Functions of Artifactual Code as Non-Verbal Communication in Yoruba Novels

Abstract

Non-verbal communication is a wordless form of communication whereby a message is initiated from a source and channeled through a medium to a receiver who receives processes and decodes the information. Artifactual code is a form of non-verbal communication used in body adornment which has received less attention by scholars especially in Yorùbá novels. This paper filled the gap as it examined the functions of artifactual code as a form of non-verbal communication in Yorùbá novels, the contexts in which it operates with a view to establishing its communicative value. This study is grounded on the theory of semiotics. The major elements of semiotics applied are symbol and index. However, eight Yorùbá novels were purposively selected as sample and classified into three categories by this researcher for the purpose of this study. Also, the form of non-verbal code identified in the novels which is artifactual code is situated in four contexts, namely, social, religious, political and cultural contexts. This enhanced the semiotic functions performed by the novels.

Key words: Artifactual code; Yorùbá novels; Symbol; Index; Semiotics