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The Writing of History and Return of Language: Art History as An Explanation Object-On Hubert Damsich’s “A Theory of /Cloud/”
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 162-168
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 16, 2020
Published: Apr. 23, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.19
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Abstract: Giving a methodological and ontological explanation to the art history is the core thought of “a theory of /cloud/” of Hubert Damisch. It shows that there is no uniform explanation for art history. And the explanation of art history can only be placed in the framework of history. Language is the main reason for this, because it is historical, and through it the art history can be narrated and explained. As an explanatory activity, art history needs to plan a historical horizon which is different from the present, and integrate with the current horizon to explain historical events. Therefore, all art history is bound to be a historical explanation. This is the logic of why art history needs to be constantly renovated. On the other hand, because art history is inseparable from language, it must rely on linguistic methods in the specific analysis process. Taking this as his starting point, Damisch takes semiotics as the dominant method of explaining the art history. In his eyes, semiotics, as a method of combining meaning reading and characterization analysis, can effectively reconcile the contradiction between formal analysis and iconology. Not only that, the symbol as a kind of representation of representation can also make the painting back to the field of representation. Because representation is the basic purpose of painting. As a symbol, cloud precisely emphasizes that painting should pay attention to representation. And the sensibility and materiality of cloud in painting indicates that the painterly should become the mainstream of the representation. This kind of painterly is exactly what “A Theory of /Cloud/” aims to reveal. According to this, the painterly of painting should become the main focus of the writing of art history.
Abstract: Giving a methodological and ontological explanation to the art history is the core thought of “a theory of /cloud/” of Hubert Damisch. It shows that there is no uniform explanation for art history. And the explanation of art history can only be placed in the framework of history. Language is the main reason for this, because it is historical, and t...
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Entangled with Traffic Signs: An Ethnographic Account of Internationals Driving in Mainland China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 169-176
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 30, 2020
Published: Apr. 23, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.20
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Abstract: This study investigates the difficulty of internationals’ driving in non-English Chinese environment by reporting on their encounters and reflections in the traffic contexts. The study adopts a geosemiotic perspective and utilizes an ethnography to study foreigners’ usage of traffic signage in Guangzhou, a major and hub city of Mainland China. It collects the verbal and written data of non-Chinese drivers and Chinese traffic authorities as well as scrutinizing some government standards and news reports on this issue. The study finds that foreign sign users are enculturated to an indigenous Chinese driving practice by assimilating into the local “Chinese-only” driving environment. The empirical findings suggest that traffic signs as one form of discourses in place are keyed to culture contextedness for their comprehension and usage by their users as another form of discourses in action. It is therefore argued that although China with its high-end signing system has stepped into a globalized world, the signing system may be less convenient for foreign drivers to mobilize. The contribution of this research rests with two respects: first, it may appeal to more geosemiotic review of signs in the concrete world; second, this study may be helpful in its attempts to make transportation engineers, urban planners, and law enforcers recognize the importance of Romanized versions of traffic signs addressing foreign drivers in Mainland China.
Abstract: This study investigates the difficulty of internationals’ driving in non-English Chinese environment by reporting on their encounters and reflections in the traffic contexts. The study adopts a geosemiotic perspective and utilizes an ethnography to study foreigners’ usage of traffic signage in Guangzhou, a major and hub city of Mainland China. It c...
