Abstract
M.A.
The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which naming is
used in the development of plot structure, characterization, theme and style
in Ngwana wa Mobu. This technique which is concerned with the
significance of names in literary works is called literary onomastics.
However, characters are given names but more importantly to show their
significance in the development of plot structure, characterization, theme
and style in literary art.
In literary works, choice of names should not be undertaken in random
fashion, but should contribute to the development of the elements of a
genre, for example a novel, as in the case of Ngwana wa Mobu.
The interpretation of names in literary art should assist the readers or
audience to penetrate the meaning of life as a whole and should be
relevant to the portrayal of a particular character.
The afore-mentioned assertion implies that in naming, one is communicating
certain ideas about events. These ideas mirror the cultural background of
a certain community namely the norms, beliefs and values. Hence the
giving of names in African societies is regarded as sacred.
Names should be bestowed on characters with a purpose. Ultimately, the
quality of a narrative would be enhanced by the manner in which the
naming technique is used in a book.