VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGE AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES FACULTY OF POST GRADUATE STUDIES NGÔ CẨM TÚ CONCEPTUAL METAPHOR IN ―UNCLE TOM’S CABIN‖ FROM COGNITIVE LINGUISTICS PE[.]
INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the research
Figurative language, particularly metaphor, remains a fascinating and inspiring area of research due to its profound influence on language and daily communication Despite extensive studies on metaphor and metaphorical expressions, ongoing investigation is necessary to deepen our understanding Metaphors play a crucial role not only in linguistic analysis but also in everyday life, as many people use metaphorical concepts subconsciously without realizing it As highlighted in George Lakoff’s "Metaphors We Live By," metaphors shape our thoughts, perceptions, and interactions seamlessly embedded in daily language.
According to Lakoff and Johnson (1980), metaphor is pervasive in everyday life, influencing not only language but also thought and action This highlights the powerful role of metaphor as a tool that enhances communication, shaping how people perceive and engage with the world through language.
Literature serves as an ideal foundation for exploring the concept of metaphor, as it both reflects real life and embodies imaginative expression The language in literature is uniquely equipped to depict metaphors from everyday and extraordinary perspectives, making it a rich source for authentic and diverse figurative language Through its vivid imagery and powerful stylistic effects, literature provides invaluable insights into how metaphors function to enhance meaning and emotional impact Consequently, many researchers utilize literature as a primary tool to study language and metaphoric expression, aiming to uncover deeper understanding of conceptual metaphors This paper focuses on investigating conceptual metaphors within literary works to advance our knowledge of figurative language in literature.
Harriet Elisabeth Beecher Stowe (June 14, 1811 – July 1, 1896) was a prominent American author and abolitionist from the renowned Beecher family She wrote thirty books, including novels, travel memoirs, and collections of articles and letters, and was influential both for her literary work and her active engagement in social debates Stowe is best known for her best-selling anti-slavery novel, *Uncle Tom's Cabin* (1852), which vividly portrays the brutal conditions faced by enslaved African Americans The book reached millions of readers in the United States and Great Britain, fueling the abolitionist movement in the North and igniting controversy in the South As a reader, I have read *Uncle Tom's Cabin* multiple times since childhood, and it remains one of my favorite literary works, deeply resonating with me through its powerful plot, meaningful characters, and impactful message.
This paper investigates the use of conceptual metaphors in Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin," aiming to deepen understanding of metaphorical language in literature The study seeks to contribute to scholarly research on literary metaphors and enhance the teaching and learning of foreign literature for English students.
Aim and objectives of the research
This study explores the use of conceptual metaphors in Harriet Beecher Stowe's short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin" from a cognitive linguistics perspective It investigates how various conceptual metaphors are generated throughout the narrative and analyzes their role in shaping the story’s themes The research further categorizes these metaphors to better understand their contribution to literary meaning and reader perception By examining the metaphorical frameworks in the story, the study sheds light on how cognitive linguistics enhances our interpretation of literary texts and deepens comprehension of underlying messages.
Research questions
In order to achieve the above aim and objectives, the study tries to seek out the answers to the following research questions:
- What conceptual metaphors are generated in the short story?
- How can we categorize these conceptual metaphors?
This research investigates the pervasive use of conceptual metaphors throughout the story, emphasizing the importance of exploring metaphors derived from diverse linguistic resources Categorization plays a crucial role in cognitive linguistics, aiding in the systematic analysis of metaphorical expressions and enhancing our understanding of how language shapes conceptual understanding By examining these metaphors and their categorization, the study aims to reveal the integral role of metaphor in narrative comprehension and cognitive processes.
Conceptual metaphors can be categorized in many different ways based on the researcher‘s understanding, experience and interpretation That is the underlying assumption for the second research question.
Scope of the research
This research is grounded in the foundational theories of Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Lakoff and Turner (1989), and Lakoff (2006), along with other key scholars in conceptual metaphor studies The study analyzes the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe to explore how metaphorical language shapes literary meaning and reader perception Employing a conceptual metaphor framework, this research examines the use of metaphors to reveal deeper social and cultural themes embedded within the narrative The findings contribute to understanding the role of metaphors in literature and their impact on conveying complex ideas.
Research on conceptual metaphors explores various issues like frames and image schemas, but this study intentionally excludes these topics to focus on its specific aims Additionally, the investigation did not predefine any particular types of conceptual metaphors, aiming instead to identify any and all metaphors that emerge during the analysis.
Significance of the research
Metaphor is a fundamental phenomenon in human language that offers insights into both linguistic usage and the human mind Studying metaphors enhances our understanding of language cognition and has practical implications for improving second language teaching and learning This research analyzes metaphorical expressions in literary works, such as *Uncle Tom’s Cabin*, through the lens of Conceptual Metaphor Theory Combining theoretical analysis with empirical research, the study contributes to literature analysis and deepens our comprehension of metaphor's role in literature and language education.
