Application of the Conceptual Metaphor Theory in the Analysis of Word Metaphors: A Case of Wamitilas Plays

Abstract

Metaphors are an ambiguous and complex genre in Kiswahili Literature which slips into the forms of other literary genres and figurative language. This is potrayed in their definitions and manner of classification. Although metaphors are classified as a genre of sayings in Kiswahili oral literature their use goes above and below the saying. Kyallo Waddi Wamitila is one of the scholars of literature who besides having classified metaphors has also written literary works including plays. In his plays, words have been used to convey information metaphorically in context. This article shows the application of the conceptual metaphor theory in the analysis of word metaphors in Wamitilas plays. Though there are also other types of metaphors based on genre and use of figurative language such as play metaphors, narrative metaphors, poetic metaphors, songs, conversational metaphors, proverbial metaphors, simile metaphors, metonymy and quibbles. Keywords: metaphor, word, conceptual