Language as mechanism for cultural reinforcement in Chinua Achebe's Arrouw of God

Abstract

This study examines the language use in Chinua Achebe's "Arrow of God" and how Achebe used adaptively two languages in one literary work. This study analyzes the different materials that enriched the message of Achebe to the world. The objective of this research is to identify the reasons behind using bilingual language in the novel; Igbo language which is Achebe's native language, and English language which represents the colonial mother tongue. Hence, Achebe inserts the African Oral Tradition to enhance Igbo language by contextualizing creatively proverbs, folktales, myths, and lexicon items in his novel. These devices play an important role and give a value for African society, identity, language, and traditions. In one hand, African Oral Traditions give his work aesthetic meaning. On the other hand, they give the African society a voice over the world. And that‟s what makes readers consider Achebe's works as a reference to the Igbo language. Moreover, he used English language in his novel to strengthen his social identity to the worldview. Through some characters Achebe uses English addressing the colonial by their mother tongue. The post-colonial theory is applied in this study to demonstrate the identity of the African society during the colonial period, and shows the struggle between the African and the European culture. Using the descriptive qualitative method also helps in the analysis of the context of the novel. The findings of this study shows that Achebe succeeded to portray the image of Africans and specifically the Nigerian culture and traditions. Also, through the skillful use of language he sheds the light on the importance of language for cultural reinforcement. The unique style of Achebe's writing gives his work a flavor to be read over the world. And for the African culture to be well known.