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Exploration of Application of Confucian Conception of Critical Thinking in the Teaching English as a Foreign Language in China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 134-141
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 11, 2020
Published: Apr. 14, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.15
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Abstract: Over the past years, fostering critical thinking abilities has become one of the priorities in education in China. So far, much research has been conducted to explore how to resort to Western critical thinking methods to cultivate critical thinking abilities among Chinese students. Meanwhile, among much research in incorporating Confucian educational thought into current English teaching in China, little research has been done to explore the possibility of rendering Confucian conception of critical thinking to this endeavor. This paper argues that Confucian conception of critical thinking possesses similar complementary components to those of the Western conception of critical thinking. Through literature review and text analysis, this paper reviews the Confucian conception of critical thinking and the socio-cultural background that impact its development. Reflection on a case study and field observation shows that Confucian “enlightening approach” works effectively in today’s effort in critical thinking cultivation in English teaching; Confucius’ description of five-phase comprehensive learning process could be materialized in English teaching to progress from lower level learning (knowledge, comprehension, application) towards higher level learning (analysis, synthesis, and evaluation); Confucian conception of critical thinking, described as “contextual critique’ by some Western scholar, could complement Western critical thinking in a positive way. The paper suggests in-depth research in constructing the theoretical framework for the Confucian conception of critical thinking, investigation of other approaches to foster critical thinking abilities besides the “enlightening approach,” and thorough studies of current empirical research on critical thinking in TEFL in China so as to see how they can be applied in materializing Confucian conception of critical thinking.
Abstract: Over the past years, fostering critical thinking abilities has become one of the priorities in education in China. So far, much research has been conducted to explore how to resort to Western critical thinking methods to cultivate critical thinking abilities among Chinese students. Meanwhile, among much research in incorporating Confucian education...
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Criticizing School-related Gender-based Violence: A Cultural Analysis on the Music Video Womxnly
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 142-147
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 18, 2020
Published: Apr. 14, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.16
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Abstract: Gender-based violence, a deeply-rooted violence directed against a person because of their gender, remains one of the most notable human rights violations in all societies. Both women and men experience gender-based violence. It is school-related in many cases and often occurs in and around schools, so it is sometimes referred to as “school-related gender-based violence” (shortened as SRGBV). As one of the manifestations of gender-based violence, SRGBV is complex and multifaceted and attracts great attention from the international community. Applying such cultural theories as carnival theory, the other image, gender performativity, the functions of arts and popular culture, the present essay concentrates on the practitioners of diverse gender temperament like “sissy”, “tomboy” or “gender fluid” in SRGBV and analyzes how the composers of the music video Womxnly achieve their goal to draw the public attention to the MV and to arouse social respect of gender diversity in schools. The essay is divided into four sections with the first giving the social background and purpose of the MV, the second introducing the cultural theories used in the production of the MV, the third analyzing the MV in details respectively from the perspective of music, video and cultural studies, and the last concluding the research in this paper.
Abstract: Gender-based violence, a deeply-rooted violence directed against a person because of their gender, remains one of the most notable human rights violations in all societies. Both women and men experience gender-based violence. It is school-related in many cases and often occurs in and around schools, so it is sometimes referred to as “school-related...
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The Digitalization of Lifestyle in a Digital Era: A Case Study of WeChat in China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 119-126
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Apr. 08, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.13
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Abstract: Digitalization has been identified as one of the most significant trends that change society, business, and people’s lives and has attracted academic attention from different fields. This study aims to investigate how digitalization, with the adoption of far-ranging digital technologies, has changed individuals’ lifestyles in China. WeChat was taken as an example to illustrate how digital social media, a typical digital technology, penetrates every aspect of individuals’ life and thus changes people’s lifestyles. To obtain in-depth insights about individuals’ perceptions and views towards the influence of WeChat, a semi-structured interview was conducted. Thirty respondents were interviewed, and three functionalities, namely Chats, Official Accounts and WeChat Pay, emerged as the most influential and were selected for detailed discussion. With cultural studies theories and through detailed analysis, the paper found that empowered by digital technologies, Chats has transformed individuals’ communicative practices to be hyper-texted and highly interactive; Official Accounts has created a platform for individuals to follow news and express ideas, a practice that was confined to professionals only; thus, a publishing public has emerged; and WeChat Pay has revolutionized how people shop and consume and access civil service. That is, the lifestyle of individuals is digitalized in China.
Abstract: Digitalization has been identified as one of the most significant trends that change society, business, and people’s lives and has attracted academic attention from different fields. This study aims to investigate how digitalization, with the adoption of far-ranging digital technologies, has changed individuals’ lifestyles in China. WeChat was take...