Structure of the thesis
This research comprises five chapters:
Chapter I – Introduction – This chapter discusses the rationale, aim and objectives, research questions, scope and significance of the study
Chapter II – Literature review & Theoretical Background – This chapter discusses the fundamental concepts that function the foundations for the study such as metaphor, conceptual metaphors, categorization of metaphors Previous studies related to the research were also analyzed to shed light on the methodology, the data analysis, the findings and discussions of the thesis
Chapter III – Methodology – This chapter discusses the research approach, data analysis, data analytical framework of the study
Chapter IV – Findings & Discussions – This chapter presents the data and discusses the results of the study
Chapter V – Conclusion – This chapter summarizes the findings, discusses the limitations and makes suggestions for further research.
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL
Introduction
Historically, metaphors have been studied by linguists for many years Traditional linguistics viewed metaphor merely as a figure of speech used in literature However, since the late 20th century, cognitive linguistics revolutionized this perspective with Lakoff and Johnson's influential book, "Metaphors We Live By" (1980) This work introduced the concept of core conceptual metaphors, marking a pivotal shift in metaphor research Today, metaphor is recognized not only as a literary device but also as a pervasive element in everyday language, serving as a fundamental way of thinking and a crucial tool for cognition that helps humans understand and navigate the world.
According to Lakoff and Johnson (1980), human thought and action are fundamentally shaped by metaphorical systems, leading to extensive studies of cognitively and conceptually metaphorical language across diverse cultures This research underpins the development of Conceptual Metaphor Theory, as discussed by Gibbs (1994), who distinguishes between metaphor as a product and as a process in understanding language and thought Steen (1994) further differentiates system-level metaphors—those embedded in language and thought—from metaphors used in personal language and cognition Shore (1996) introduces metaphorical models as representations of shared cultural perspectives within multicultural communities.
The development of cognitive metaphor theory highlights that many abstract ideas originate through metaphorical insights, as discussed by scholars like (1999), who emphasizes their central role Goatly (2007) explores the connection between conceptual metaphors and human thought processes, revealing how metaphors shape our understanding Kűvecses (2010) offers a comprehensive overview of two decades of advancements in cognitive metaphor research and examines the applicability of this theory across diverse social domains.
In Vietnam, it can be said that this new trend of study was first introduced in
By the early 21st century, increasing research has focused on metaphor from a cognitive perspective, emphasizing its significance in language understanding Ly Toan Thang (2005) discusses cognitive linguistics theory and its application to Vietnamese language practices, highlighting the practical relevance of cognitive metaphor Nguyen Duc Ton (2007) compares pre-cognitive and cognitive metaphors in both global and Vietnamese contexts, providing insights into the nature of metaphor Nguyen Van Hiep (2008) explores how cognitive linguistics influences the interpretation of meaning within syntactic analysis Tran Van Co (2009) reviews global achievements in cognitive metaphor research and outlines tools to understand these metaphors specifically in Vietnamese Additionally, Nguyễn Đức Tồn (2008) investigates cognitive metaphors in Vietnamese idioms, while Nguyễn Lai (2009) examines conceptual metaphors in Vietnamese poetry, illustrating the broad scope of cognitive metaphor applications in language and literary studies.
In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in cognitive approaches to literature, highlighting the significance of metaphor as a key tool for understanding the mind and meaning-making processes George Lakoff and Mark Johnson's seminal work, *Metaphors We Live By* (1980), introduced the concept of conceptual metaphors as a way to comprehend abstract ideas through more concrete experiences Writers frequently use figurative language, including metaphors and irony, as literary devices to effectively communicate complex meanings and deepen reader engagement.
Ester Vidović's 2011 research, "Conceptualization of Time and Space in Fairy Tales Written During the Victorian Period," examines how authors like John Ruskin, George MacDonald, and Oscar Wilde utilize conceptual metaphors to represent time and space Her study highlights that the fairy tale genre presents unique challenges for exploring metaphorical imagery, as it remains underexplored in connecting time, space, and the cultural spirit of the Victorian era.
Jamshidian, S and Motlagh, A A (2020) in their study ―A Cognitive Black
The feminist analysis of Colson Whitehead’s *The Underground Railroad* (2016) and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s *Uncle Tom’s Cabin* highlights how metaphor is employed to address the limitations of language when depicting complex, indescribable phenomena such as slavery, racism, and the double oppression faced by Black women These works use metaphor as a powerful literary device to convey the depth of racial and gender injustices that are difficult to fully articulate, emphasizing their importance within feminist studies Through these texts, literature becomes a means to challenge and expose systemic oppression, reflecting the enduring struggle for racial and gender equality.
Using titles as metaphors for freedom, these authors critique white domination and challenge the oppressed women’s consciousness to envision their true potential Whitehead's work revives the enduring themes of slavery from *Uncle Tom's Cabin*, resonating emotionally with a global audience today, despite the misconception that racial hatred is a thing of the past.
Phí Thị Thu Trang’s 2010 research, “A Study of Water and Fire as Metaphors in American and Vietnamese Short Stories of the 20th Century,” explores how water and fire serve as powerful literary metaphors in both cultures The study highlights that metaphors are not only linguistic devices but also reflect deeply ingrained mental and cultural perceptions, influencing how people understand the natural world and human society Water and fire are frequently used as stylistic figures of speech across the 60 stories analyzed, illustrating their dominance in shaping emotional expression and imagery These metaphors are constructed through specific lexical and grammatical devices to vividly depict intense emotions Furthermore, water and fire carry both positive and negative connotations in American and Vietnamese cultures, depending on cultural attitudes towards their beauty and danger, reinforcing their significance in cultural symbolism and storytelling.
