CHAPITRE 2

 

Chapter 2: Theoretical Framework

 

2.1 The theory of transitivity

 

The theory of transitivity, as proposed by Halliday (1973), is a key component of systemic functional linguistics. It provides a framework for analyzing how meaning is constructed in a sentence, focusing on the relationship between the verb (process) and the participants involved in the process (Halliday, 1973). This theory is particularly useful in literary analysis as it allows us to examine how authors use language to represent their experience of the world.

 

2.1.1 Clause

 

In the context of transitivity theory, a clause is considered the basic unit of meaning. It is through the structure of the clause that we can identify the process (verb), the participants (subjects and objects), and any circumstantial elements (adverbials). For example, in the sentence "Alaba broke the globe", "Alaba" is the participant, "broke" is the process, and "the globe" is the participant affected by the process.

 

2.1.2 Transitivity patterns

 

Transitivity patterns, as proposed by Halliday (1973), are a crucial part of systemic functional linguistics. They provide a framework for understanding how meaning is constructed in a sentence, focusing on the relationship between the verb (process) and the participants involved in the process. There are six main types of transitivity patterns:

 

1. Material: These involve concrete actions or events. The participant (Actor) carries out some sort of action that has an effect on another participant (Goal). For example, in the sentence "Alaba broke the globe", "Alaba" is the Actor, "broke" is the process, and "the globe" is the Goal.

 

2. Mental: These involve cognitive processes such as thinking, feeling, or perceiving. The participant (Senser) undergoes some sort of internal process that is directed towards another participant (Phenomenon). For example, in the sentence "Alaba feels guilty", "Alaba" is the Senser, "feels" is the process, and "guilty" is the Phenomenon.

 

3. Relational: These establish relationships between participants. The participant (Carrier) is linked to another participant (Attribute) through some sort of being or having relation. For example, in the sentence "Alaba is a butcher", "Alaba" is the Carrier, "is" is the process, and "a butcher" is the Attribute.

 

4. Behavioral: These involve physiological and psychological behavior. The participant (Behaver) carries out some sort of physiological or psychological behavior. For example, in the sentence "Alaba dreams", "Alaba" is the Behaver and "dreams" is the process.

 

5. Verbal: These involve processes of saying or communicating. The participant (Sayer) communicates something to another participant (Receiver). For example, in the sentence "Alaba says", "Alaba" is the Sayer and "says" is the process.

 

6. Existential: These involve the existence or happening of something. The participant (Existent) is simply stated to exist. For example, in the sentence "There is a scream", "a scream" is the Existent and "is" is the process.

 

In our analysis of "Alapata Apata", we will identify and examine the different transitivity patterns used by Soyinka to understand how he constructs meaning in the text. This will involve creating tables to illustrate the different transitivity patterns present in the text, and discussing how these contribute to our understanding of the characters, themes, and overall narrative.

 

 

    - 2.2 The study of transitivity

        - 2.2.1 The processes and the participants

2.2.1.1 Material Processes

Material processes in literature refer to the actions and events that occur within the narrative. These processes are often physical and tangible, involving characters interacting with their environment or with each other. They are crucial in driving the plot forward and revealing character traits and motivations.

In the context of "Alapata Apata" by Wole Soyinka, material processes are abundant and play a significant role in shaping the narrative. For instance, the act of Alaba considering taking down the signboard is a material process that reveals his concern about the signboard sending the wrong message. Similarly, the scream that wakes Alaba up from his sleep is another material process that sets the stage for the conversation between Alaba and the Teacher.

To illustrate these material processes, we can create a table that lists each process, its occurrence in the text, and its significance in the narrative:

Material Process	Occurrence in Text	Significance
Alaba's consideration of taking down the signboard	Page 56	Reveals Alaba's concern about the signboard's message
The scream that wakes Alaba up	Page 56	Sets the stage for the conversation between Alaba and the Teacher
Alaba's change of clothing in anticipation of the king's visit	Page 156	Highlights Alaba's respect for the king and his desire to present himself well

In the broader context of literature, material processes are a fundamental aspect of narrative construction. They provide the action that propels the story forward and offer insights into characters' thoughts, feelings, and motivations. According to a study by Orlando (2006, as cited in Springer), material processes can also serve to articulate temporal and social alterity, as they often involve objects or actions that are no longer functional or that represent a departure from societal norms.