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The Subversion of Identity from Princesses to Queens - A Cultural Study on Feminism in Maleficent
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 127-133
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Apr. 08, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.14
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Abstract: Disney films have long been known as adapting classic fairy tales or legends from all over the world and creating distinctive princess images, among which, the development of different princess images manifests relative values in corresponding periods. Maleficent is adapted from the animated film Sleeping Beauty with similar story arrangements on the continuation of Sleeping Beauty as the main line. With the witch Maleficent as the narrative subject, the film subverts the traditional image of the witch under the patriarchal discourse, especially with respect to the subversion of the characters and themes. The deconstruction and reconstruction of the characters of different genders based on feminism shows the marginalization of male characters and the centralization of the female characters. The film is also characterized by postmodernism, reflecting the clinginess of the theme to the feminist values the US intends to convey. The subversion of characters and themes in the film is the product of the current social environment, which not only captures the spirit of the age, but also conforms to the psychological expectations of the audience in the new era. The paper first gives a general introduction and then provides a relevant literature review on feminism as well as postmodernism, and the development of feminism displayed in Disney princess films in different periods. Next, the paper analyzes the film Maleficent based on its progress from previous films, the centralization and marginalization of characters and the subversion of the theme, describing women's resistance to patriarchy and the subversion of identity. Last, the paper draws a conclusion and comments on the values of feminism delivered from Disney films.
Abstract: Disney films have long been known as adapting classic fairy tales or legends from all over the world and creating distinctive princess images, among which, the development of different princess images manifests relative values in corresponding periods. Maleficent is adapted from the animated film Sleeping Beauty with similar story arrangements on t...
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On the Exportation of Soft Power in Globalization with the Exemplification of the Film Wolf warrior (II)
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 100-107
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 12, 2020
Published: Apr. 08, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.11
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Abstract: In globalization culture is capitalized and invested as a commodity. But the commodified culture not only makes money for an exporter but also disseminates its cultural values with another culture. Both the success of the film Wolf Warrior (II) at home and its failure to be a hit abroad lend weight to the argument. The pros and cons about it evidence the on-going status quo of cultural exchange in One Way One Belt (“The Belt and Road Initiative”) the Chinese global project. Therefore this research makes endeavors to prove the power that story telling particularly the narrative trinity: event, plot and story make money on the one hand and on the other works as site of pedagogy where people learn and experience. This way people find the power as such congenial and innocuous. Thereupon the film director Jing Wu chooses the events as can be seen in the film and “strings” them in such a way that the Chinese viewers are mad about it whereas the viewers abroad especially those in the West sort of turn it down. The striking contrast in box office suggests the fact that cinematic experience is a process of negotiation between director and film goer, which Director Wu has to take into good consideration if he expects to make a hit with his film next time abroad.
Abstract: In globalization culture is capitalized and invested as a commodity. But the commodified culture not only makes money for an exporter but also disseminates its cultural values with another culture. Both the success of the film Wolf Warrior (II) at home and its failure to be a hit abroad lend weight to the argument. The pros and cons about it eviden...
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A Comparative Study of the Interpretations of Emojis in Between U.S. and Chinese Users
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 3, May 2020
Pages: 108-118
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 12, 2020
Published: Apr. 08, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200803.12
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Abstract: In recent years, Emojis have permeated online communications. They constantly show up in text messages, chats and emails, playing a significant role in business and daily interaction. Although designed to replace language text and to convert some universal emotions through icons, there are no rules governing people how to correctly define the sentiments behind them. Therefore, users with different cultural background may interpret emojis differently. This have often led to misinterpretation and miscommunication from different user groups. This study examines the correlation of the sentiments felt from a group of U.S. users versus a group of Chinese users by having them rate their sentiments from positive to negative for the top 15 most popularly used emojis. The survey was circulated in U.S. and China respectively and received 402 responses. The study weighted the scores of both user groups and analyzed the reasons behind the misalignment, including the structure of the icon, the local culture background etc. It founded that of the 15 emojis tested, over 60% of them had major or minor interpretation differences between the U.S. users and the Chinese users, and only 40% were aligned. The final conclusion was that the sentiment that the user intended to send with an emoji may not be received to the degree that it was intended among U.S. and Chinese users.
