A Mood Structure Analytical Study of Invocation in Dramatic Discourse

International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

© 2019 by SSRG - IJHSS Journal

Volume 6 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2019

Authors : Subhanan Mandal

10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V6I6P114

How to Cite?

Subhanan Mandal, "A Mood Structure Analytical Study of Invocation in Dramatic Discourse," SSRG International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 6,  no. 6, pp. 102-106, 2019. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V6I6P114

Abstract:

The Mood Structure model proposed by Michael Halliday under the Systematic Functional Linguistic Analysis processes examines the temper of the conversation under study. The facilitation in the use of this approach is essentially two fold. Firstly, the MS model facilitates linguistic analysis by tagging the lexemes/ phrases under several marked pre-determined grammatical categories which help to formulate an idea about the language in use. Secondly, rather consecutively, the mood of the utterance can be understood which helps in appropriate semantic interpretation of the selected discourse. In this study’s selected discourse, the speaker is speaking in solitude and invoking the supernatural spirits to bring about a change in attributes attached to femininity, humanity and sense of morality. An analysis of such invocation will facilitate the readers of the play- Macbeth to decipher linguistically as well as realistically the actual idea and thought the speaker intended to convey. This paper has taken into consideration the fifth scene of the first act. Herein, she wishes to get rid of all her conscience and take the path of immorality, dishonesty, deceit, murder and treachery as she believes no other means could lead her husband to the much desired achievement of being the Supremo of the land he is a Thane now. The MS approach will therefore enable understanding not only the situational circumstances behind her desired act but also bring out the characteristic features of character which is rooted deep in her and the shade which she seeks to inherit in her.

Keywords:

Mood Structure, Systematic Functional Linguistics, Invocation, Discourse, Drama

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