The form and function of symbolism in the Lango proverbial expressions about morals

Abstract

This study aimed at assessing the form and function of symbolism in Lango proverbial expressions about morals in the Lango speech through these objectives; i) To educate the Lango about the value of their proverbs basing on its form and function symbolically., ii) ii) To examine the meaning and function of the symbolic expressions among the Lango proverbs., iii) To identify the context under which those symbolic expression is used in the proverbs., iv) To compile in lango language and translate to English ....... proverbs about morals. The study was descriptive and used both quantitative and qualitative data. Qualitative data was obtained from questionnaires and Focused Group Discussions while quantitative data was obtained from questionnaires, analyzed and presented numerically in form of figures. Research findings revealed that Lango proverbs promote morals; they are the pillar of virtues and they correspond to different aspects of life like sounding a caution or warning, giving knowledge and experiences, cooperation, domestic affairs, and characters. The challenge is that these proverbs are not documented and are not being used. Recommendations were provided that the parents, cultural leaders and the Government of Uganda must see to it that teaching and learning of Leblango (proverbs) must be emphasized in all institutions of the society like homes, early child development centers, primary schools, social clubs including documentation of these proverbs with their meanings and usage. The young generation should take it upon themselves to value and preserve Lango proverbs for the future generation of the lango cultural heritage.