Abstract
M.A.
Although Southern-Sotho proverbs and riddles have appeared in many publications, seemingly imagery in these genres has not been analysed or described in depth. The purpose of this study is to discuss imagery as evoked by figurative language in Southern-Sotho proverbs and riddles. Chapter one is a general overview of the study of proverbs and riddles already studied in Southern-Sotho and other Sotho languages. Studies of these two genres by other languages such as Zulu, English and Afrikaans are considered. In chapter two, a broad definition of imagery is attempted. Literal, perceptual and conceptual imagery are explained by means of Southern-Sotho examples. This chapter includes the function of imagery. Examples of how imagery employs the senses are also given. The chapter is concluded by mentioning the types of figures of speech which evoke imagery in Southern-Sotho proverbs and riddles. The proverb is defined in chapter three and imagery in proverbs is identified by examples with their literal and figurative meaning. Proverbs are found to employ more figures of speech as compared to riddles. Chapter four deals with imagery in riddles. The riddle is defined and types of imagery are illustrated by means of examples and their figurative meaning. Chapter five contains a general conclusion on the findings of the study of imagery in Southern-Sotho proverbs and riddles. This chapter includes a bibliography.