The theme of “Contradiction” in Riffian-Amazigh proverbs

Abstract

The present study seeks to shed light on the theme of contradiction in Riffian-Amazigh (RA) proverbs. As a North African language, the RA variety has a rich array of proverbs dealing with different topics. With this being said, this paper intends to analyze the Riffian-Amazigh proverbs and underscore the most noteworthy and striking aspects of contradiction exhibited in such oral cultural expressions displaying different aspects of the identity of the Riffian-Amazigh community. The study is based on a mixed methodological approach to data analysis, and other quantitative and qualitative methods. The findings show that Riffian-Amazigh proverbs are not exceptions to proverbs found in other languages and cultures. Some proverbs are mutually contradictory, and this is the case with most of the proverb pairs. On the other hand, other proverbs are partially contradictory, but they are very few. This reveals nothing more than the complexity of the human nature and the paradoxical way of thinking. The human mind is inextricably complex. Hence, exploring such contradictions will certainly provide us with insights into cultural nuances and the complexities of human linguistic and social behaviour.