POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE POLITENESS STRATEGIES IN JANE AUSTEN'S “EMMA”

Аннотация

This study examines the use of positive and negative politeness strategies in Jane Austen's Emma from the perspective of pragmatic linguistics. Based on Brown and Levinson's Politeness Theory, the research investigates how the novel's characters employ different politeness strategies to maintain interpersonal relationships, express respect, and negotiate social hierarchy. The analysis focuses on selected dialogues involving Emma Woodhouse, Mr. Knightley, Harriet Smith, and Mr. Elton, illustrating how politeness contributes to characterization and narrative development. The findings reveal that positive politeness strategies strengthen solidarity and mutual understanding, whereas negative politeness strategies help preserve personal autonomy and minimize face-threatening acts. The study concludes that Austen deliberately employs politeness strategies to portray the social values, gender roles, and cultural conventions of Regency England while enriching the communicative depth of her characters.