THE LINGUISTIC HUMOR OF METAPHORICAL POLYSEMY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47390/SPR1342V4SI10Y2024N26Keywords:
metaphorical polysemy, humor, English literature, semantic ambiguity, irony, cultural frameworksAbstract
Metaphorical polysemy, characterized by the coexistence of literal and figurative meanings in linguistic expressions, is a central mechanism in English humor, particularly in literary contexts. This paper explores the humorous potential of metaphorical polysemy, focusing on examples from canonical English literature, including the works of Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, and Jane Austen. By analyzing how authors use polysemous metaphors to create irony, satire, and wit, the study uncovers the interplay between semantic ambiguity and reader cognition. Findings emphasize the cultural and interpretative frameworks that amplify the humor in polysemous expressions, showcasing their enduring appeal in literature and beyond.
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