An Analysis of the Functions of Language in the Novel Kuyucaklı Yusuf (Simile, Irony, Synecdoche, Rhetorical Question, Personification, and Prosopopoeia)

Abstract

This study aims to identify the literary devices found in the language functions of Sabahattin Ali’s novel Kuyucaklı Yusuf and to evaluate their effects on the author’s style. The study draws upon Cem Dilçin's work Örneklerle Türk Şiir Bilgisi (Examples of Turkish Poetic Knowledge) and Roman Jakobson’s linguistic theory concerning the functions of language as its primary sources. Language is an essential tool for communication among people. The use of language varies depending on its purpose. Authors enrich their works and bring out the beauty of expression through language functions. The literary devices employed in these functions are significant as they reflect the language and style of the authors. Using literary devices enhances the beauty of a text, adds depth and richness to its expression, and elevates its artistic impact. In line with this perspective, this study aims to demonstrate the effects of literary devices on language and style. To achieve this goal, preliminary information about the language and its functions was collected, and the literary devices associated with these functions were identified and explained. Subsequently, the sentences containing synecdoche (mecaz-ı mürsel), irony (tariz), simile (teşbih), personification (teşhis), prosopopoeia (intak), and rhetorical questions (istifham) in the novel were identified and analysed under their respective categories. Based on the study's findings, conclusions and recommendations were drawn.