INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the research
Figurative language, especially metaphor, remains a captivating area of research that warrants further exploration Despite extensive studies on metaphors and their expressions, their significance in both linguistic analysis and daily life is profound Many individuals utilize metaphorical concepts unconsciously, highlighting the need for deeper understanding and recognition of these linguistic tools In "Metaphors We Live By," George Lakoff emphasizes the pervasive influence of metaphors in shaping our thoughts and experiences.
According to Lakoff and Mark Johnson (1980), metaphor is an integral part of everyday life, influencing not only language but also our thoughts and actions This highlights the significant role of metaphor as a powerful tool that enhances our ability to use and appreciate language.
Literature serves as an ideal lens for exploring the concept of metaphor, as it embodies both imagination and realism This duality allows for the examination of metaphors from both ordinary and extraordinary perspectives With its abundant and diverse use of figurative language, literature stands out as a rich source of authentic metaphors that create vivid imagery and amplify the impact of language Consequently, many researchers have turned to literature as a valuable resource for studying language This paper aims to investigate conceptual metaphors within literary works, contributing to a deeper understanding of language.
Harriet Beecher Stowe (June 14, 1811 - July 1, 1896) was a prominent American author and abolitionist from the renowned Beecher family Throughout her life, she authored thirty books, which encompassed novels, travel memoirs, and various collections of articles and letters, making a significant impact through her literary contributions and advocacy against slavery.
Harriet Beecher Stowe is renowned for her impactful public stances on social issues, particularly through her best-selling anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852) This powerful narrative highlights the brutal realities faced by enslaved African Americans and resonated with millions, both as a book and a play Its influence was significant in the United States and Great Britain, galvanizing anti-slavery movements in the North while inciting anger in the South The researcher, having read the story multiple times since childhood, has developed a profound connection to its plot, themes, and characters, making it one of their favorite literary works.
This paper aims to explore the conceptual metaphors in Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin," contributing to the understanding of metaphors in literature and enhancing the teaching and learning of foreign literature for English students.
Aim and objectives of the research
This study examines the conceptual metaphors present in Harriet Beecher Stowe's short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin" through the lens of cognitive linguistics It focuses on identifying the various conceptual metaphors within the narrative and categorizing them for a deeper understanding of their significance.
Research questions
In order to achieve the above aim and objectives, the study tries to seek out the answers to the following research questions:
- What conceptual metaphors are generated in the short story?
- How can we categorize these conceptual metaphors?
The initial research question posits that conceptual metaphors are widespread within the narrative, prompting the researcher to examine the metaphors arising from the varied linguistic resources employed in the story Additionally, categorization plays a vital role in the field of cognitive linguistics.
Conceptual metaphors can be categorized in many different ways based on the researcher‘s understanding, experience and interpretation That is the underlying assumption for the second research question.
Scope of the research
This research is grounded in the theoretical frameworks established by Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Lakoff and Turner (1989), and Lakoff (2006), along with other scholars in the field of conceptual metaphor studies The study analyzes data from the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe.
The study of conceptual metaphors encompasses various issues and perspectives, including frames and image schemas; however, this research intentionally focused on a narrower scope No specific types of conceptual metaphors were established prior to the investigation, allowing for a comprehensive exploration aimed at identifying any emerging conceptual metaphors.
Significance of the research
Metaphor is a fundamental aspect of human language that holds significance for understanding both language use and the human mind This research not only offers theoretical insights but also enhances the teaching and learning of second languages The thesis focuses on analyzing metaphorical expressions through the lens of Conceptual Metaphor Theory in literary works like "Uncle Tom's Cabin." By conducting both theoretical analysis and empirical studies, this research contributes to the broader field of literature studies.
Structure of the thesis
This research comprises five chapters:
Chapter I – Introduction – This chapter discusses the rationale, aim and objectives, research questions, scope and significance of the study
Chapter II – Literature review & Theoretical Background – This chapter discusses the fundamental concepts that function the foundations for the study such as metaphor, conceptual metaphors, categorization of metaphors Previous studies related to the research were also analyzed to shed light on the methodology, the data analysis, the findings and discussions of the thesis
Chapter III – Methodology – This chapter discusses the research approach, data analysis, data analytical framework of the study
Chapter IV – Findings & Discussions – This chapter presents the data and discusses the results of the study
Chapter V – Conclusion – This chapter summarizes the findings, discusses the limitations and makes suggestions for further research
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL
Introduction
Metaphor has been a subject of study for linguists for many years, traditionally viewed as a mere figure of speech in literature However, since the late 20th century, particularly with the publication of "Metaphors We Live By" by Lakoff and Johnson in 1980, cognitive linguistics has redefined metaphor's significance This pivotal work introduced the concept of core conceptual metaphors, marking a transformative shift in metaphorical research Today, metaphors are recognized not only as literary devices but also as integral to everyday language and thought, serving as essential tools for expressing ideas and understanding the world.