Hoàng Diệu Thu (2012) highlights that the conceptual metaphors of Life and Death are frequently expressed through linguistic imagery in Jack London's short stories The main metaphors for Life include "LIFE IS A JOURNEY," "LIFE IS A BATTLE," and "LIFE IS FIRE/HEAT/WARM," while death is metaphorically described as "DEATH IS THE END OF THE JOURNEY," "DEATH IS COLD," "DEATH IS NIGHT/DARKNESS," and "DEATH IS SLEEP/REST." These metaphors illustrate that Life and Death are complex, encompassing concepts that cannot be fully understood through a single metaphor alone.
Despite extensive research on conceptual metaphors globally and specifically within Vietnamese literature, there is a notable lack of studies focusing on the conceptual metaphors present in Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin." This gap highlights the need for a detailed analysis of the story's metaphorical language to deepen understanding of its themes and messages Exploring the conceptual metaphors in "Uncle Tom's Cabin" can provide valuable insights into the narrative's underlying meanings and cultural significance Addressing this research gap will contribute to literature studies by enriching the analysis of metaphorical frameworks in influential literary works.
Theoretical background
This section offers a comprehensive theoretical background to enhance understanding of cognitive linguistics, emphasizing key concepts such as metaphor and conceptual metaphor It explores the classification and defining features of conceptual metaphors, providing insight into their role in shaping language and thought processes By examining these foundational ideas, the study aims to clarify how metaphors function within cognitive linguistics, highlighting their significance in communication and conceptual understanding.
Cognitive linguistics is a modern approach to language that explores how language interacts with cognition and shapes human thoughts, reflecting changes in collective mindsets over time (Robinson and Ellis, 2008) This school of thought emphasizes that language is rooted in our overall cognitive abilities, making topics like natural language categorization, cognitive models, mental imagery, and metaphor central to its study It also investigates the functional principles of linguistic organization, such as iconicity and naturalness, as well as the conceptual links between syntax and semantics, and the experiential and pragmatic context of language use (Geeraerts and Cuyckens, 2007) Key figures in cognitive linguistics include Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Langacker (1987), Fauconnier (1997), Talmy (2000), Kùvecses (2002), Lý Toàn Thắng (2005), and Evans.
Cognitive linguistics is characterized by two fundamental commitments The first, the Generalization Commitment, emphasizes the need for overarching principles that apply across all aspects of human language, challenging traditional approaches focused solely on semantics, phonology, morphology, and syntax This commitment advocates for the discovery of universal language principles that transcend specific linguistic features The second, the Cognitive Commitment, posits that language reflects general cognitive principles supported by interdisciplinary research into human cognition Therefore, linguistic organization should align with broad cognitive mechanisms rather than isolated cognitive phenomena, highlighting the integration of language and cognition within cognitive linguistics.
Cognitive linguistics is a versatile field with various definitions, depending on the specific aspects of language researchers aim to explore from a cognitive perspective Unlike other linguistic approaches, it hypothesizes that language reflects core principles and design features of the human mind This approach focuses on studying the relationship between human language, the mind, and socio-physical experiences, highlighting how cognitive processes shape linguistic structures.
Cognitive linguistics is divided into two main subfields: cognitive grammar and cognitive semantics, with cognitive grammar focusing on the cognitive principles underlying linguistic organization According to Langacker (1987), these components—grammar, semantics, and the lexicon—operate on a continuum rather than as separate systems Semantics, the study of linguistic meaning, shows that language reflects human cognitive abilities, allowing us to understand the world as we perceive it (Croft and Cruse, 2004) Additionally, conceptual metaphor theory, a key subfield within cognitive grammar and semantics, provides insights into how conceptual systems shape language and relate to brain and mind studies.
A metaphor is defined by Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary as a word or phrase used to describe someone or something else in a way that differs from its normal use, aiming to highlight shared qualities and enhance the description It is primarily understood as a form of meaning transference based on similarities, common features, or qualities between two or more objects, making descriptions more vivid and impactful (Hoàng Tất Trường, 1993).
Metaphor, as defined by Galperin (1981), is a relationship between dictionary meanings and contextual logical interpretations, grounded in the similarity of certain properties between two concepts Lakoff and Johnson (1980), in their influential work "Metaphors We Live By," emphasize that metaphors shape our understanding of the world by linking abstract concepts to more familiar, concrete experiences Recognizing the role of metaphors enhances our comprehension of language and cognition, making them essential for effective communication and SEO-focused content.
Johnson emphasizes that metaphors are crucial in shaping our everyday realities In cognitive linguistics, a metaphor is understood as comprehending one conceptual domain through the lens of another, as explained by Lakoff.
