Language in Society

Table of Contents - 2004 - Volume 33, Issue 03  


Ntam ‘reminiscential oath’ taboo in Akan

KOFI  AGYEKUM  a1
a1 Department of Linguistics, University of Ghana, P.O. Box 61, Legon-Accra, Ghana, kofiagyekum@hotmail.com

Article author query
agyekum k   [PubMed][Google Scholar] 

Abstract

Ntam ‘reminiscential oath’ among the Akan of Ghana is a commissive form that has statutory force. In it, the oath-taker evokes the memory of historical events that are dangerous and unpleasant to mention. The statutory force of the oath is accomplished by the evocation of these memories in the community which shares them. This article reviews the types of ntam oaths, the contexts for their use, and their structure.

(Received February 20 2001)
(Accepted October 16 2002)


Key Words: Ntam oath; Akan verbal taboo; face threat; commissives.