Background of the Study
Modern Nigerian novels represent a rich tapestry of syntactic experimentation, reflecting the linguistic diversity and creative expression of contemporary writers. Syntactic patterns in literature reveal not only the structural choices made by authors but also mirror broader cultural and ideological shifts (Obi, 2023). In modern Nigerian novels, writers often blend formal literary language with colloquial and indigenous syntactic features to create narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. This study investigates the syntactic constructions found in selected novels, examining aspects such as sentence structure, clause integration, and the use of non-standard syntactic forms. Such analysis provides insights into how authors negotiate the tension between tradition and modernity, and how syntactic innovation contributes to character development and thematic expression (Uzo, 2024). By employing both qualitative discourse analysis and comparative techniques, the research aims to map out recurring syntactic patterns and their functions within narrative contexts. The study not only contributes to literary criticism but also to the broader field of sociolinguistics by exploring how language structures in literature reflect societal transformations (Nwachukwu, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing body of modern Nigerian literature, there is limited systematic research on the syntactic patterns employed by contemporary novelists. Existing literary critiques often focus on thematic and stylistic aspects, overlooking the structural linguistic choices that underpin narrative construction (Ifeoma, 2023). This gap hinders a comprehensive understanding of how syntactic variations shape reader interpretation and reflect cultural identities. Without detailed syntactic analysis, it is challenging to appreciate the full complexity of modern literary expression and its implications for language evolution. This study aims to address this deficiency by examining the syntactic patterns in modern Nigerian novels and assessing their contribution to literary aesthetics and cultural discourse (Chima, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it bridges literary analysis and linguistics by uncovering the syntactic structures that underpin modern Nigerian novels. The insights will benefit literary critics, linguists, and educators by providing a deeper understanding of language use in literature and its reflection of cultural dynamics (Obi, 2023; Uzo, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to the syntactic analysis of modern Nigerian novels.
Definitions of Terms
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