SOCIOLINGUISTIC PERSPECTIVES OF MULTILINGUALISM EXPLORATION IN CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE'S PURPLE HIBISCUS (2003) AND HALF OF A YELLOW SUN (2006)

This research investigates the sociolinguistic dimensions of multilingualism as depicted in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s literary works, Purple Hibiscus (2003) and Half of a Yellow Sun (2006). It examines the complex dynamics of linguistic interaction and language contact in these novels, highlighting how multilingualism shapes narrative representation, character identity construction, and the portrayal of cultural contexts. The two selected novels constitute the foundation of the analysis conducted through a qualitative research approach, involving a close textual examination to gain a comprehensive understanding of both narratives. Findings reveal that Adichie employs code-switching to add local colour to her text, emphasizing the eastern Nigerian setting of her novels. Code-switching and code-mixing function as significant linguistic strategies through which Nigerian socio-cultural identity is expressed. Through these techniques, Adichie authentically represents the country’s linguistic diversity andcultural complexity, reflecting everyday language practices in Nigeria. This approach enriches character identity construction, highlights broader sociocultural realities embedded in the narratives, and reinforces themes of belonging, cultural continuity, social interaction, and linguistic negotiation within postcolonial Nigerian society.