In conclusion, material processes in "Alapata Apata" serve to drive the narrative forward, reveal character traits and motivations, and articulate themes of temporal and social alterity. They are a crucial aspect of the narrative and offer rich opportunities for analysis and interpretation.

2.2.1.2 Mental Processes

Mental processes in literature refer to the internal cognitive workings of characters that are often expressed through their thoughts, perceptions, and feelings. These processes are crucial in understanding the motivations, attitudes, and emotional states of characters, which in turn shape their actions and interactions within the narrative.

In "Alapata Apata" by Wole Soyinka, mental processes are evident in the characters' introspective moments and their expressed perceptions. For instance, Alaba's recurring thoughts about the broken globe (Page 57) reveal his lingering guilt and regret over his past actions. This mental process not only provides insight into Alaba's character but also serves as a symbolic representation of his perceived failures and their impact on his present state.

Mental processes can be analyzed using various theoretical frameworks. One such approach is cognitive mapping in literary analysis, which involves examining the cognitive structures and processes that underlie the creation and interpretation of literary texts (Cardoso Ermel et al., 2021). This approach can be applied to "Alapata Apata" to explore how the mental processes of characters influence their actions and the overall narrative.

Table 1: Examples of Mental Processes in "Alapata Apata"

Character	Mental Process	Implication
Alaba	Recurring thoughts about the broken globe	Reveals guilt and regret over past actions
Teacher	Perception of the signboard as a landmark	Reflects appreciation for tradition and heritage

2.2.1.3 Behavioural Processes

Behavioural processes in literature pertain to the observable actions and reactions of characters. These processes are often driven by the characters' mental states and can significantly influence the progression of the narrative.

In "Alapata Apata", behavioural processes are manifested in the characters' interactions and responses to various situations. For example, Alaba's decision to change his clothing in anticipation of the king's arrival (Page 156) is a behavioural process that reflects his respect for authority and adherence to social norms.

Behavioural processes can be studied using various approaches, including behavioural analysis in literature, which involves examining characters' actions and reactions within the context of their environment and personal circumstances (Mensah Bonsu et al., 2022). This approach can be used to analyze the behavioural processes in "Alapata Apata" and their implications for the narrative.

Table 2: Examples of Behavioural Processes in "Alapata Apata"

Character	Behavioural Process	Implication
Alaba	Changing clothing in anticipation of the king's arrival	Reflects respect for authority and adherence to social norms

2.2.1.4 Verbal Processes

Verbal processes in literature refer to the spoken words and dialogues of characters. These processes are essential in conveying information, expressing emotions, and driving the narrative.

In "Alapata Apata", verbal processes are prominently featured in the characters' dialogues and discussions. For instance, the conversation between Alaba and the Teacher about the signboard (Page 56) serves to reveal their differing perspectives and to advance the plot.

Verbal processes can be analyzed using various methods, including corpus stylistic analysis, which involves the use of corpus procedures to examine the transitivity of verbal process types in literary texts (Nkansah & Bonsu, 2022). This approach can be applied to "Alapata Apata" to explore the role of verbal processes in character development and plot progression.

Table 3: Examples of Verbal Processes in "Alapata Apata"

Character	Verbal Process	Implication
Alaba and Teacher	Conversation about the signboard	Reveals differing perspectives and advances the plot

 

2.2.1.5 Relational Processes

Relational processes in literature are concerned with the relationships between different entities or characters. They can be used to show the status, characteristics, or identities of the characters involved. In the context of "Alapata Apata", relational processes are evident in the interactions between the characters. For example, the relationship between Alaba and the Teacher is one of respect and mutual understanding, as shown in their dialogue. The Teacher's advice and Alaba's willingness to listen and consider it demonstrate a relationship of trust and respect.

