The Functional Analysis of Nuer Folktales in Gambella Region with Reference to Wantowa Woreda

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to examin the falktales used for social- economic function in Gambella region with specific reference to Wantowa woreda. To achieve this objective, interview and focus group discussion were used to collect the data from 25 elders selected from six kebeles using purposive sampling on the basis of their knowledge of Nuer folktales and oral traditions.These instruments were chosen because they appear to be the most practical for gathering data considering the majority of the community's elders are illiterate.  The data gathgered were translated into English and analyzed using a qualitative thematic content analysis approach. The study showed that folktales are narrated for different functions in Nuer people of the area. To this fact, it was found that folktales are used for communicating various social aspects of their life. In addition, it was found that folktales can contribute for economic transaction among the society. Moreover, it was pointed that a single folktale can be used for multiple purposes in the Nuer people of the study area. Finally, the researcher recommends that folktales should be: incorporated in Educational Curriculum of the region in detail, promoted by the regional government using various social and mainstream Media and further researcher should be done on the area.

Keywords: Folktales, Wantowa Woreda, Socio‑economic, Functional Analysis

DOI: 10.7176/HRL/55-03

Publication date: April 30^th 2024