Background of the study
Traditional Hausa folktales, rich in cultural narratives and symbolic language, rely on distinctive morphological markers to convey meaning and emotion. This study appraises the use of such markers—such as affixation, reduplication, and compounding—in Hausa folktales collected from Kano. These morphological markers serve not only to embellish storytelling but also to preserve historical and social knowledge. Previous research has noted that folktales often employ a higher degree of morphological creativity compared to everyday speech (Aminu, 2023). In Kano, where oral traditions are passed down through generations, the strategic use of morphological markers is integral to maintaining the aesthetic and mnemonic qualities of narratives (Suleiman, 2024). The study will analyze recorded folktales to identify recurring morphological patterns and assess their functions in enhancing narrative impact. By comparing traditional markers with contemporary usage, the research aims to determine whether these features have remained stable or undergone change due to external influences such as education and media (Mustapha, 2025). This investigation contributes to the broader understanding of how language functions as a repository of cultural identity and heritage.
Statement of the problem
Although morphological markers are central to the structure of traditional Hausa folktales, there is limited systematic research on their specific usage and functions in Kano. Observations suggest that while these markers enrich the narratives, modern influences may be diluting traditional forms (Aminu, 2023). The lack of detailed documentation on morphological marker usage hinders efforts to preserve these cultural expressions and impedes the development of effective teaching materials for language and cultural studies (Suleiman, 2024). A comprehensive analysis of these markers is necessary to understand their role in storytelling and to ensure the continued transmission of Hausa cultural heritage (Mustapha, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To document the morphological markers used in traditional Hausa folktales.
To analyze the functions of these markers in narrative structure.
To compare traditional usage with contemporary trends.
Research questions:
What morphological markers are predominant in Hausa folktales?
How do these markers enhance narrative meaning?
What changes, if any, have occurred in their usage over time?
Research Hypotheses:
Traditional morphological markers are integral to the structure of Hausa folktales.
Modern influences have led to a measurable shift in marker usage.
The use of markers correlates with enhanced narrative cohesion.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it documents the morphological richness of Hausa folktales, providing essential insights for cultural preservation and language education. The findings will support efforts to maintain and transmit traditional storytelling practices (Aminu, 2023; Mustapha, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to analyzing morphological markers in traditional Hausa folktales in Kano. It focuses exclusively on narrative morphology without addressing other literary elements.
Definitions of terms:
Morphological Markers: Linguistic elements that indicate grammatical or semantic information.
Folktales: Traditional stories that convey cultural values and heritage.
Hausa: An indigenous language spoken in Northern Nigeria.
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