Abstract: In recent years, Emojis have permeated online communications. They constantly show up in text messages, chats and emails, playing a significant role in business and daily interaction. Although designed to replace language text and to convert some universal emotions through icons, there are no rules governing people how to correctly define the senti...
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Stereotyping as a Barrier in Intercultural Marketing: An Analysis of Public Online Comments on Dolce & Gabbana’s Incident in China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 70-80
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 16, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.16
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Abstract: This study investigates online comments on major social platforms following Dolce & Gabbana (D & G)’s promotional video Eating with Chopsticks in 2018 and the apology video released afterwards. By employing self-reference criterion (Browne, 2013), crisis communication and image restoration (Mair, Ritchie & Walters, 2016), it first analyzes D & G’s stereotypes of the Chinese in the promotional video, then it further examines the cultural stereotypes and relative crisis communication strategies adopted by D & G. It is found that D&G's stereotype of the Chinese people can be reflected in the slanted eyes of the Chinese model, the background of the video and the comparison of chopsticks to small sticks. The Chinese people’s stereotype of D&G can be indicated in the reaction to the promotional video as well as cultural misunderstanding in the crisis communication. It is thus argued that in designing promotional materials and managing crisis, international marketers need to be aware of various cultural stereotypes and take the cultural values of local consumers into full consideration, and such principles as empathy, mutual respect and mutual understanding need to be at international marketers’ top priority. The purpose is to shed some light on intercultural marketing design and crisis communication for international corporations.
Abstract: This study investigates online comments on major social platforms following Dolce & Gabbana (D & G)’s promotional video Eating with Chopsticks in 2018 and the apology video released afterwards. By employing self-reference criterion (Browne, 2013), crisis communication and image restoration (Mair, Ritchie & Walters, 2016), it first analyzes D & G’s ...
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A Pragmatic Study of Apologies Posted on Weibo by Chinese Celebrities
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 52-61
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.14
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Abstract: As we are living in the “Age of Apology” (Brooks, 1999), our ability to say “I’m sorry” does matter considerably, for an appropriate apology would not only express regret but also contribute to interpersonal relationship management and image restoration. Although apology as a social phenomenon has been extensively studied in the English-speaking world, Chinese apologies have not drawn due attention from linguists and management scientists. This paper investigates formal apologies made by Chinese celebrities between 2018 and 2019 in the context of social media by scrutinizing 30 cases collected from Weibo, a Chinese micro-blogging site. Based on Cross-Cultural Speech Act Realization Patterns (CCSARP) and image repair strategies, it is found that (1) IFID (Illocutionary Force Indicating Device) is the most common strategy in apologies, followed by Explanation or Account, whereas Offer of Repair is the least; (2) In terms of image restoration, Chinese celebrities tend to employ Reduce Offensiveness and Mortification to offset negative impressions; (3) Being shamed or being embarrassed (“羞愧”) and self-examination (“反省”) are specific IFID types in Chinese, and some mitigation strategies distinct from those in other languages are found. The research has revealed the specific features of Chinese apologies on social media and will shed light on ways of image management for the ordinary Chinese in general and Chinese celebrities in particular.
Abstract: As we are living in the “Age of Apology” (Brooks, 1999), our ability to say “I’m sorry” does matter considerably, for an appropriate apology would not only express regret but also contribute to interpersonal relationship management and image restoration. Although apology as a social phenomenon has been extensively studied in the English-speaking wo...
