Abstract:
The study is about the Gurenɛ riddle which precedes the narration of the folktale in
most instances, among the Farefari people in the Upper-East Region of Ghana. The
study examined the types of riddles, their themes, characteristics, composition and
performance, and their functions as it pertains during the narration of the folktale and
riddles. The riddle is an oral genre performed among the people of the Farefari
society. Riddling serves as a major form of entertainment among the Farefari people
and was performed formerly only in the evening as a means of entertainment at the
homes of members of the community who are storytellers and also at social
gatherings such as at the funeral celebrations of elderly people. The riddle is reputed
to portray the culture and tradition of a people. Its performance invokes a sense of
wisdom, moral teachings, and oneness in cultural issues. It entertains, educates, and
generally transmits a people‟s culture. Its recitation also serves as an effective tool in
the Farefari society for members as they use that medium to educate, socialize, and
equally criticize the wrong doings of members of the community. Riddling promotes
a healthy competition of ideas leading to a peaceful coexistence among members of
the community. The study revealed that riddling is an effective communication tool
that when fully cooperated into the curriculum of the basic schools would enhance
learners‟ ability to grasps concepts faster.
Description:
A Thesis In The Department Of Ghanaian Languages Education Faculty Of Ghanaian Languages Education, Submitted To The School Of Graduate Studies, University Of Education Winneba, In Partial Fulfilment Of The Requirements For The Award Of Master Of Philosophy In Ghanaian Language Studies (Gurenɛ) Degree
DECEMBER, 2018