In 1993, it was asserted that metaphor extends beyond language to encompass thought and reasoning, positioning language as secondary The core process is the mental mapping, which allows the transfer of source domain language and inference patterns to understand target domain concepts This emphasis on cognitive mapping highlights how metaphors shape our reasoning processes, making them essential for conceptual understanding.
Metaphor can be understood from both linguistic and cognitive perspectives Traditionally, it is viewed as a figure of speech where an expression represents something beyond its literal meaning, such as "He’s going to ask for her hand," which symbolizes proposing marriage This example illustrates how metaphors convey implied meanings through familiar concepts From a linguistic standpoint, metaphor involves the non-literal use of language, emphasizing word choice over actual thought or action, as explained by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) Incorporating SEO keywords like “metaphor,” “linguistic perspective,” “cognitive perspective,” and “non-literal language,” enhances the content's relevance for search engines.
According to cognitive linguistics, metaphor is understood as "understanding one conceptual domain in terms of another," highlighting its role in shaping our perception and thought processes (Kovecses, 2002) This perspective emphasizes how metaphors connect different conceptual domains to facilitate comprehension and communication Lakoff and Johnson's influential work, *Metaphors We Live By* (1980), further explores how metaphors influence everyday language and cognition, emphasizing their significance in shaping our worldview and understanding abstract concepts Incorporating insights from these foundational theories can enhance content relevance and boost SEO by emphasizing the importance of metaphors in cognitive and linguistic contexts.
Johnson describes metaphor as a "way of conceiving of one thing in terms of another," primarily serving the purpose of understanding This type of metaphor is known as a conceptual metaphor, which shapes our everyday thinking and communication through core concepts For example, in many cultures, people commonly talk about life and love as journeys, a metaphor so ingrained that it often goes unnoticed as a figure of speech In English, expressions related to love and life frequently reflect this metaphorical worldview, illustrating how deeply these concepts are interconnected.
My life is going to an end / He’ll end up in prison
Our relationship is going nowhere / We won’t go far in this marriage
These expressions are derived from how we discuss journeys, even though we don’t explicitly say "My life is a journey." Instead, we express our thoughts about life using travel-related metaphors that reflect our perception of personal growth and experience.
With the development of cognitive linguistics and the publication of Metaphors
The groundbreaking work "We Live By" by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) revolutionized the understanding of metaphor, highlighting its integral role in everyday language Cognitive linguistics adopts a conceptual approach to linguistic analysis, emphasizing that linguistic knowledge encompasses both meaning and form as fundamentally rooted in conceptual structures (Croft and Cruse, 2004) Prior to this influential publication, metaphor was often regarded as a rare or extraordinary linguistic device, rather than a common feature of daily communication.
Metaphor was traditionally regarded as a decorative feature primarily found in poetry and literary works, serving to beautify language However, according to Lakoff and Johnson (1980), metaphor is fundamentally a conceptual process that helps people understand and categorize their experiences It permeates every aspect of daily life, influencing not only language but also thought and action, demonstrating its universal significance in human cognition and communication.
Summary
This chapter reviews previous research on conceptualization, highlighting its global and Vietnamese contexts Despite numerous studies on conceptual metaphors, there has been no focused analysis of metaphors within the short story *Uncle Tom's Cabin* Addressing this gap can help readers, teachers, learners, and translators better understand the story's underlying ideas.
This chapter provides a theoretical foundation for understanding key concepts related to the thesis, primarily focusing on Lakoff and Johnson's (1980) insights into cognitive linguistics, metaphors, and conceptual metaphors Cognitive linguistics is a modern approach that explores how language interacts with cognition, shaping our thoughts and reflecting evolving mindsets over time Central to this is the concept of conceptual metaphor, where one conceptual domain is understood in terms of another, requiring multiple interacting source (specific) and target (abstract) domains via mappings The chapter also discusses various types of conceptual metaphors, including structural, ontological, and orientational metaphors, along with their categorization and elaboration.
METHODOLOGY
Research questions
The following two research questions are formulated to address the objectives of the study:
- What conceptual metaphors are generated in the short story?
- How can we categorize these conceptual metaphors?
To implement the study effectively, the researcher first identifies all conceptual metaphors within the story using linguistic resources By applying their understanding, experience, and interpretive skills, they categorize these metaphors into appropriate types, assuming their prevalence throughout the narrative This approach forms the foundation for addressing the research questions related to conceptual metaphors, enabling a comprehensive analysis of their role and significance within the story.
Research approach: Qualitative
Qualitative research, as defined by Shank (2002), is a systematic and empirical approach to understanding meaning, involving planned, ordered, and publicly conducted inquiry grounded in real-world experiences This method seeks to explore how individuals interpret and make sense of their experiences, emphasizing an interpretive and naturalistic approach Denzin and Lincoln (2000) highlight that qualitative researchers study phenomena in their natural settings to interpret the meanings that people assign to them, providing deep insights into human perspectives and social contexts.
In their groundbreaking book *Metaphors We Live By* (1980), Lakoff and Johnson revealed that metaphors are a essential, structuring mechanism shaping how we perceive and interact with the world They demonstrated that metaphors are a pervasive linguistic phenomenon, so embedded in everyday language that we often overlook their presence Understanding the role of metaphors is crucial for grasping how language influences thought and perception.