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Problems and Solutions in Dual Educational Transformations in Contemporary China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 62-69
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 11, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.15
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Abstract: The transformation of social civilization requires corresponding transformation of education. Contemporary China is undergoing a dual transformation of modernization and post modernization of educational models, each of which involves educational concepts, educational goals, disciplines and settings and a series of other factors, such as teaching methods, the relationship between teaching and learning, and the evaluation of teaching effectiveness, all of which constitute a systematic project. The modernization of education in China can be achieved by learning from the modernized educational models in developed Western countries and regions and by promoting international cooperation in education. As there is no established model for postmodern educational transformation to learn from, we need to take the initiative to face the problems emerging in the transformation and explore them actively in order to find solutions in the context of international cooperation. The modernization of education requires us to shift from the traditional focus on knowledge to the equal emphasis on knowledge and skills together, and to cultivate students' self-directed learning ability. Postmodern educational models are on the way to form up. However, if we make full use of new media and information technology to cultivate students’ aesthetic consciousness and ability that embody the entertainment trend of postmodern culture, as well as other characteristics in internet+, culture+ society, we will probably achieve a great progress in the transformation.
Abstract: The transformation of social civilization requires corresponding transformation of education. Contemporary China is undergoing a dual transformation of modernization and post modernization of educational models, each of which involves educational concepts, educational goals, disciplines and settings and a series of other factors, such as teaching m...
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Developing Primary EFL Students’ Multiliteracies Competence Through Drama Teaching: A Case Study in China
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 46-51
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.13
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Abstract: Multiliteracies competence has emerged as an important research field, yet it remains a great challenge for primary EFL teachers in China to develop students’ multiliteracies competence. With the implementation of educational reform in K12 education in China, the importance of cultivating multiliteracies competence for primary school students has become increasingly prominent. Meanwhile, in the current K12 education curriculum in China, the practice of offering English drama courses caters to the needs of enhancing students’ multiliteracies competence. This qualitative study aims to exlore: (1) how are dramas taught in primary EFL classes in China? (2) how is students’ multiliteracies competence developed through learning drama? The participant of this longitudinal narrative inquiry is an EFL teacher at a primary school in Southern China. Data include two-semester-long observation of the English drama classes in the school, weekly meetings on drama teaching, workshops with foreign drama experts and interview narratives, as well as documents such as the participants’ lesson plans, journals and students’ feedback. Findings show that EFL drama teaching in the primary school adopts multiliteracies pedagogy, drawing on a range of media and aiming to develop students’ all-around skills. Findings also reveal that students’ language competence and multiliteracies competence are indeed greatly enhanced through drama teaching and learning. Implications for further teacher development are discussed, including offering English drama education in pre-service programs, enhancing acting skills mentoring in internship and in-service training, and observing and reflecting on one’s own and their peers’ drama teaching practices and raising their multiliteracies awareness and intercultural awareness.
Abstract: Multiliteracies competence has emerged as an important research field, yet it remains a great challenge for primary EFL teachers in China to develop students’ multiliteracies competence. With the implementation of educational reform in K12 education in China, the importance of cultivating multiliteracies competence for primary school students has b...
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Decoding the Mystery Behind the Globalization of Chinese Time-honored Brands -- A Case Analysis of Lao Gan Ma Chili Sauce
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 87-92
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.18
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Abstract: Globalization creates a complexly interrelated arena where multiple local differences converge and compete against each other. With respect to its consequent potential impact on various local cultures, Western dominant cultures have been believed as the ultimate destiny for the modernizing cultures under this fast-changing global context, as is more often proved in business where countless companies in developing nations have been keen on learning from Western business giants in the names of modern enterprise administration or international conventions. An originally underprivileged Chinese brand, Lao Gan Ma Chili Sauce, however, has established an invaluably different developmental route by branding with strong Chinese flavors and exposing itself as a miniature of indigenous cultures, successfully growing into a worldwide Chinese cooperation in the past decades. Decoding the mystery underlying its success therefore of significance in cross-cultural business studies. Applying such cultural theories as cultural identity, symbolic consumption and instinct theory, the present study analyzes the business strategies Lao Gan Ma conducts. The qualitative study in this essay demonstrates that cultural resources of a firm are potentially convertible into its powerful capital in the fierce competing world market. More specifically, a unique cultural identity and certain perceived symbolic values retained by a business corporation can serve as alternative and desirable resources to make that firm, especially one in less affluent societies, a competitive contender in the globalized market system. Besides, enterprises whose products cater to the human inner instinct can enjoy exceptional advantages in their penetration into the global market.
