GENDER AND POWER RELATIONS IN THE LANGUAGE OF SINO- AFRICAN PROVERBS: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

Okoye Chinenye Loyce

Abstract


Language is an important tool with which ideologies are transmitted in a society. Proverbs which form an integral part of society provide the means by which gender- based power relations are embedded in different societies. The paper analyses proverbs but with particular focus on Igbo and Chinese proverbs as discourse forms. The paper identifies and describes the discourse topics in Igbo and Chinese proverbs while showing gendered power relation and social control embedded in them. Data consisted of Igbo and Chinese proverbs which were randomly collected from individuals (Igbo and Chinese) and published literature texts.  The varieties selected deal with male/ female relationships on themes such as family, marriage, intelligence, equality, beauty etc. The data were analyzed descriptively after which inferences and conclusions were arrived at. The theoretical framework adopted derives from critical discourse analysis (CDA) approach to establish the facts that from time past women have been at the receiving end of subjugation and dominance. Language use in the form of myth, fable and proverbs has been used by the male to perpetrate the odious acts of subjugation in different cultures and societies. The discussion in this paper will help in showing Igbo and Chinese cultures and beliefs in the use of language especially proverbs. It will also go a long way in contributing to the quest for gender equality/balance and enhance intercultural communication in the Sino-Nigerian relations.


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