Explore the range of linguistic and stylistic effects Essay Example for Free

Explore the range of linguistic and stylistic effects Essay Remind yourself of Act II Scene I beginning with the first speech by Owen, Now where have we got to? to the end of Hughs speech, Gentlemen. [he leaves]. Explore the range of linguistic and stylistic effects used here by Friel to bring out the central themes and issues of the play. In the play Translations Brian Friel explores many issues, one of which is the process of naming. The play is based on the introduction of the first Ordnance Survey, bringing with it the inevitability of anglicizing place names. In the extract naming is emphasised by constant references to various places in Ireland, and their English equivalents; for example Bun na hAbhann Burnfoot! . The link between a place and historical events is also emphasised; And you place names-what was the one we came across this morning? -Termon, from Terminus, the god of boundaries. The theme of naming is very closely linked to the loss which occurs as a result. As place names are anglicized, something is lost. Communities such as Baile Beag lose their cultural and political identities, and the original meaning is distorted. Friel used the theme of naming to highlight this loss of identity within the Irish community. The importance of names is also stressed in the repetition of place names: Owen: Bun na hAbhann Yolland: Again Owen: Bun na hAbhann Yolland: Bun na hAbhann Friel uses mapping, both literally and metaphorically, in order to convey his ideas. The actual mapping for the Ordnance Survey is maintained by Owens constant gesture of referring to the map which he and Yolland are working from. This is shown in the stage direction Owen returns to the map. Gestures such as this are used to great effect by Friel. Mapping is used metaphorically through Hughs speech, where, using the semantic field of geography, he talks of a linguistic contour and landscape of fact. The metaphor of codes is also used by Friel to express the complexity of language, and to express the idea that although one may learn a language, the true language of a community and the secrets which it holds are often difficult to decode. However, Friel does offer some hope, as Owen, Manus and Hugh have all learnt to decode the English language. Hugh is a character who, although is slightly self-deluded, is also a learned person. He speaks with intelligence, and always in Standard English; I like to think we endure around truths immemorially posited. Hugh often uses linguistic terms, such as a syntax opulent with tomorrows, and makes use of an analogy-you dont dispose of the cow just because it has produced a magnificent calf, do you? -in order to communicate his message to Yolland. Hugh is an educated man, who uses many literary features in his everyday speech, and is one of the few characters who realises Irelands inevitable future. This shows Friels desire to emphasise the importance of education for the new, modern world.