This study explores how conceptual metaphors are generated and categorized in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s short story *Uncle Tom’s Cabin* It employs qualitative research methods by collecting and analyzing non-numerical data to gain in-depth insights into themes, opinions, and experiences within the narrative Through interpretative analysis, the research aims to understand the underlying concepts and ideas conveyed through metaphors, providing a comprehensive understanding of the story’s thematic layers This approach allows for the generation of new ideas and a deeper interpretation of the text, emphasizing the qualitative nature of the investigation.
Data collections instruments
The study emphasizes that reading and reviewing documents are the most effective methods for collecting research material Since original editions of the short story "Uncle Tom's Cabin" are difficult to find, the researcher primarily relies on reputable sources such as Harriet Beecher Stowe's official website and other trustworthy online platforms This approach offers the advantages of providing updated, abundant, and authentic information, ensuring the credibility of the research data.
All research materials are quotations from the short story *Uncle Tom's Cabin*, specifically referencing characters' dialogues and expressions encountered throughout the entire narrative, rather than from a single chapter or a specific theme These selected quotations are intentionally chosen because they exemplify conceptual metaphor phenomena, making them valuable for analyzing underlying conceptual frameworks within the story.
Data analyzing method and techniques
This research utilizes documentary analysis and observation as primary methods, focusing on metaphorical expressions as the key units of analysis The collected data is examined through a cognitive approach developed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980), which emphasizes understanding how metaphors shape cognition The data analysis process involves several systematic stages to ensure accurate interpretation and meaningful insights.
The author begins by defining the smallest meaningful units of data relevant to the research focus and questions After data collection, the researcher analyzes the source domain, target domain, and the mappings between them, essential for understanding the conceptual connections This process helps to uncover how data elements relate and transform across different conceptual frameworks, facilitating deeper insights into the research topic.
1 “The child was evidently sincere, and Jane, breaking into a short laugh, said,
“Laws, Missis, there’s heaps of ’em Speculators buys ’em up cheap, when they’s little, and gets ’em raised for market.”
“buys”, cheap”, “market” Source domain: GOOD
2 … actually buying a man up, like a horse, - looking at his teeth, cracking his joints, and trying his paces, and then paying down for him
“buying”, “paying” Source domain: GOOD
“man”, “him” Target domain: MAN
After collecting and categorizing the data, each unit is grouped based on shared characteristics This process involves analyzing the relationship between the source domain and the target domain to establish clear connections Understanding these relationships is crucial for effective data analysis and insightful results Proper categorization and relationship identification enhance the overall accuracy and relevance of the findings.
“buys”, cheap”, “market”, “buying”, “paying” Source domain: GOOD
“child”, “man”, “him” Target domain: MAN
We can see that, ―man" & "good" have same features as they can be paid and bought cheaply on the market Mapping
When analyzing the relationship between the source domain and target domain, it is essential to present the meaning of each data point clearly and directly Interpretation should be conducted while preserving the original language context, such as the historical period when slavery was abolished in the United States during the 19th century Maintaining contextual integrity ensures an accurate understanding of the data's significance within its historical and cultural framework.
Hence, we can have a conceptual metaphor ―MAN IS GOOD‖
Data analytical framework
This framework represents the method and techniques to analyze the data.
Summary
In summary, four main of methodological points have been presented in this chapter They are (i) the research questions, (ii) the Qualitative approach of
This chapter outlines the key components of the research process, including the research itself, the instruments used for data collection, and the methods and techniques employed for data analysis Additionally, it provides a foundational framework that guides the entire study, ensuring a structured and systematic approach to achieving insightful and reliable results.
Identifying target domain “man”, “him” MAN
"man" & "good" have same features: can be paid and bought cheaply on the market
-The categorization of the metaphors
Based on the source domain
LIFE is FIRE MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Based on the target domain
FREEDOM is MONEY FREEDOM is OBJECT
FINDINGS & DISCUSSIONS
FINDINGS
The researcher identified twenty structural and ontological conceptual metaphors after applying the methods and techniques outlined in Chapter III, highlighting the rich use of conceptual metaphors in the story These metaphors can be categorized based on how we conceptualize the source and target domains, revealing the depth and complexity of the narrative’s conceptual framework This analysis demonstrates the importance of understanding metaphorical structures to interpret the story’s underlying meanings and conceptual patterns.
"Freedom is an object," a conceptual metaphor where freedom is understood as an entity or tangible object In *Uncle Tom’s Cabin*, the language used to depict freedom is shaped by action verbs, emphasizing its tangible and attainable nature This metaphor highlights how freedom can be perceived as a concrete object that can be gained, lost, or cherished Incorporating active verbs emphasizes the dynamic relationship individuals have with freedom, making it a central theme in the narrative's portrayal of liberty and human rights.
―take‖ and ―make‖ We can take or carry something from one place to another We can make or create something by combining materials or putting parts together
A "thing" refers to a physical object that we can see and touch, representing tangible entities in our environment We have the freedom to interact with these physical objects through various actions, demonstrating the relationship between objects and our ability to manipulate them Examples from the story illustrate how this conceptual metaphor is expressed through specific lexical items, helping us understand how language maps physical objects to broader ideas Incorporating relevant keywords enhances SEO, making this explanation clear and accessible for readers seeking insights into conceptual metaphors and language.