Lakoff and Johnson (1980) assert that human thought processes are fundamentally metaphorical, prompting extensive research into cognitive and conceptual metaphors across various languages This exploration has led to the development of Conceptual Metaphor Theory, which Gibbs (1994) elaborates on by differentiating between metaphor as a product and metaphor as a process, highlighting how metaphors function in text versus thought Steen (1994) further distinguishes between system-level metaphors, encompassing language and thought, and metaphors used in personal expression Additionally, Shore (1996) introduces metaphorical models that reflect cultural frameworks shared within multicultural communities, contributing to the understanding of metaphors in diverse contexts.
In 1999, it was argued that abstract ideas often emerge from metaphorical insights, highlighting the significance of metaphors in shaping thought Goatly (2007) examined the connection between conceptual metaphors and cognitive processes, emphasizing their role in understanding human thought Furthermore, Kểvecses (2010) offered a comprehensive overview of advancements in cognitive metaphor research over two decades, investigating the applicability of cognitive metaphor theory across various social domains.
In Vietnam, it can be said that this new trend of study was first introduced in
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, significant research on metaphor from a cognitive perspective emerged, notably in Ly Toan Thang's 1994 article on Language and Space Recognition His 2005 work, “Cognitive Linguistics – From General Theory to Practice in Vietnamese,” explores cognitive linguistics and its application to Vietnamese Nguyen Duc Ton's 2007 publication, “Cognitive Linguistics: Notes and Thinking,” contrasts pre-cognitive and cognitive metaphor perceptions in Vietnam and globally, elucidating the essence of metaphor Nguyen Van Hiep (2008) examines the importance of meaning in syntactic analysis through a cognitive lens, while Tran Van Co (2009) highlights global advancements in cognitive metaphor studies and provides tools for understanding these concepts in Vietnamese Further investigations include Nguyen Duc Ton's 2008 analysis of cognitive metaphors in Vietnamese idioms and Nguyen Lai's 2009 exploration of conceptual metaphors in poetry.
In recent years, there has been a significant surge in interest in cognitive approaches to literature, particularly regarding the role of metaphor in understanding the mind and facilitating meaning-making George Lakoff and Mark Johnson, in their influential work "Metaphors We Live By" (1980), defined conceptual metaphors as essential tools for comprehending our experiences and interactions.
7 abstract concepts in terms of more concrete ones Many authors write figuratively by deploying literary devices like metaphor and irony to convey their meanings
Ester Vidović (2011) explored the conceptualization of time and space in Victorian fairy tales, focusing on the works of John Ruskin, George MacDonald, and Oscar Wilde Her research highlights the use of conceptual metaphors by these authors, emphasizing the challenges of studying metaphors in the fairy tale genre, which has been largely overlooked in relation to the historical context of time and space.
Jamshidian, S and Motlagh, A A (2020) in their study ―A Cognitive Black
The feminist analysis of Colson Whitehead's "The Underground Railroad" and Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" reveals how metaphor serves as a powerful tool to transcend the limitations of language when confronting the horrors of slavery, racism, and the unique double oppression faced by black women Both authors utilize metaphorical language to articulate the profound struggles and resilience of their characters, highlighting the urgent need for a deeper understanding of these social injustices.
In 1852, authors utilized metaphorical titles to critique white domination and transform the consciousness of oppressed women, contrasting their realities with their potential This approach highlights how Whitehead revitalizes the narrative of Uncle Tom's Cabin, which has faded over time, to emotionally resonate with a contemporary global audience, particularly at a moment when racial hatred appears to be a relic of the past.
In her 2010 study, "A Study of Water and Fire as Metaphors in American and Vietnamese Short Stories of the 20th Century," Phí Thị Thu Trang explored the significance of water and fire as metaphors in literature She highlighted that metaphors are not merely linguistic tools but also reflect our cognitive processes, influencing our daily interactions and language use The analysis of 60 short stories revealed that water and fire frequently appear as powerful symbols, shaping perceptions of the natural world and human society in both American and Vietnamese contexts.
The study highlights that metaphors of water and fire are crafted using various lexical and grammatical tools, effectively conveying intense emotions and vivid imagery In both American and Vietnamese cultures, these elements carry dual connotations—representing both positive and negative aspects—shaped by individuals' perceptions of the beauty and peril associated with water and fire.
