The Arrow and the Bird: Proverbs in the Solution of Hausa Conjugal-Conflicts

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Hymes' "ethnography of speech" provides the framework for the analysis of the use of proberbs in a Hausa-type situation, conjugal-conflict. Bateson's concept of "frame" is used to highlight what is a predictable and socially significant event with deeper cultural implications; namely, socioculturally determined male/female hostility. There are a number of proverbs used by Hausa spouses to exert control over situations of conjugal conflict. "The bird flies and so does the arrow. Someday they'll meet!" is a favorite one used by wives to taunt philandering husbands. A study of a representative sample of proverbs used in conjugal-conflict situations reveals prevailing attitudes toward marriage and marital conflicts by Hausa husbands and wives. These values are analyzed in the wider context of Hausa culture and society. Gluckman's "rites of rebellion" concept helps explain the conjugal-conflict situation. It preserves the system while providing an emotional outlet. The proverbs used in structuring the situation are symbols since they are used in place of other behavior and have connotative meaning. They are also used to gain power. Consequently, they provide an excellent means for studying the relationship between symbols and power. Finally, suggestions for extending the study are presented, beginning with the more ethnographic and extending to the more theoretical.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: