NOVEL AS A PRAGMATIC APPROACH TO SECURITY OF LIVES AND PROPERTIES IN THE SOCIETY AS EVIDENCED IN ỤKPANA OKPOKO BUURU

Abstract

Security is the condition of not being threatened in life especially physcially, psychologically, emotionally or financially. Pragmantic is concerned with dealing practically with situations rather than theoritcal considerations. The aim of this study is  to analyze the Igbo novel as a pragmatic approach to security of lives and properties. The objective of the study was to examine the pragmatic approach to security in the society as evidenced in Ụkpana Okpoko buuru. The study adopted descriptive survey design. Expert purposive sampling technique was used to select Ụkpana Okpoko buuru for the study. Content observation or intent reading of the text related to the subject matter was used to collect the primary data for the study. Secondary data was sourced through the internet and other sources. The data was analyzed using Austin’s Speech Act Theory as the theoritical framework. The study revealed that the author showcased theme of pragmatism in his novel. Lives and properties were secured through the pragmatic approach applied by Obijiọfọ and his family in the novel, and peace was restored. The study concluded that literature is a mirror of society. Pragmatic approach against the culprit characters in the novel can also be applied to help to secure lives and properties in the society.