In her 2012 research, "Life and Death Metaphors in Some Short Stories by Jack London from a Cognitive Perspective," Hoàng Diệu Thu identifies and ranks the prevalent conceptual metaphors of Life and Death based on their linguistic representation in London's short stories The primary metaphors representing Life include "LIFE IS A JOURNEY," "LIFE IS A FIGHT/BATTLE," "LIFE IS FIRE/HEAT/WARM," and "LIFE IS LIGHT/DAYTIME." Conversely, the conceptual metaphors associated with Death, closely linked to the Life system, include "DEATH IS THE END OF THE JOURNEY," "DEATH IS COLD," "DEATH IS NIGHT/DARKNESS," and "DEATH IS SLEEP/REST." This analysis underscores the complexity of Life and Death, suggesting that no single metaphor can fully encapsulate their meanings.
While extensive research has been conducted on conceptual metaphors globally and within Vietnamese literature, there remains a notable absence of focused studies on the conceptual metaphors in Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin." This gap hinders a deeper understanding of the narrative, particularly in the realm of conceptual metaphors.
Theoretical background
This section offers a theoretical foundation for the study, focusing on cognitive linguistics and the role of metaphors It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of conceptual metaphors, including their classification and key characteristics.
Cognitive linguistics is a modern school of linguistic thought and practice,
Cognitive linguistics explores the interplay between language and cognition, highlighting how language shapes our thoughts and reflects societal changes over time (Robinson and Ellis, 2008) This field examines various topics, including the structural features of natural language categorization—such as systematic polysemy, cognitive models, mental imagery, and metaphor—as well as the functional principles of linguistic organization, including iconicity and naturalness Additionally, it investigates the conceptual connections between syntax and semantics, the experiential and pragmatic contexts of language use, and the intricate relationship between language and thought (Geeraerts and Cuyckens, 2007) Key contributors to cognitive linguistics include prominent scholars such as Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Langacker (1987), Fauconnier (1997), Talmy (2000), Kểvecses (2002), and Lý Toàn Thắng (2005).
Cognitive linguistics is characterized by two fundamental commitments: the Generalization Commitment and the Cognitive Commitment The Generalization Commitment emphasizes the need for overarching principles that apply to all aspects of human language, suggesting that traditional approaches to studying language—such as semantics, phonology, morphology, and syntax—are inadequate due to their limited capacity for generalization In contrast, the Cognitive Commitment focuses on aligning language principles with insights from human cognition as understood in other fields, asserting that language should reflect general cognitive principles rather than specific ones.
Cognitive linguistics encompasses various definitions based on the specific aspects of linguistics researchers aim to explore from a cognitive viewpoint Unlike other linguistic approaches, cognitive linguistics posits that language mirrors fundamental properties and design features of the human mind Essentially, it examines the intricate relationship between human language and cognitive processes, as well as socio-physical contexts.
Cognitive linguistics encompasses two main subfields: cognitive grammar and cognitive semantics Cognitive grammar focuses on the cognitive principles that shape linguistic organization, proposing that grammar, semantics, and lexicon exist on a continuum rather than as separate systems (Langacker, 1987) In contrast, cognitive semantics examines linguistic meaning as a reflection of human cognitive abilities, suggesting that language explains the world as individuals perceive it (Croft and Cruse, 2004) Additionally, conceptual metaphor theory, a key component of cognitive grammar and semantics, aims to elucidate the relationship between conceptual systems and language within the broader context of brain and mind studies.
A metaphor is a word or phrase that describes someone or something in a way that differs from its usual meaning, highlighting shared qualities to enhance the description This literary device involves meaning transference based on similarities or common features between two or more objects.
According to Galperin (1981), metaphor establishes a connection between dictionary definitions and contextual meanings, relying on the similarities between corresponding concepts This idea is further explored in Lakoff and Johnson's work, "Metaphors We Live By" (1980), where they delve into how metaphors shape our understanding of the world.
Metaphors are crucial in shaping our daily realities, as highlighted by Johnson In the field of cognitive linguistics, a metaphor is understood as the process of comprehending one conceptual domain through the lens of another, a perspective supported by Lakoff.
In 1993, it was emphasized that metaphor extends beyond mere language to encompass thought and reasoning, with language being a secondary element The primary focus is on mapping, which legitimizes the application of language and inference patterns from the source domain to concepts in the target domain.