Halliday (1994, p.106) explains that relational processes are about being and having. They are used to identify something or to attribute a characteristic to something. In the context of this play, we can see relational processes at work in how the characters identify themselves and others, and how they attribute characteristics to themselves and others.

For instance, in the dialogue between Alaba and the Teacher, Alaba identifies himself as a retired person whose mind travels all over the place. This is a relational process because it attributes a characteristic (being retired and having a wandering mind) to Alaba.

Character	Relational Process	Explanation
Alaba	Identifies himself as a retired person with a wandering mind	This attributes a characteristic to Alaba, showing his current state of being
Teacher	Identifies Alaba as a national property	This attributes a characteristic to Alaba, showing how he is perceived by others

2.2.1.6 Existential Processes

Existential processes in literature are concerned with the existence or happening of something. They often deal with themes of existence, life, and the human condition. In "Alapata Apata", existential processes are evident in the characters' contemplation of their lives and their place in the world.

Existentialism is a term applied to the work of a number of philosophers since the 19th century who, despite large differences in their positions, generally focused on the condition of human existence, and an individual's emotions, actions, responsibilities, and thoughts, or the meaning or purpose of life (Literariness, 2016).

In the context of this play, we can see existential processes at work in how the characters contemplate their existence and their place in the world. For example, Alaba contemplates his existence and his past, particularly his time in school and the incident with the globe. This is an existential process because it involves Alaba reflecting on his existence and his experiences.

Character	Existential Process	Explanation
Alaba	Contemplates his existence and his past	This shows Alaba reflecting on his life and experiences, an existential process
Teacher	Reflects on Alaba's impact on the village	This shows the Teacher contemplating the existence and impact of Alaba, an existential process

In conclusion, both relational and existential processes play a significant role in "Alapata Apata". They help to develop the characters and their relationships, and they contribute to the themes of the play, including contemplation of existence and the human condition.

        - 2.2.2 Circumstances

2.2.2.1 Circumstances of Extent

The circumstances of extent in "Alapata Apata" by Wole Soyinka refer to the degree or scale to which an action or event occurs. For instance, Alaba's influence and fame extend not only to his village but also to Lagos sophisticates, as mentioned by the teacher. This shows the wide-reaching impact of Alaba's actions and decisions.

Here's a table illustrating the circumstances of extent:

Character	Action/Event	Circumstance of Extent
Alaba	Influence and fame	Extends from his village to Lagos sophisticates
Teacher	Jogging back to Alaba	The extent of his concern and commitment to Alaba
Okada Riders	Considering Alaba's advice	The extent of their willingness to innovate and adapt

2.2.2.2 Circumstances of Location

The circumstances of location in the play refer to the physical or metaphorical places where events occur or where characters are situated. For example, Alaba's house serves as a significant location where many of the interactions take place. The signboard, a symbol of Alaba's fame, is located in his house, making it a landmark for villagers and city dwellers alike.

Here's a table illustrating the circumstances of location:

Character/Event	Location
Alaba's interactions with the Teacher and Okada Riders	Alaba's house
The signboard	Alaba's house
Arrival of the royal entourage	Near Alaba's house

2.2.2.3 Circumstances of Manner

The circumstances of manner in "Alapata Apata" refer to the way in which actions are carried out or events occur. For instance, Alaba's manner of accepting the teacher's advice about the signboard shows his respect for tradition and authority. The Okada riders' manner of considering Alaba's advice reflects their openness to new ideas and their respect for Alaba's wisdom.

Here's a table illustrating the circumstances of manner:

Character	Action	Circumstance of Manner
Alaba	Accepts the teacher's advice	Respectful and open to guidance
Teacher	Gives advice to Alaba	Authoritative and confident
Okada Riders	Consider Alaba's advice	Open to new ideas and respectful of Alaba's wisdom

These analyses provide a deeper understanding of the characters and events in "Alapata Apata". However, a full reading of the play may reveal additional nuances and insights.

