An examination of topicalization strategies in Hausa language among traditional storytellers in Kano
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Background of the study
Topicalization is a pivotal syntactic strategy that rearranges sentence elements to emphasize particular topics. In the Hausa language, especially among traditional storytellers in Kano, topicalization is used to foreground culturally significant information and enhance narrative engagement (Bukar, 2023). This study examines how traditional storytellers employ topicalization to structure their narratives and convey intricate cultural meanings. The unique oral traditions of Kano involve dynamic storytelling practices where syntactic strategies are integral to performance and audience interaction (Salihu, 2024). Recent linguistic analyses suggest that topicalization not only influences the flow of discourse but also reinforces social hierarchies and cultural values inherent in the narrative (Yusuf, 2025). Through a comprehensive analysis of recorded storytelling sessions and interviews, the research explores the various forms of topicalization, such as fronting and clefting, used in traditional Hausa narratives. By delving into these strategies, the study aims to elucidate the interplay between syntax and culture, thereby contributing to both linguistic theory and the preservation of indigenous storytelling traditions.
Statement of the problem
Current literature on Hausa syntax rarely focuses on the topicalization strategies employed by traditional storytellers in Kano. While topicalization is recognized as a powerful discourse tool, there is limited empirical evidence regarding its specific forms and functions in oral narratives. Preliminary observations suggest that the strategic rearrangement of sentence elements can vary widely among storytellers, leading to inconsistencies in narrative emphasis and audience comprehension. This study addresses the need for a detailed syntactic analysis to identify the common patterns and deviations in topicalization. Understanding these patterns is essential for preserving the rich oral traditions of Hausa storytelling and for informing broader discussions on language and culture.
Objectives of the study
- To analyze topicalization strategies in Hausa oral narratives.
- To identify common syntactic patterns used by traditional storytellers.
- To evaluate the cultural significance of topicalization in narrative construction.
Research questions
- What topicalization strategies are most commonly used in Hausa storytelling?
- How do these strategies affect narrative emphasis and cultural transmission?
- What are the variations in topicalization among different storytellers?
Significance of the study
This research is significant as it sheds light on an underexplored area of Hausa syntax. Its findings will aid in the documentation and preservation of traditional storytelling methods, providing valuable insights for linguists, cultural historians, and educators (Abdullahi, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to examining topicalization strategies in Hausa narratives among traditional storytellers in Kano. It does not extend to other narrative strategies or regions.
Definitions of terms
- Topicalization: A syntactic process that moves a constituent to the front of a sentence to highlight its importance.
- Oral Narrative: A spoken form of storytelling that conveys cultural and historical information.
- Storyteller: An individual who narrates traditional stories, often orally transmitting cultural heritage.
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