The nature of metaphor can be understood from linguistic and cognitive perspectives Traditionally, metaphor or linguistic metaphor is viewed as a figure of
Metaphor is a linguistic expression that conveys meaning beyond its literal interpretation, exemplified by phrases like "He’s going to ask for her hand," which symbolizes a marriage proposal This figurative language highlights the act of placing a ring on a partner's finger as a representation of commitment According to Lakoff and Johnson (1980), metaphor is a unique characteristic of language, emphasizing its role in communication through words rather than direct thought or action.
Cognitive linguistics offers a perspective on metaphor, defining it as the process of understanding one conceptual domain through the lens of another (Kovecses, 2002) This idea is further explored in Lakoff and Johnson's seminal work, "Metaphors We Live By" (1980), which emphasizes the foundational role of metaphors in shaping our thoughts and experiences.
Johnson defines metaphor as a means of understanding one concept through the lens of another, referring to this as a conceptual metaphor Our daily interactions and communication are shaped by various underlying concepts For example, many cultures perceive and discuss life and love as journeys These prevalent concepts are so ingrained that they often go unnoticed as metaphors or figures of speech In English, expressions related to love and life frequently reflect this journey metaphor.
My life is going to an end / He’ll end up in prison
Our relationship is going nowhere / We won’t go far in this marriage
Expressions related to journeys often reflect our perceptions of life, even if we don't explicitly state that "my life is a journey." The way we discuss our experiences reveals how we conceptualize them.
With the development of cognitive linguistics and the publication of Metaphors
In "We Live By" (1980), Lakoff and Johnson revolutionized the understanding of metaphor, highlighting its significance in cognitive linguistics This field adopts a conceptual approach to linguistic analysis, emphasizing that linguistic knowledge—encompassing meaning and form—is fundamentally rooted in conceptual structures (Croft and Cruse, 2004) Prior to this influential work, metaphor was largely perceived in a limited manner by the general public.
12 extraordinary form of language rather than a form of language used in everyday life
Metaphor, traditionally viewed as a decorative element in poetry and literature, is redefined by Lakoff and Johnson as a fundamental conceptual process that shapes how we perceive and categorize our world This pervasive phenomenon influences not only our language but also our thoughts and actions, highlighting its crucial role in everyday life (Lakoff and Johnson, 1980).
Summary
This chapter summarizes the contributions of previous studies on conceptualization, highlighting a notable gap in the research regarding conceptual metaphors in the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Despite extensive research on this topic globally and specifically in Vietnam, no dedicated study has focused on the metaphors within this particular narrative, indicating a significant area for further exploration.
17 readers, teachers, learners and translators master the idea of the story
This chapter offers a theoretical foundation for exploring theories pertinent to this thesis, focusing on key insights from Lakoff and Johnson (1980) regarding cognitive linguistics, metaphor, and conceptual metaphor Cognitive linguistics examines the interplay between language and cognition, illustrating how language shapes our thoughts and reflects societal mindset changes over time Conceptual metaphors facilitate understanding by relating an abstract target domain to multiple specific source domains through interactions known as mappings Additionally, the chapter categorizes various types of conceptual metaphors, including structural, ontological, and orientational metaphors, while elaborating on their significance and application.
METHODOLOGY
Research questions
The following two research questions are formulated to address the objectives of the study:
- What conceptual metaphors are generated in the short story?
- How can we categorize these conceptual metaphors?
To conduct the study, the researcher must identify all conceptual metaphors present in the story, leveraging linguistic resources By applying personal understanding and interpretation, these metaphors can be categorized into appropriate types This approach serves as the foundation for addressing the two research questions effectively.
Research approach: Qualitative
Qualitative research is defined by Shank (2002) as a systematic empirical inquiry focused on understanding meaning, emphasizing a planned and public approach within the qualitative research community It is grounded in real-world experiences, aiming to comprehend how individuals interpret their experiences Denzin and Lincoln (2000) further describe qualitative research as interpretive and naturalistic, highlighting that researchers study phenomena in their natural settings to interpret the meanings that people assign to them.
In the ground-breaking work Metaphors We live by (1980), Lakoff and Johnson showed that metaphors are in fact a fundamental, structuring mechanism in the way
19 we interact with and perceive the world around us; a linguistic phenomenon so common and easily accessible that we often do not notice that something is in fact a metaphor
This study aims to examine the conceptual metaphors found in Harriet Beecher Stowe's short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin," categorizing them to gain a deeper understanding of the text Utilizing qualitative research methods, it focuses on collecting and analyzing non-numerical data to explore concepts, opinions, and experiences, thereby providing in-depth insights into the narrative The findings are rooted in the researcher’s interpretation and personal experience, highlighting the subjective nature of qualitative analysis.