“O, ye who take freedom from man, with what words shall ye answer it to God?” (Chapter 37, page 263)
In Chapter 28, St Clare announces to Tom, "I'm going to make a free man of you," signaling a significant turning point He advises Tom to prepare for the journey, telling him to pack his trunk and get ready to travel to Kentucky This moment highlights the act of emancipation and the upcoming transition in Tom's life, emphasizing themes of freedom and change.
While in the above examples, we saw FREEDOM is a general object, in this part, we can see FREEDOM is a detailed object through a conceptual metaphor
The foundational idea that "Freedom is Money" highlights how financial independence symbolizes personal liberty In this conceptual metaphor, money serves as the source domain, representing security and control, while freedom is the target domain, embodying autonomy and self-determination Understanding this mapping emphasizes the importance of financial stability in achieving true personal freedom By recognizing the link between financial resources and liberty, individuals can better appreciate how economic empowerment directly contributes to living a more liberated and autonomous life.
Rejoicing in your freedom is a reminder to acknowledge and thank the soul who granted it; showing kindness to his wife and children is a meaningful way to repay his sacrifice.
The metaphorical example involving the words “own” and “pay” highlights common financial concepts “Own” refers to possession or debt, while “pay” signifies settling or fulfilling that obligation When we say “we give somebody money that we owe them,” it emphasizes the process of repaying debts to others Understanding these terms helps clarify essential financial transactions, making them crucial for effective money management and financial literacy.
In Chapter XLIV, George Shelby delivers a powerful speech to his slaves, declaring their freedom He emphasizes that their liberation was initially owed to Uncle Tom, and since Uncle Tom has passed away, their freedom now belongs to his family This poignant message highlights the moral obligation to honor Uncle Tom’s legacy and underscores the spiritual and ethical responsibilities connected to their emancipation.
In *Uncle Tom’s Cabin*, freedom is depicted not just as an abstract concept but as a concrete container, symbolizing boundaries and limitations This conceptual metaphor reveals that freedom (target domain) is understood as a container (source domain), emphasizing its role in holding or restricting individuals’ liberties The metaphor is evident in the way the narrative describes freedom as something that can be relinquished, lost, or contained within certain limits, underscoring the importance of liberation as a boundary-breaking force This imagery highlights the central theme of the novel—freedom as a vital and tangible entity that characters seek to preserve or reclaim.
Remember to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for your freedom, as stated in Chapter 44, page 309: "So, when you rejoice in your freedom, think that you owe it to that good old soul, and pay it back in kindness to his wife and children." Recognizing the importance of gratitude and kindness, this reminder emphasizes the value of expressing appreciation to the families of those who contributed to your liberty Practicing kindness and acknowledging their sacrifices not only enriches your understanding of freedom but also fosters a respectful and compassionate community.
A container is typically associated with boundaries, defining an inside and outside, and emphasizing its ability to hold or contain This concept of containment can be metaphorically applied to personal freedom, where "your freedom" serves as the container that allows you to act, rejoice, and express yourself freely Understanding this relationship highlights how the boundaries of a container shape the potential for personal action and joy.
"Beyond the theme of freedom, Uncle Tom’s Cabin significantly shapes the perception of manhood and slavery, framing the slaver image through a conceptual metaphor where THE MAN/THE SLAVER is GOOD The language used to describe THE SLAVER reinforces this positive association, influencing readers' attitudes toward slavery and moral judgments in the narrative."
MAN/THE SLAVER – the target domain is shaped by imagery of a GOOD – the source domain are nouns like “market”, “old cussed black shell”, “ownership”,
The article explores how language reflects the conceptual metaphor linking children to the "price of their blood," indicating their value and the debts owed by their masters Lexical items such as "cheap," "buy," "pay," "sell," and "own" demonstrate how this metaphor is expressed through everyday words, emphasizing the transactional nature associated with children and property Examples from the story illustrate how these metaphors depict children as commodities, with phrases like "call" and "go to rack" highlighting their commodification and the societal view of their ownership and exchange.
If I must be sold, or all the people on the place, and everything go to rack, why, let me be sold I s'pose I can b'ar it as well as any on 'em." (Chapter 5, page 34) when I have seen such men in actual ownership of helpless children, of young girls and women,- I have been ready to curse my country, to curse the human race!"
In Chapter 10, the trader informs Lucy that her child has been sold, explaining, "Your child's gone; you may as well know it first as last." He justifies his decision by stating he knew Lucy couldn't take the child south and had secured a sale to a reputable family that would raise him better.
DISCUSSION
Analysis of the data from "Uncle Tom's Cabin" reveals that conceptual metaphors are extensively woven throughout the narrative, appearing in every chapter of the story These metaphors play a crucial role in enhancing the thematic depth and emotional impact of the novel Their pervasive presence underscores the importance of metaphorical language in shaping readers' understanding and engagement with the story Recognizing the widespread use of conceptual metaphors in "Uncle Tom's Cabin" highlights their significance in literary analysis and interpretation.
