ABSTRACT
This research work is concerned with the ethno-linguistic analysis of coronation in Benin. A case study of Obas coronation in the Benin kingdom. This research focuses on the detailed account of the coronation processes, how language and culture interact, also another major purpose of this research is to investigate the Ethnography of communication aspects of the coronation ceremony of the Binis, and investigate its linguistic significance. The study also aims to depict the beauty and heritage of language and culture and how this influenced the making of a new king.
The framework of this project is built on the SPEAKING MODEL in Hymes (1964) Ethnography of communication. The theories helped analyze the communication patterns of social events. The major method of data collection was interviews with key participants in the coronation ceremony.
The project opens with a brief historical account of the history, origin and development of the Benin kingdom and its monarchy, the Ogiso and Obaship era, the layout of the power structure of the kingdom which facilitates effective governance. In addition, the importance of the Oba as a symbol of the cultural and traditional heritage of the people.
In the preceding chapter, the Coronation of the Oba is examined. This chapter gives a very systematic account of the processes involved in the Coronation Ceremony. The chapter also shows some rich traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation from one Oba reign to another.
Lastly this project is closed with findings, conclusion and recommendation of this research work.