Data collections instruments
Reading and reviewing documents is essential for effective research, particularly when original prints of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" are difficult to obtain The researcher primarily utilizes resources from the official Harriet Beecher Stowe website and other credible online sources This approach offers significant advantages, including access to updated, abundant, and authentic materials.
The research draws exclusively on quotations from the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin," featuring character dialogues and expressions found throughout the narrative rather than being confined to a specific chapter or theme This selection was made because these materials effectively illustrate the phenomenon of conceptual metaphors.
Data analyzing method and techniques
The major methods which are used for this research are documentary analysis and observation Thus, employing all metaphorical expressions as its unit of
20 analysis, the collected data is then analyzed using the cognitive approach developed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) Technique of data analysis in this research through several stages below:
The author begins by identifying the smallest meaningful units of data related to the research focus After gathering the data, the researcher analyzes the source domain, target domain, and their mappings.
1 “The child was evidently sincere, and Jane, breaking into a short laugh, said,
“Laws, Missis, there’s heaps of ’em Speculators buys ’em up cheap, when they’s little, and gets ’em raised for market.”
“buys”, cheap”, “market” Source domain: GOOD
2 … actually buying a man up, like a horse, - looking at his teeth, cracking his joints, and trying his paces, and then paying down for him
“buying”, “paying” Source domain: GOOD
“man”, “him” Target domain: MAN
The collected data is organized into categories, with each unit divided into common parts This stage focuses on describing the relationship between the source domain and the target domain.
“buys”, cheap”, “market”, “buying”, “paying” Source domain: GOOD
“child”, “man”, “him” Target domain: MAN
We can see that, ―man" & "good" have same features as they can be paid and bought cheaply on the market Mapping
In examining the relationship between the source domain and target domain, the meaning of each data is directly presented The interpretation meaning is conducted
21 without removing the context of language for instance the context of the time when slavery was abolished in the US in the 19th century
Hence, we can have a conceptual metaphor ―MAN IS GOOD‖
Data analytical framework
This framework represents the method and techniques to analyze the data.
Summary
In summary, four main of methodological points have been presented in this chapter They are (i) the research questions, (ii) the Qualitative approach of
This chapter outlines the research framework, focusing on four key components: the research objectives, data collection instruments, and the methods and techniques for data analysis.
Identifying target domain “man”, “him” MAN
"man" & "good" have same features: can be paid and bought cheaply on the market
-The categorization of the metaphors
Based on the source domain
LIFE is FIRE MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Based on the target domain
FREEDOM is MONEY FREEDOM is OBJECT
FINDINGS & DISCUSSIONS
FINDINGS
4.1.1 The conceptual metaphors generated in the story
The researcher identified twenty structural and ontological conceptual metaphors in the story, utilizing the instruments, methods, and techniques outlined in Chapter III These metaphors can be categorized in multiple ways based on the conceptualization of their source and target domains.
In Uncle Tom's Cabin, freedom is conceptualized as an object, highlighting its significance as a tangible entity The language employed to depict freedom is influenced by dynamic verbs, emphasizing the active pursuit and essence of liberation This metaphorical representation underscores the profound relationship between freedom and individual agency, illustrating how it can be both sought after and defined through actions.
―take‖ and ―make‖ We can take or carry something from one place to another We can make or create something by combining materials or putting parts together
A "thing" refers to a physical object that we can see and touch, embodying the essence of tangible items Our interactions with these physical objects are characterized by a sense of freedom The examples from the story illustrate how this conceptual metaphor is effectively conveyed through specific lexical choices.
“O, ye who take freedom from man, with what words shall ye answer it to God?” (Chapter 37, page 263)
St Clare informed Tom that he would soon be a free man and instructed him to pack his trunk in preparation for their journey to Kentucky.
While in the above examples, we saw FREEDOM is a general object, in this part, we can see FREEDOM is a detailed object through a conceptual metaphor
The conceptual metaphor "FREEDOM is MONEY" illustrates the relationship between financial resources and personal liberty In this framework, money serves as a symbol of freedom, suggesting that financial stability enables individuals to pursue their desires and make choices without constraints This metaphor highlights how economic power can influence one's ability to experience autonomy and independence, ultimately linking wealth to the essence of freedom.
When celebrating your freedom, remember to honor the good soul who contributed to it, and express your gratitude through kindness towards his wife and children.
The metaphorical significance of the terms "own" and "pay" lies in their frequent association with financial transactions These words represent the act of settling debts, highlighting the obligation to reimburse someone for money previously borrowed.
