Background of the study
Folklore is a cornerstone of cultural expression, deeply embedded in the linguistic practices of a community. In Anambra, the Igbo language is enriched by folklore, which shapes the semantic structures through proverbs, myths, and traditional narratives. This study assesses how folklore influences semantic organization in Igbo by analyzing recurring motifs, metaphorical expressions, and culturally loaded vocabulary (Okafor, 2023). Folkloric elements often imbue words with layers of meaning that are contextually understood within the community, contributing to a distinctive semantic framework. Fieldwork involving recorded storytelling sessions, interviews with elders, and textual analysis of traditional narratives reveals that folklore not only preserves cultural memory but also dynamically influences contemporary language use (Chinwe, 2024). By examining these interactions, the study aims to reveal how traditional semantic structures are maintained or modified in response to cultural transmission, offering insights into both language preservation and evolution. This research contributes to broader discussions on the interplay between culture and language, emphasizing the importance of folklore in sustaining semantic richness and community identity (Ibekwe, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Although folklore significantly shapes semantic structures in Igbo, systematic research on this influence in Anambra is limited. Preliminary findings suggest that modern influences may be diluting traditional semantic patterns, thereby threatening cultural continuity. This study aims to document and analyze the extent of folklore’s impact on semantic structures and address challenges in cultural preservation.
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it uncovers the vital role of folklore in maintaining semantic integrity in Igbo. Its findings will assist cultural custodians, educators, and linguists in developing methods to preserve traditional meanings amid modernization.
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to examining the influence of folklore on semantic structures in the Igbo language in Anambra. It does not extend to other cultural or linguistic aspects.
Definitions of terms
Chapter One: Introduction
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