Major Symbols In Selected Amharic Novels
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Date
2002-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze symbols frequently
employed in ten Amharic novels of six pre and post revolution of 1974 writers.
The study attempts to investigate the similarities and differences that exist
between the writers in their use of symbols.
A detailed discussion of the term symbol is presented in order to have a
theoretical framework that would provide insight into the meaning of symbol.
Symbols identified in the novels are collected, categorized and analyzed in the
context of the novels. The main finding of the research is that the writers
mostly use universal and public symbols. These symbols are employed to
develop the theme of the novels, to portray the mental state of the characters,
in a way that they strengthen the theme of the novels. The writers usually use
to foreshadow events that will happen in the lives of the main characters. The
writers of the pre-revolution period expose the suppressions and evils of the
feudal system as well as its corruption. They criticize and satarize some
aspects of the traditions of the feudal lords, while in the novels set in post
revolution period the writers glorify the revolution and belittle the feudal
system.
Finally it is recommended that further in-depth research, on the subject should
be conducted. Besides, the works of writers that are not included in this study
and other new writers should be studied deeply to know the archetypal
symbols of Ethiopian writers and the trends that are seen in the use of
symbols.
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Keywords
Amharic Novels