Abstract: Globalization creates a complexly interrelated arena where multiple local differences converge and compete against each other. With respect to its consequent potential impact on various local cultures, Western dominant cultures have been believed as the ultimate destiny for the modernizing cultures under this fast-changing global context, as is mor...
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Redefining “Actress”--Deconstruction of the Traditional “Actress” Image in Jia Ling’s Sketch “Titanic”
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 93-99
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 10, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.19
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Abstract: In show business, female have long suffered unfair treatment and are constantly required to live up to the expectations from the society. With the passage of time, as what was already summarized by Simone de Beauvoir in The Second Sex, female celebrities are turned into “actress” in a certain manner. However, as a special existence in show business, Jia Ling intentionally deviates from the stereotype of female image in media to amuse the public and gradually earns her subjectivity in the crosstalk field. The female images presented in her sketch to some extent resist the hegemonic power imposed by the patriarchal society and may as well serve to criticize the cliche of female image, thus her sketch is of great significance for in-depth cultural analysis. On that basis, this essay has selected her popular sketch “Titanic” as the text by way of close reading to explore the cultural connotation from the perspective of popular culture, which more specifically covers the characteristics of clinginess and subversion in popular culture. In the mean time, the use of deconstructionism and carnival theory also contribute to the cultural understanding of the sketch. The image presented by Jia Ling therefore shows resistance to the undergone by actress or to a larger extent female as a whole and present Jia’s independent thought and personal glamour. And popular culture, deconstructionism and carnival theory share one common feature in that they all have the power of resistance and criticism, which can be selected as the theoretical tool in interpreting the accumulated and circulated stereotype of actress and realizing the empowerment of female in general in the society.
Abstract: In show business, female have long suffered unfair treatment and are constantly required to live up to the expectations from the society. With the passage of time, as what was already summarized by Simone de Beauvoir in The Second Sex, female celebrities are turned into “actress” in a certain manner. However, as a special existence in show business...
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Vernacular: Its Features, Relativity, Functions and Social Significance
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 81-86
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 16, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.17
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Abstract: In daily communication, people use different language varieties when contacting each other depending on different social contexts determined by factors such as participants, the setting and the topic. The use of different language varieties bears different functions or social significance. Generally, the more formal the language between participants is, the more distant their relationship; the more informal the language between participants is, the more intimate their relationship. Usually, people in the same region communicate with each other in regional dialects; people from the same social stratum or class communicate with each other in social dialects; people who are well-educated or distant in relationship or who do not share the same language or culture communicate with each other in standard language; and people from the same community or region, who are intimate to each other or who share one language or one culture communicate with each other in vernacular language. In nearly every speech community, there exists a certain vernacular language. Vernacular language is indigenous, native or local, spoken either by a rural or urban speech community, or by a lower social class; it is informal, or casual, or the least standardized; it is contrastively used with standard language; it is uncodified, but when there is a need, it is codified through the use of the dominant language, i.e., usually the standard language; its existence relies heavily on the dominant language; it is usually acquired as a first variety in the home; it is featured by colloquialisms, vulgarisms, substandard forms, and slang. There are hundreds of vernacular languages throughout the world, there. Vernacular languages, often used for a relatively narrow range of informal functions, include ethnic or tribal languages which are usually the first languages learned by people from those ethnic or tribal groups. The most typical example of vernacular language is Black English Vernacular in America. Vernacular language is even used by some writers in their literary works – Mark Twain in his The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Dante in his Divine Comedy. Vernacular language may become a standard language if standard language becomes outdated or is abandoned by the public. It is indispensable in daily communication as it is complementary to standard language. It can never be regarded as sub-standard or inadequate, however, as it is an important language variety.
