Socio-dramatic transition of language use in the plays of Ola Rotimi

Abstract

Literary language in African writing makes for interesting study because of the linguistic nuances and flavour of the indigenous African language of its author that finds creative expression in English. How language is used in dramatic communication is a subject of serious intellectual debate. This study, through the textual analysis of some play-texts, which are constructed on the didactic and eclectic nature of theatre and the society, is a  reflection on the socio-dramatic transition of language use in the plays of Ola Rotimi. The discussion will  identify, conceptualise and re-think some major forms, styles and patterns of language use in the plays of Ola Rotimi. Given the theatrical, dramatic, literary dividends and effectiveness of Rotimi’s works, this study  concludes by calling on budding playwrights and dramatists in Africa to emulate/imitate/learn from re-thought language forms, styles and “linguistic possibilities” in the plays of Ola Rotimi as they experiment with  language use in the African theatre.

Keywords: African theatre, language use, Ola Rotimi, play directing, socio-dramatic, transition