 

2.2.2.4 Circumstances of Cause

The circumstances of cause in "Alapata Apata" by Wole Soyinka are deeply rooted in the socio-political context of the time. The characters' actions and reactions are influenced by their environment, personal experiences, and societal norms. For instance, Alaba's decision to keep the signboard is influenced by his teacher's advice, which is a reflection of the societal value placed on tradition and heritage.

In the context of the play, the circumstances of cause can be illustrated through a table:

Character	Action	Circumstance of Cause
Alaba	Decides to keep the signboard	Teacher's advice and societal value on tradition
Teacher	Advises Alaba to keep the signboard	Belief in the importance of landmarks and heritage
Okada Riders	Consider using clay pots as helmets	Alaba's advice and the need for originality and safety

2.2.2.5 Circumstances of Accompaniment

The circumstances of accompaniment refer to the conditions or factors that accompany an action or event. In "Alapata Apata", these circumstances are often tied to the characters' interactions and the unfolding events. For example, the arrival of the royal entourage accompanies Alaba's panic and hurried dressing. The circumstances of accompaniment can be visualized in a table:

Event	Circumstance of Accompaniment
Arrival of the royal entourage	Alaba's panic and hurried dressing
Alaba's decision to keep the signboard	Teacher's advice and approval
Okada Riders considering clay pots as helmets	Alaba's advice and encouragement

2.2.2.6 Circumstances of Matter

The circumstances of matter in "Alapata Apata" relate to the subject matter or content of the characters' actions and dialogues. For instance, the matter of Alaba's nightmare and the broken globe reveal his guilt and regret over his past actions. The circumstances of matter can be summarized in a table:

Character	Dialogue/Action	Circumstance of Matter
Alaba	Talks about his nightmare and the broken globe	Guilt and regret over past actions
Teacher	Reassures Alaba about the broken globe	Attempt to alleviate Alaba's guilt
Okada Riders	Discuss the idea of clay pots as helmets	Exploration of innovative and original ideas

It's important to note that these analyses are based on the provided excerpts and additional research. The full text of "Alapata Apata" might provide further insights and nuances into these elements.

For further reading, Afolayan Kayode's article "Myth and Social Consciousness in Wole Soyinka's Alapata Apata" provides an in-depth analysis of the play's use of myth and its social implications (Kayode, 2021, source).

 

2.2.2.7 Circumstances of Role

The circumstances of role in "Alapata Apata" by Wole Soyinka refer to the roles that characters play in the narrative and how these roles influence their actions, interactions, and the unfolding of events. Each character's role is shaped by their personal attributes, societal position, and relationships with other characters.

Here's a table illustrating the circumstances of role:

Character	Role	Influence on the Narrative
Alaba	The protagonist, a retired butcher	Alaba's decisions and interactions drive the narrative. His role as a respected village figure allows him to influence others, as seen in his interactions with the teacher and the Okada riders.
Teacher	Alaba's advisor and moral guide	The teacher's advice influences Alaba's decisions, such as keeping the signboard. His role also provides a moral compass in the narrative.
Okada Riders	Represent the younger generation and the common people	The Okada riders' actions and reactions provide a perspective on the societal changes and challenges faced by the younger generation. Their role also highlights the influence of Alaba's wisdom on the community.

In "Alapata Apata", the characters' roles are not static but evolve with the narrative. For instance, Alaba's role expands from a retired butcher to a national figure, reflecting his growing influence. Similarly, the Okada riders' role evolves from mere observers to active participants in the narrative, reflecting their growing agency and the changing societal dynamics.

These circumstances of role provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their significance in the narrative. However, a full reading of the play may reveal additional nuances and insights.

D'accord, je vais commencer la rédaction de la section 3.1 "Identification of process type" pour votre mémoire de recherche. Veuillez noter que les exemples que je vais utiliser seront basés sur l'extrait que vous avez fourni et non sur l'ensemble de la pièce "Alapata Apata", car je n'ai pas accès au texte complet.