Typology of Rhetorical Questions as a Stylistic Device in Writing

Abioye, T. (2009) Typology of Rhetorical Questions as a Stylistic Device in Writing. The International Journal of Language Society and Culture. pp. 1-8. ISSN 1327-774X

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Abstract

This paper is concerned with the use of rhetorical questions (RQs), a stylistic device often not recognized as such. The problem of reading and writing in a second language in Nigeria and also using different styles apart from the conventional style are examined. The paper also focuses on the impact any stylistic choice has on the reader. Specifically, it examines style and the concept of the RQ as well as identifying typology of RQs (about 8 different types), their characteristics and instances of overlap, their purposes and functions in newspapers and other forms of discourse. The idea is to highlight reasons why teachers and writers should spice up and embellish the variety of styles available for use and also point out to readers and writers which types of RQs have been used as well as the purposes, objectives and the writer’s intention in using that particular style. The paper also looks at the sociocultural and extra linguistic contexts of the use of the RQ on the Nigerian literary scene. The typology is presented in tabular form and each type is discussed with examples. The implications of the use of this stylistic device are pointed out for teachers, students, readers and writers.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Style, Stylistic device, Typology, Media messages
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > PE English
Divisions:	Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Humanities
Depositing User:	Mr Adewole Adewumi
Date Deposited:	27 Dec 2012 11:38
Last Modified:	27 Dec 2012 11:38
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/1075

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