AN ANALYSIS OF PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: A POLITENESS PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study presents an analysis of the types of strategies adopted in the event of an FTA - a rejection. Using selected conversations from the 2001 BBC dramatization of one of Jane Austen's most representative works, Pride and Prejudice, the various linguistic realizations that are associated with the types of strategies adopted are analysed. Focusing on negative politeness, another objective of this study is to examine the manifestation of impoliteness in early nineteenth-century English society which prides itself on politeness and civility. Observations from the data collected demonstrate that in most instances, politeness is hardly used as a velvet glove to soften the blow of aggression as anticipated. Instead, on-record strategies are used. This study also presents possible motivations behind the employment of the different strategies adopted by the novel's heroine, Elizabeth Bennet in different situations. Doing so will enable a better understanding of the novel and in turn, a clearer picture of early nineteenth-century English society.