Abstract
M.A. (Afrikaans)
The particular manner in which N.P. van Wyk Louw makes use of the adjective in his
work RAKA, soon becomes evident to the reader. The grammatical approach taken
in this study endeavours to emphasise the manner in which, and the frequency with
which the adjective is applied as well as its functional relationship within the
structure of the text. Lexical relationships involving the adjective in this
specificwork serve as a basis upon which this study has been formulated.
Initially" adjectives in the mentioned work have been identified from a
theoretical point of view.
Further more the nature" of the syntagmatic and paradigmatic relationships are
examined against the background of their potential to function as lexical cohesive
elements within the specific textual context.
Particular attention is given to the colour adjective owing to the frequency of
its use in the work. The study reveals the important role of the colour adjective
in the text: Areas of different semantic representation are drawn together,
important structural elements of character, time and place are identified while
the importance of changing character perspectives are manifested by the
functioning of this type of adjective.
Adjectives other than colour adjectives are subjected to analysis in terms of
syntagmatic and paradigmatic relations established in the text. This study
emphasises the significance of the cohesive role played by the adjective in the
macrostructure of the text.
Lastly, it can be concluded that while this study has concentrated on grammatical
research, students of literature will benefit from a literary study of the
adjective in RAKA.