English Language Homework
Article - Linked to Gender
Overall views expressed:
The main viewpoints in this article are that there are certain words to describe a woman which carry highly negative connotations compared to that of men. This article is written by David Shariatmadari, with the title 'Eight words that reveal the sexism at the heart of the English Language'. This article is suggesting it is not the dictionaries which are sexist even though they provide definitions for the words, but it is actually the English Language itself which is sexist. This adds to the idea that sexist assumptions are implanted into our everyday speech and writing as a result of the society we live in. The language used to describe a women has gone through pejoration - originally had positive connotations but now are associated with negativity. The entire of this article focuses on the negative aspects of the English Language and how certain lexical choices are used to degrade women. FOR EXAMPLE, there is a list of 8 different words used as a way of describing women which had previously meant something positive but had changed in meaning. For example, this article shows the word 'tart' in saying it had previously meant ''sweetheart'' (associated with loveliness and kindness, a positive label' but now means '' a female of immoral character; a prostitute - (semantic derogation). The purpose of this article is to inform those reading it of the ways the English Language is seen to favour men and to persuade them that this is wrong - it is disrespectful to women.
Analysis (Quick overview of language levels)
- LEXIS - The lexical choice in this article consists of mainly monosyllabic lexis which is shown through the low register. This creates a flow to the article through the conversational style.
- GRAMMAR - The syntax structure in this article is vastly complex and compound sentences, with little simple sentences. Use of parenthesis is to add additional information to a sentence.
- DISCOURSE - This article begins with paragraphed information which then carries on when describing the 8 words - follows a structure.
Some super work here! Thanks Laura!
ReplyDeleteThis is a very clear and detailed analysis of the article. You have clearly demonstrated that you have a broad knowledge and detailed understanding of language levels. This was especially highlighted when you correctly identified and explained the use of some more complex language levels such as 'semantic derogation' and 'parenthesis'. You were also able to analyse the effect of the linguistic choices made by the writer (such as the connotations of the words) and link this to the writers ultimate aim - to persuade the reader. Overall, a very strong analysis. Well done!
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