In this seminar, we delve into the dynamic landscape of cognitive-linguistic research on English metaphor and metonymy, exploring a diverse range of theories and methodologies - and the many ways they intersect. In doing so, we critically engage with how figurative language not only reflects but also reinforces cultural worldviews, social hierarchies, and identity constructs.
Special attention is given to the gendered dimensions of metaphor and metonymy: How do metaphors shape and perpetuate gender roles in media, politics, science, or everyday conversation? How can metaphor analysis uncover implicit biases or challenge normative gender scripts?
Our exploration spans fields such as lexicology, phraseology, and morphology, but also ventures into the realms of political rhetoric, scientific narratives, social media discourse, cross-cultural variation, and emotional expression. Students are invited to pursue their own empirical research projects, possibly examining metaphorical patterns in gendered language or comparing figurative strategies across genders and cultures. To support your investigations, part of our seminar will be dedicated to practical training in empirical research methods, corpus analysis, and critical discourse analysis - tools essential for uncovering the subtle interplay between language, cognition, and social identity.
- Dozent/in: Julia Landmann