Talk-exchange as determinant(s) of power in topic development : a critical discourse analytical interpretation with special reference to the use of dialogue in selected isiZulu drama books

Abstract

In every setting of human space there is hierarchy. At home there are parents and children while in social structures there are organisations/institutions and leaders, all of whom carry their positions with them. All these hierarchies are embedded in a web of mutual relations, but to a greater extent, power relations as others abuse their positions while some are subjugated and controlled. This study critically analyses talk exchanges in power relations within topic development. It draws its analytical viewpoint from twelve selected IsiZulu drama books with an aim of demonstrating power relations as embedded in language and literature in particular. The following are some of the elements of the discussion that highlight talk exchanges and power relations, namely, maxim of conversation, interruptions and interjections, dominance and control, power of language and turntaking, to name a few. To analyse data, written conversations are clustered based on themes as expounded by (Vaismoradi, et al, 2016:101). Themes were then analysed using the conditions of agreement (similar cases) and differences within the scope of Analytical Comparisons. As the findings, the study revealed that talk exchanges are elements of power relations in topic development. Further, the findings also contributed to the understanding that power abuse has beeninstitutionalised along the line of institutions, race, gender and age. The findings further highlight that most drama books have themes that share method of agreement and lesser of the condition of difference. The study further highlights that written texts of human engagement keep records of social cohesion and cohabitation. Furthermore, if such coexistence is discorded by power (dominance and control), resistance interjects.