Ritual and Language

Ritual is a broad term that includes communally oriented language use, such as politeness, swearing, and humor, and can be found in many different life situations. This book provides a framework for studying ritual language use in different datatypes and languages, with examples from Chinese and Anglophone rituals. It is essential reading for academics and students in pragmatics, applied linguistics, and other fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Ritual, a multifaceted concept often linked to ceremonies, cursing, and etiquette, holds a profound significance that extends far beyond its surface manifestations. In reality, ritual encompasses all instances of communally oriented language use, serving as a powerful tool for social interaction and communication. It manifests itself in various forms throughout our daily lives, from the polite expressions we employ to the profanity we utter in moments of excitement or frustration. Ritual also extends to our interactions in various contexts, from the trash talk exchanged during sports events to the bargaining strategies employed in markets. Moreover, it permeates conventional social pleasantries, adding depth and meaning to our interactions with others.

This groundbreaking book offers a comprehensive introduction to ritual language use, providing a cutting-edge framework that is firmly anchored in language. This framework is designed to be applicable across different data types and languages, making it a valuable resource for scholars and students alike. The book is enriched with a wealth of case studies drawn from Chinese and Anglophone rituals, showcasing the practical application of the framework and its effectiveness in studying ritual.

For academics and students engaged in pragmatics, applied linguistics, and other fields, this book is an essential read. It sheds light on the intricate dynamics of ritual language use, illuminating the ways in which language shapes and influences our social interactions and cultural practices. By exploring the complexities of ritual, this book contributes to our understanding of human communication and society as a whole.

In conclusion, ritual is a multifaceted concept that encompasses language use in communal contexts. This pioneering book provides a comprehensive framework for studying ritual language use, offering valuable insights and practical applications for scholars and students across various disciplines. As we continue to explore the intricacies of human communication and culture, this book will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone in our understanding of the world.

Weight: 539g
ISBN-13: 9781108472968