Abstract: In daily communication, people use different language varieties when contacting each other depending on different social contexts determined by factors such as participants, the setting and the topic. The use of different language varieties bears different functions or social significance. Generally, the more formal the language between participant...
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Rethinking the Boundary Between Human and Nonhuman: Jeanette Winterson’s The stone gods as a Transgression Experiment
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 33-38
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 11, 2020
Published: Mar. 31, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.11
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Abstract: As a world-famous writer, Jeanette Winterson, as well as her novels, have been well-known for her lesbian theme and love theme. Little attention has been paid to the theme of transgression. However, studies have shown that transgression experiment is also the key theme through all of the novels by Jeanette Winterson. In the Stone Gods, she still keeps this narrative style and gives an attempt to stir the people to re-evaluate the boundary between human and nonhuman, attracting much more attention to the issues of transgression experiment and the result after transgression. In this paper, based on the Jenks’ theory of transgression, we found out that there are two ways that (1) broadening the definition of body;(2) breaking the boundary between human and environment, which could be accepted to attempt to explore the issues of boundary between human and nonhuman to examine whether the boundary could be crossed in The Stone Gods. In these ways, it is found out that the real aim when Winterson regards the novel as a transgression experiment is to not merely break a rule, rebel against normative social and cultural constraints, but rather lead a dynamic trend in cultural production and diverse discourse, in order to stimulate readers to have dynamic thought about everything.
Abstract: As a world-famous writer, Jeanette Winterson, as well as her novels, have been well-known for her lesbian theme and love theme. Little attention has been paid to the theme of transgression. However, studies have shown that transgression experiment is also the key theme through all of the novels by Jeanette Winterson. In the Stone Gods, she still ke...
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From Art to Cure: The Three Stages of Theoretical Development of Ancient Chinese Painting from Pre-Qin to Qing Dynasty
Issue: Volume 8, Issue 2, March 2020
Pages: 39-45
Received: Feb. 27, 2020
Accepted: Mar. 11, 2020
Published: Mar. 23, 2020
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijla.20200802.12
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Abstract: Ancient Chinese paintings, compared with traditional Western oil paintings that featured realistic depiction, seem mysterious enough to go beyond comprehension to Westerners. It could be traced back to one of the fundamental divergences in history when ancient Chinese painters and critics took a path not taken by their Western counterparts at the theoretical development crossroad over a thousand years ago: the former started to strive not for realistic drawing skills improvement but for the spiritual connection between the object and the painting. In the theoretical development of ancient Chinese painting, it marks the critical turning point from the first imitation stage of pursuing xingsi (formal likeness) to the intermediate second stage of seeking shensi (spiritual resemblance); and eventually in its third stage, painting became a constitutional part of Chinese ancients' lifestyle when it switched for a breakthrough from figure painting to landscape painting that laid more emphasis on subjective xieyi (intent-expression) which, by taking on a form of catharsis, played an extremely important role in the life of ancient painters and painting-lovers. That is when painting was endowed with a new function of more realistic importance: it was viewed by ancient Chinese as something more than art but therapeutic as a cure to relieve their miseries and pains by way of self-expression or aesthetic resonances. Imbibing the Taoist philosophy renowned for its profound effect on health preserving, specifically its aesthetic and contemplative attitude towards life advocated by Zhuangzi, these ancient Chinese painters and their audience sought xieyi and all-pervading oneness by blending themselves with the universe to find their own spiritual healing power.
Abstract: Ancient Chinese paintings, compared with traditional Western oil paintings that featured realistic depiction, seem mysterious enough to go beyond comprehension to Westerners. It could be traced back to one of the fundamental divergences in history when ancient Chinese painters and critics took a path not taken by their Western counterparts at the t...
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