Proverbs: A Strategy for Resolving Conflict in Yoruba Society

In this paper, proverbs are defined as a rich source of imagery and succinct expression, encapsulating abstract ideas and allusive wording, usually in metaphorical form. As in many parts of the world, the Yoru¤ba´ holds proverbs in high esteem because they are regarded as the wisdom lore of the society. Yoru¤ba´ elders constitute the repository of the traditional intelligence, logic and verbal or oral wit. Proverbs can occur in various contexts but they seem to be particularly important in situations where there are conflicts and some obligations. The reconciliatory effect is one of the prescriptive functions of proverbs in Yoru¤ba´ society as exemplified in this paper. Any kind of penetrating comment on behaviour may be made in the form of a proverb and used to warn or advise or bring someone to his senses. Therefore, whenever the appropriate proverb is presented to the parties in dispute, the tensions that are inherent in such relationships are controlled through the use of elliptical proverbial speech.