1.
Pragmatics and Stylistics
Pragmatics: Studies how people use language in real situations. It focuses on what we mean (beyond
just the words) and how we act while talking, like requesting or informing.
Stylistics: Looks at how language is styled or structured, especially in creative works like stories or
poems, to create an effect like making it more beautiful, emotional, or persuasive.
2. Pragma-stylistics
This is a mix of pragmatics and stylistics. It studies how language use (pragmatics) can explain styles in
literature. It helps us understand both the speaker’s intent and how the style affects readers.
3. Foregrounding vs. Automatization
Foregrounding: When language is used in an unusual way to grab attention (e.g., metaphors, rhymes, or
irony). Think of it like bold text—it stands out.
Automatization: Normal, everyday language that doesn’t stand out. For example, filler words like "you
know" or "kind of" in casual speech.
4. Pragmatic Theories in Literature
Pragmatic theories explain how authors communicate meaning, often indirectly, through creative
language. Here are some key ideas:
a) Grice’s Cooperative Principle (CP)
Grice created 4 rules (maxims) that guide effective communication:
Quantity: Say just enough, not too much or too little.
Quality: Be truthful.
Relevance: Stay on topic.
Manner: Be clear and organized.
Authors sometimes break these rules (called "flouting") to add deeper meanings:
Flouting quantity: Giving too much or too little information (e.g., repeating something for emphasis).
Flouting quality: Using irony, exaggeration, or lying to convey hidden meanings.
Flouting relevance: Adding unrelated elements, sometimes for humor or creativity.
Flouting manner: Using ambiguity, metaphors, or vague language to challenge the reader to think.
b) Character and Narrator Interactions
Characters may lie, exaggerate, or hide information, breaking the maxim of quality.
Authors often challenge readers with indirect expressions, like metaphors or symbols, to encourage
deeper analysis.
5. Politeness Theory in Literature
Politeness Theory helps us understand how people avoid conflict or show respect in communication. It
applies to conversations between characters in stories and between the author/narrator and the reader.
1. Politeness in Character Interactions
In a story, characters interact in different ways, and politeness depends on their relationship, emotions,
or the situation.
Polite Conversations: Characters use polite language to maintain respect or build relationships. For
example:
“Would you like some tea?”
“No, thank you very much. It’s delicious!”
This shows kindness and consideration.
Quarrels: During arguments, characters may break politeness rules, using harsh or disrespectful
language. For instance:
“You’re such a fool!”
This creates tension and shows conflict between characters.
2. Politeness Between Author/Narrator and Reader
When an author writes, they ask the reader to give their time and attention. Writing a story is seen as a
Face-Threatening Act (FTA) because:
The reader gives up time to focus on the author’s message.
The author might challenge the reader’s beliefs or comfort by presenting difficult ideas or
uncomfortable topics.
To balance this:
Positive Politeness: Authors try to make their writing engaging and clear. They use humor, interesting
plots, or relatable characters to keep readers interested.
Negative Politeness: Authors avoid imposing too much by respecting the reader’s time and
understanding. For example, they might summarize or explain complex ideas to avoid confusion.
6. Symbolism and Meaning.
Symbolism is when an object, word, or idea represents something deeper. Writers use symbols to add
layers of meaning and make their stories more engaging.
Characteristics of Symbolism
Symbols don’t directly explain their meaning; they suggest it, requiring interpretation.
They often flout Grice’s maxims:
Quality: A symbol may not be literally true (e.g., “My love is a red rose” isn’t factual, but it implies
beauty and passion).
Relevance: A symbol may seem unrelated at first but has deeper significance when analyze
Conclusion
Pragma-stylistics helps us understand how authors use creative language and communication strategies
to connect with readers. It explains the deeper effects of literary styles that regular grammar or
linguistic rules alone can’t fully analyze.