Exploring Ubuntu in Benin and Yoruba Cultures: A Sociolinguistic Study of Proverbs, Myths, and Superstitions in the Selected Cross-Cultural Nigerian Novels

Abstract

This work is a sociolinguistic study that explores Ubuntu via linguistic devices (proverbs, myths, and superstitions) in select cross-cultural Nigerian novels. The novels used for this study are Imagine This, and Oloi: A Queen Shrouded in Mystery. Despite the plethora of papers on the use of these linguistic devices in the works of African indigenous writers, there is a paucity of literature examining the use of Yoruba and Benin proverbs, superstitions, and myths to portray Ubuntu in novels. The purpose of this study is to prove that the concept of Ubuntu is replicated in the culture of the Yoruba, and Benin peoples via their linguistic devices. The population for this study is the proverbs, myths and superstitions contained in the two novels. Purposive sampling was used in selecting the linguistic devices that were subsequently analysed qualitatively. Expository research approach was used in identifying and analysing the linguistic devices used to communicate Ubuntu. The research was anchored on Samkange’s theory of Ubuntu. It was discovered that Ubuntu is indeed a recurring concept in the Yoruba, and Benin cultures. The study concluded that a basic understanding of the concept of Ubuntu by readers of Nigerian literature is essential for the holistic appreciation of the proverbs, myths, and superstitions employed by novelists. More research should be carried out to improve the reader’s understanding of linguistic devices employed by African writers in their literary works.