In George Shelby's speech from Chapter XLIV, he emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by Uncle Tom, whose legacy granted them their freedom As he sets his slaves free, he reminds them that they owe a debt of gratitude to Uncle Tom and must honor his memory by supporting his family.
In Uncle Tom's Cabin, freedom transcends mere objectification, functioning instead as a profound container that encapsulates the essence of liberty This conceptual metaphor highlights the intricate relationship between the notion of freedom and its representation as a container, emphasizing the depth and complexity of the characters' struggles for liberation.
When celebrating your freedom, remember to honor the sacrifices of those who paved the way, and show kindness to their families.
A container represents a boundary that defines what is inside or outside, emphasizing its capacity to hold In this context, "your freedom" serves as the container, providing the space where "you" can engage in the act of rejoicing.
In "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the concept of freedom intertwines with the portrayal of the slaver, emphasizing the metaphor that "the man/the slaver is good." The language employed to depict this character plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and influencing readers' perceptions of morality and humanity within the context of slavery.
MAN/THE SLAVER – the target domain is shaped by imagery of a GOOD – the source domain are nouns like “market”, “old cussed black shell”, “ownership”,
The article explores the conceptual metaphor surrounding the exploitation of children, highlighting terms such as "the price of their blood" and "master's debts." It illustrates how children are often viewed as property, with adjectives like "cheap" and verbs such as "buy," "pay," and "sell" underscoring their commodification These lexical items reveal the harsh reality of how society perceives and treats vulnerable youth, emphasizing the grim consequences of viewing them as mere assets.
If I must be sold, or all the people on the place, and everything go to rack, why, let me be sold I s'pose I can b'ar it as well as any on 'em." (Chapter 5, page 34) when I have seen such men in actual ownership of helpless children, of young girls and women,- I have been ready to curse my country, to curse the human race!"
The trader informed Lucy that her child was gone, emphasizing that it was better for her to know the truth now rather than later He acknowledged her inability to take the child down south and revealed that he had sold the boy to a reputable family who would provide a better upbringing than she could offer.
DISCUSSION
An analysis of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" reveals that conceptual metaphors are prevalent throughout the narrative, appearing consistently across all chapters of the story.
The metaphor of the human body and its parts plays a significant role in this narrative, with the human body conceptualized as a container Various body parts, including the heart, eyes, and bosom, serve as containers that symbolize the multifunctional and limitless nature of the human experience, capable of holding everything from the simplest to the most abstract concepts Additionally, the idea of liquid is associated with human attributes such as strength, thought, and language, while other concepts like time, soul, disease, and fire are also framed within the human experience.
The concept of MAN is often associated with the idea of GOOD, as illustrated by historical examples In the context of the 19th century, when slavery was abolished in the US, the perception of the colored man as a commodity highlights this metaphor White individuals viewed the colored man as a good that could be bought, sold, and displayed, often at a low price, reflecting the troubling dynamics of value and human dignity during that era.
In "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the concept of HUMAN serves as a pivotal theme, with most conceptual metaphors revolving around it This underscores the idea that humans are central to the universe, as all other beings and elements are defined and exist in relation to humanity.
In the narrative, the metaphor of FREEDOM is pivotal, representing various dimensions of liberation for individuals, particularly for people of color and those enslaved FREEDOM is depicted as a tangible OBJECT that can be grasped, suggesting it is something we can claim and create Additionally, it is likened to MONEY, emphasizing the notion that freedom must be earned and valued Moreover, FREEDOM is portrayed as a CONTAINER, symbolizing a space where happiness can be experienced and nurtured.
In this narrative, the concept of LIFE is intricately linked to FOOD and FIRE, illustrating how FIRE serves as a foundational metaphor for various emotions such as LOVE, THIRST, and ANGER This demonstrates the versatility of conceptual metaphors, allowing us to understand and categorize complex ideas in diverse ways This aligns with the theories proposed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) regarding the categorization of conceptual metaphors.
CONCLUSION
Summary of major findings
Metaphor, known for its novelty and variety, is considered one of the most challenging figures of speech This stylistic device permeates everyday language, scientific discourse, and various forms of media, but it is particularly prominent in literature, where it effectively conveys deeper messages In literary contexts, metaphors often spark debates over their interpretations, as they involve identifying one concept (the target domain) through another (the source domain), with diverse connections possible between the two.
Research on "Uncle Tom's Cabin" reveals that conceptual metaphors are indeed prevalent throughout the narrative These metaphors are employed in diverse ways across all chapters, effectively conceptualizing various aspects of humanity, nature, and society into distinct entities and objects While the story utilizes many conventional metaphors, Harriet Beecher Stowe also showcases significant creativity by extending and elaborating on everyday metaphors in her work This essay analyzes numerous quotations that highlight these innovative metaphorical uses.
