Documenting Endangered Oral Traditions: A Study of Selected Yoruba Proverbs and Folktales

Yoruba proverbs and folktales constitute important forms of oral heritage. These are means which cultural knowledge, moral values, social norms and indigenous worldviews are transmitted across generations. However, changing language practices, urbanisation, migration, modern entertainment and declining intergenerational interaction threaten the continuity of these traditions. This study examines selected Yoruba proverbs and folktales with the aim of documenting their cultural and linguistic meanings, analysing their social, moral and educational functions, and identifying strategies for their preservation and intergenerational transmission. The study adopts a qualitative approach and analyses 14 selected oral items comprising eight Yoruba proverbs and six folktale data units. These were collected through oral interviews and storytelling sessions with knowledgeable Yoruba speakers. The data were analysed thematically. This is with focus on metaphor, cultural meanings, moral values, social functions and educational significance. The findings reveal that Yoruba proverbs encode cultural knowledge through metaphorical expressions, while folktales communicate social and moral values through characters, actions and consequences. The study further establishes that documentation through audio-visual recording, transcription, translation and digital archiving can reduce the risk of cultural loss. It recommends stronger intergenerational storytelling, incorporation of oral traditions into education, digital preservation and active community participation in safeguarding Yoruba oral heritage.