The "HUMAN BODY" and "HUMAN BODY PART" metaphors are central to the story, often conceptualized as containers, with body parts like the heart, eye, and breast representing different types of containers This "CONTAINER" metaphor highlights the human body as a multifunctional and limitless space capable of holding everything from tangible objects to abstract ideas Additionally, concepts related to the human body, such as strength, thought, and language, are often metaphorically understood as liquids, emphasizing fluidity and flow Many other concepts, including time, soul, disease, and fire, are also personified as human entities, further enriching the metaphorical landscape.
The concept of MAN is closely related to the idea of GOOD, serving as a key conceptual metaphor Historically, this metaphor has been illustrated through examples such as the abolition of slavery in 19th-century the US, where the role of a white man, or master, was viewed as a valuable commodity that could be bought, sold, or displayed This usage reflects how the source domain of GOOD is used to shape our understanding of social hierarchies and moral judgments.
The concept of HUMAN is central to the thematic framework of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, as nearly all conceptual metaphors revolve around or relate to this idea This highlights the importance of human beings as the core of the universe, emphasizing that all other entities and creatures exist for and because of humans.
The article explores the powerful conceptual metaphor of FREEDOM, highlighting how it is often portrayed as a tangible object FREEDOM is described as something we can touch, possess, and manipulate, much like money, which we must own and pay for Additionally, FREEDOM is conceptualized as a container that holds happiness, emphasizing its role as a vessel for positive emotions This metaphor underscores how perceptions of freedom are intertwined with materiality, ownership, and emotional fulfillment.
The concept of LIFE is central to this story, portrayed through the metaphors of FOOD and FIRE FIRE serves as the source domain for numerous other concepts such as LOVE, THIRST, and ANGER, illustrating how one foundational idea can be understood and categorized in various ways This aligns with Lakoff and Johnson's (1980) theory on the categorization of conceptual metaphors, highlighting how metaphoric understanding shapes our perception of abstract concepts.
CONCLUSION
Summary of major findings
Metaphor, known for its novelty and variety, is a complex figure of speech that plays a vital role in literature, where it effectively transports messages and evokes interpretation As a key stylistic device, metaphors are present in everyday language, scientific writings, media, and reports, but their most significant impact is seen in literature, where they deepen meaning and provoke interpretative debates At the core of metaphorical expression is the identification of one concept (target domain) through another (source domain), but this connection can be constructed in various ways, contributing to the richness and complexity of metaphorical understanding.
The study of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" confirms that conceptual metaphors are prevalent throughout the story, with diverse applications across all chapters These metaphors shape how human nature, the environment, and society are understood by conceptualizing them into various entities and objects While many conventional metaphors are present, Harriet Beecher Stowe also demonstrates remarkable creativity by extending and elaborating everyday metaphors in innovative ways This rich use of conceptual metaphors enhances the depth and meaning of the narrative, showcasing the author's skillful integration of familiar and novel metaphorical expressions.
This article explores major types of conceptual metaphors, highlighting how abstract ideas are understood through concrete images The first key metaphor involves the HUMAN concept, where the HUMAN BODY functions as a CONTAINER, and attributes like MAN are seen as GOOD, while FIRE and TIME are conceptualized as HUMAN Additionally, various HUMAN-related concepts are metaphorically represented as LIQUIDs The second major metaphor revolves around FREEDOM, depicted either as a tangible OBJECT, such as MONEY, or as a spacious CONTAINER The concept of LIFE is associated with FOOD and FIRE, emphasizing vitality and energy Furthermore, FIRE serves as a source domain for understanding emotions like LOVE, THIRST, and ANGER These diverse conceptual metaphors are illustrated comprehensively in an accompanying table.
Object Freedom FREEDOM is an OBJECT Container Freedom FREEDOM is CONTAINER
Money Freedom FREEDOM is MONEY
Container Human body HUMAN BODY is CONTAINER Container Heart HUMAN HEART is CONTAINER Container Bosom HUMAN BOSOM is CONTAINER Container Breast HUMAN BREAST is CONTAINER
Container Eye HUMAN EYE is CONTAINER
Human Sleep SLEEP is HUMAN
Human Time TIME IS AN HUMAN
Human Soul SOUL IS AN HUMAN
Human Disease DISEASE is an HUMAN
Human Fire FIRE is HUMAN
Good Human MAN is a GOOD
Liquid Strength STRENGTH is LIQUID Liquid Thought THOUGHT is LIQUID Liquid Language LANGUAGE is LIQUID
Liquid Love LOVE is LIQUID
Maternal Love MATERNAL LOVE is WROUGHT IRON
Love MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Liquid Love LOVE is LIQUID
Food Life LIFE is FOOD
Fire Life LIFE is FIRE
Fire Thirst THIRST is FIRE
Fire Anger HUMAN FEELING/ANGER is FIRE
Love MATERNAL LOVE is FIRE
Fire Life LIFE is FIRE
Human Fire FIRE is HUMAN
Implications for studying, teaching and researching
Studying literature enhances our understanding of diverse cultures and human emotions while mastering language skills Literature reflects people's actions, feelings, and core values, showcasing creativity through the use of poetic and figurative devices It employs various linguistic techniques to create vivid imagery, communicate messages effectively, and foster connections between writers, characters, and readers The more we read, the more proficient we become in language use, making the content and artistry of literary works essential components of intensive language training.
