprehension. This being the case, therefore, semantic parallelism constitute one of the most important stylistic devices in oral poetry. Chapter five summarises the findings and provides suggestions on the areas which need further research. The chapter ends with the conclusion.