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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Dreams in Amharic Prose Fiction
Author:Assefa, TayeISNI
Year:1988
Periodical:Journal of Ethiopian Studies
Volume:21
Period:November
Pages:155-183
Language:English
Geographic term:Ethiopia
Subjects:dreams
Amhara
literature
Literature, Mass Media and the Press
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
External link:https://www.jstor.org/stable/41965966
Abstract:Survey of the function of dreams (in terms of their role in the plot scheme, character delineation, and thematic development), the types of dream symbolism used, and the similarities and contrasts in the use of dreams in representative Ge'ez works and Amharic prose fiction. One of the major roles of dreams in both Ge'ez and Amharic works is the prediction of future events. The prophetic dreams generally occur to the most virtuous characters and are often conveyed through angelic agency, thus revealing the influence of religious narratives. A marked feature in many of the Amharic dreams is their abrupt or inconclusive ending, which maintains the reader's interest. Contrary to dreams in Ge'ez narratives, Amharic dreams are employed as devices for the psychological portrayal of characters in crisis situations. Illustrative, prescriptive, and expository types of dreams such as those seen in the Ge'ez works are uncommon in Amharic prose fiction. Notes, ref.
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