Systemic Functional Linguistics2.pptVIP

Multiple Themes In accordance with the three meanings of language, namely textual, interpersonal and experiential meanings. The multiple themes are terms as: Textual Theme Interpersonal Theme Experiential Theme/Topical Theme Textual Theme The textual Theme is any combination of 1) continuative, 2) structural and 3) conjunctives. Continuatives: discourse signallers, a response in dialogue (yes, no, well, oh, now) Structural: Tables 3(4) and 3(5) Conjunctive: Conjunctive adjuncts in Table 3(2) Characteristic Themes: obligatorily thematic Characteristic Themes Interpersonal Theme Interpersonal Them is any combination of 1) vocative, 2) modal, and 3) mood-marking. Vocative is typically a personal name, used to address; Modal Theme is any of the modal Adjuncts listed in Table 3(3); A mood-marking Theme is a Finite verbal operator. Characteristic Themes: typically thematic Multiple Themes Multiple Themes The meaning of Theme choice When the topical Theme of a declarative clause is not the Subject, it gains a greater textual prominence. The ‘marked’ Theme are often important in structuring the larger discourse. Someday, you’ll understand that. Jasmine, I love the smell of. The meaning of Theme choice The Finite, typically realized by an auxiliary verb. Its presence in thematic position signals that a response is expected, as in: Should they be doing that? Are you coming? Don’t touch that! The meaning of Theme choice A WH-element, signalling that an ‘answer’ is required from the addressee: Why can’t you come over tonight? How did school shape up? A Vocative, identifying the addressee in the exchange: Mr. Wolf, may we cross your golden waters? The meaning of Theme choice An adjunct, typically realized by adverb. It provides the speaker’s comment, argument or attitude towards the message. For example: Sadly, it doesn’t like the old places will be around much longer. Perhaps women make better vets. THANK YOU * * * Systemic Function