The article explores various types of conceptual metaphors present in the story, highlighting key concepts such as HUMAN, FREEDOM, and LIFE The HUMAN concept includes metaphors like the HUMAN BODY as a CONTAINER and the association of MAN with goodness, while FIRE and TIME are also linked to human experiences FREEDOM is depicted as a tangible OBJECT, akin to MONEY, and as a spacious CONTAINER Additionally, LIFE is represented through metaphors like FOOD and FIRE, with FIRE serving as a source domain for other concepts such as LOVE, THIRST, and ANGER A comprehensive table illustrates these conceptual metaphors in detail.
Object Freedom FREEDOM is an OBJECT
Container Freedom FREEDOM is CONTAINER
Money Freedom FREEDOM is MONEY
Container Human body HUMAN BODY is CONTAINER Container Heart HUMAN HEART is CONTAINER
Container Bosom HUMAN BOSOM is CONTAINER
Container Breast HUMAN BREAST is CONTAINER
Container Eye HUMAN EYE is CONTAINER
Human Sleep SLEEP is HUMAN
Human Time TIME IS AN HUMAN
Human Soul SOUL IS AN HUMAN
Human Disease DISEASE is an HUMAN
Human Fire FIRE is HUMAN
Good Human MAN is a GOOD
Liquid Strength STRENGTH is LIQUID
Liquid Thought THOUGHT is LIQUID
Liquid Language LANGUAGE is LIQUID
Liquid Love LOVE is LIQUID
Maternal Love MATERNAL LOVE is WROUGHT IRON
Love MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Liquid Love LOVE is LIQUID
Food Life LIFE is FOOD
Fire Life LIFE is FIRE
Fire Thirst THIRST is FIRE
Fire Anger HUMAN FEELING/ANGER is FIRE
Love MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Fire Life LIFE is FIRE
Human Fire FIRE is HUMAN
Implications for studying, teaching and researching
Studying literature enhances our understanding of diverse cultures and the intricacies of human emotions, ultimately improving our language skills It serves as a mirror to society, showcasing people's actions, feelings, and values while highlighting their creative use of language Through various linguistic devices, literature creates vivid imagery, conveys profound messages, and fosters connections between writers, readers, and characters Increased reading not only enriches our vocabulary but also refines our language proficiency Therefore, the content and artistry of literary works are essential components of any comprehensive language training program.
Teaching literary texts, such as short stories, necessitates a careful examination of figurative language, particularly metaphors, which serve as vital tools for creating analogies and elucidating abstract concepts The absence of metaphors and other figures of speech can render literature lifeless and strip away its inherent beauty When ideas and messages are presented to readers without encouraging contemplation and personal connections, the joy of reading diminishes significantly.
Short stories and metaphors play a crucial role in enhancing language competence among English learners To effectively teach literary texts, educators should focus on selecting suitable short stories that are both diverse in literary devices and of manageable length, typically ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 words These stories often feature relatable themes and accessible language, making them ideal for learners Ultimately, the goal is to engage students with texts that enrich their understanding and use of the English language.
Developing language skills through the analysis of literary tropes is essential for learners Guidance is crucial in helping students understand the power of figurative language, including metaphor, metonymy, simile, personification, and euphemism Among these, metaphors stand out as both challenging and effective rhetorical devices, warranting special attention Teachers should facilitate students' exploration of conceptual metaphors and metaphorical expressions, enabling them to grasp their creation and significance Since metaphors often draw upon common symbolic images such as humanity, fire, life, and death, it is important for learners to identify these symbols and understand their integration into metaphorical language.
Teachers must recognize the importance and methods of teaching literary texts, as literature serves to enhance both literary knowledge and language proficiency Emphasizing figurative language is crucial to help students appreciate its value and the beauty inherent in literary works.
Limitations of and Suggestions for further research
This study explores the conceptual metaphors found in the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin." While it aims to address various phenomena related to conceptual metaphors, it represents only a small segment of the broader research in this area Consequently, the findings are limited and do not fully capture the depth of the subject matter.
