The synergic interface between narrative techniques and other elements of fiction: Dramatic irony and Betrayal in NGugi's A Grain of Wheat.

Abstract

The author’s goal to successfully impart a thought through fiction depends largely on the synergetic relationship between narrative techniques and other literary elements. This paper explores the synergic alliance between the authors’ choice of methods or literary devices to reveal the audience how characters and themes affecting them cannot be disconnected. The study hinges on a qualitative document analysis involving Ngugi’s novel A Grain of Wheat. Discussion was guided by three study questions concerning the place that narrative techniques hold among the fictional generic elements; the use of dramatic irony in A Grain of Wheat; and what can be learnt from that situation. Analysis revealed that dramatic irony is used in that novel to show the reader that people could be cautious to decide on heroes and traitors before the story conflict resolution. It was also confirmed that the interface between elements of literature cannot be doubted.