Stylistics of violence: Incendiary diction in select plays of Esiaba Irobi

Abstract

The engaging nature of Esiaba Irobi's drama beyond the warps, wefts and intricacies of Igbo ritual and Western performance indices and adventurous theatre syncretism, is most importantly for a linguist and language artist, hinged on his deft manipulation of diction to accompany his stage and mime craft. Using the textual approach of literary stylistics specifically, this paper examines his often explosive and combative use of words that galvanize characters and actors and also excite the mind. His style with language has been found to be the distinguishing quality of his literary creations that enables them produce lasting and memorable effects as he vigorously pushes for change and a better society.