Therefore, I hope my research can lay a background for the future researches related to conceptual metaphor in Uncle Tom‘s Cabin and other literature works
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22 Missikova, Gabriela (2003) Linguistic Stylistics Nitra: Univerzita
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39 Jamshidian, S & Motlagh, A A (2020) A Cognitive Black Feminist Study of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead and Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stow Malayer University Available from https://civilica.com/doc/880213/
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Cabin EBook 203 Available from https://fb2bookfree.com/uploads/files/2019-06/1561858295_uncle-toms- cabin-by-harriet-beecher-stowe.pdf
44 Uncle Tom‘s Cabin Available from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uncle_Tom%27s_Cabin
45 Uncle Tom‘s Cabin - Important Quotes Explained Available from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/uncletom/quotes/
―O, ye who take freedom from man, with what words shall ye answer it to God?‖
St Clare informed Tom that he was initiating the legal process for his freedom, declaring, "I'm going to make a free man of you," and instructed him to pack his trunk in preparation for their journey to Kentucky.
2 Container Freedom FREEDOM is CONTAINER
So, when you rejoice in your freedom
3 Money Freedom FREEDOM is MONEY
So, when you rejoice in your freedom, think that you owe it to that good old soul, and pay it back in kindness to his wife and children
"You're afraid of me, Simon, and you've reason to be But be careful, for I've got the devil in me!"
It seemed to her as if strength poured into her in electric streams, from every gentle touch and movement of the sleeping, confiding child
Those words fell on his heart like clods upon a coffin
She seemed to sink, at once, into the bosom of the family, and take the little ones into her heart, as something for which it long had waited
Tom‘s heart was full; he poured it out in prayer, like waters that have been long suppressed
I ought to know such things, I ought to feel about them! Such things always sunk into my heart; they went down deep; I've thought and thought about them
Is it truly possible for a kind family to face such dire circumstances? Unfortunately, even kind families can fall into debt, and the laws in our country permit the heartbreaking act of selling a child away from their mother to settle the family's financial obligations.
She seemed to sink, at once, into the bosom of the family, and take the little ones into her heart, as something for which it long had waited
All these thoughts were rolling and seething in George’s breast
When he hurriedly announced the tidings among his hands, there was a sudden light in Tom’s eye, a sudden upraising of his hands, that did not escape him
6 Good Man MAN is a GOOD
The creature insisted, "I was never born, had no father or mother, and was raised by a speculator along with many others." The child’s sincerity was clear, prompting Jane to chuckle and respond, "Indeed, there are many like you Speculators buy them cheaply when they are young and raise them for the market."
… actually buying a man up, like a horse,— looking at his teeth, cracking his joints, and trying his paces, and then paying down for him
You pretend to be so righteous, but haven't you read in your Bible that 'Servants, obey your masters'? Am I not your master? I paid twelve hundred dollars in cash for everything within your old, cursed shell You belong to me now, body and soul.
If I must be sold, or all the people on the place, and everything go to rack, why, let me be sold I s'pose I can b'ar it as well as any on 'em."
At his grave, I made a solemn vow before God to never own another slave, especially after witnessing individuals who possess helpless children and young women This experience has driven me to the brink of cursing my country and humanity itself.
Lucy, the trader informed, "Your child is gone; it's better you hear it now than later I knew you couldn't take him south, and I've found an opportunity to sell him to a reputable family that will provide a better upbringing than you can."
"I am determined to earn four dollars a week, and my mistress plans to save it all to buy back my husband," said the speaker George responded with surprise, acknowledging the significance of this opportunity.
He sold both children and, after taking me for a ride one day, I returned home to find them missing He revealed that he had sold them and showed me the money he received, a cruel testament to their worth.
―I‘ve had a sister sold in that New Orleans market
I refuse to passively witness the sale of my wife when I have the strength to protect her, knowing her value and the injustice of such actions.
In a shocking revelation, George expresses his disbelief that a kind family could resort to such actions, stating that even loving families can fall into debt He bitterly highlights the harsh reality of the laws in their country, which permit the sale of a child from its mother to settle a master’s debts.
In a moment of defiance, he raised himself, gazing intently at the heavens as tears and blood streamed down his face He declared emphatically, "No! My soul is not yours, Master! You haven't purchased it—it's already been bought and paid for by one who has the power to protect it No matter what you do, you cannot harm me!"
I am George Harris, formerly owned by a Mr Harris from Kentucky Now, I stand as a free man on God's free soil, proudly claiming my wife and child as my own.
7 Human Sleep SLEEP is HUMAN
It seemed to her as if strength poured into her in electric streams, from every gentle touch and movement of the sleeping, confiding child
8 Human Time TIME IS AN HUMAN
In that dizzy moment her feet to her scarce seemed to touch the ground, and a moment brought her to the water‘s edge
9 Human Soul SOUL IS AN HUMAN
Tom fervently prayed for the soul that was departing, feeling a deep connection to the sorrowful gaze reflected in those large, melancholic blue eyes.