Teaching literary texts, including short stories, involves analyzing figurative language such as metaphors, which are essential for creating analogies, making connections, and clarifying abstract ideas Without metaphors and other figures of speech, literature can become soulless and lose its aesthetic appeal Engaging readers with deliberate exposure to ideas and messages encourages reflection, association, and deeper understanding, making the reading experience more enjoyable and meaningful.
To enhance language competence through literary texts, teachers should select appropriate short stories that are approximately 5,000 to 7,000 words in length, featuring diverse literary devices and relatable themes Analyzing literary tropes, especially metaphors, should be central to the lesson, helping learners understand their power and purpose Teachers need to guide students in exploring conceptual metaphors, how they are created, and their symbolic meanings, often based on common images like human figures, fire, life, and death Encouraging students to recognize these symbols and their integration into metaphors enhances their understanding of figurative language, making literary analysis both effective and engaging.
Teachers should understand the importance and effective techniques of teaching literary texts to students Literature education aims not only to impart literary knowledge but also to help learners practice the language correctly and authentically Emphasizing the study of figurative language is crucial for raising students' awareness of its expressive potential and appreciating the beauty of literary works.
Limitations of and Suggestions for further research
This study investigates the conceptual metaphors present in the short story "Uncle Tom’s Cabin," highlighting its contribution to understanding metaphorical language However, it represents only a small part of broader research on conceptual metaphors Despite exploring various phenomena, the study does not delve deeply into their core meanings, indicating a key limitation.
Therefore, I hope my research can lay a background for the future researches related to conceptual metaphor in Uncle Tom‘s Cabin and other literature works
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APPENDIX 5: LIFE METAPHORS APPENDIX 6: FIRE METAPHORS
―O, ye who take freedom from man, with what words shall ye answer it to God?‖
St Clare announced to Tom that he was going to make him a free man, instructing him to pack his trunk and prepare for a journey to Kentucky This moment marked Tom's path towards freedom, emphasizing the importance of this life-changing decision.
2 Container Freedom FREEDOM is CONTAINER
So, when you rejoice in your freedom
3 Money Freedom FREEDOM is MONEY
So, when you rejoice in your freedom, think that you owe it to that good old soul, and pay it back in kindness to his wife and children
"You're afraid of me, Simon, and you've reason to be But be careful, for I've got the devil in me!"
It seemed to her as if strength poured into her in electric streams, from every gentle touch and movement of the sleeping, confiding child
Those words fell on his heart like clods upon a coffin
She seemed to sink, at once, into the bosom of the family, and take the little ones into her heart, as something for which it long had waited
Tom‘s heart was full; he poured it out in prayer, like waters that have been long suppressed
I ought to know such things, I ought to feel about them! Such things always sunk into my heart; they went down deep; I've thought and thought about them
Is it truly possible? It is astonishing to see such compassion within a family However, in our country, even kind families can fall into debt, and the law permits them to sell their children to settle their debts.
She seemed to sink, at once, into the bosom of the family, and take the little ones into her heart, as something for which it long had waited
All these thoughts were rolling and seething in George’s breast
When he hurriedly announced the tidings among his hands, there was a sudden light in Tom’s eye, a sudden upraising of his hands, that did not escape him
6 Good Man MAN is a GOOD
The creature insisted that it "never was born," having no father, mother, or origin, and was raised by a speculator alongside many others Old Aunt Sue was responsible for caring for them during this time Jane, amused by the child's sincerity, remarked that there are many such cases where speculators buy children cheaply when they're young and raise them for market purposes.
… actually buying a man up, like a horse,— looking at his teeth, cracking his joints, and trying his paces, and then paying down for him
Certainly! Here's a rewritten paragraph incorporating key sentences with SEO considerations:In this passage, the speaker asserts authority over the servant, challenging their facade ofpiety: "Didn’t you never hear out of your Bible, 'Servants, obey your masters'?" emphasizing the biblical basis for obedience The speaker reminds the servant of their ownership, stating, "I paid twelve hundred dollars, cash, for all there is inside your old cussed black shell," highlighting the power dynamics of ownership Ultimately, the speaker declares, "You’re mine, now, body and soul," reinforcing the control and dominance over the servant's entire being.
If I must be sold, or all the people on the place, and everything go to rack, why, let me be sold I s'pose I can b'ar it as well as any on 'em."
Standing at his grave, I made a solemn vow before God never to own another slave Witnessing men in possession of defenseless children, young girls, and women has profoundly shocked me, leading me to curse my country and the entire human race for such injustices.
Trader informs Lucy that her child has been taken, explaining he anticipated her inability to care for him south and arranged for a reputable family to raise the child better.
In this heartfelt conversation, the speaker announces their plan to earn four dollars a week with the hope of saving money to buy back their husband George responds with surprise, acknowledging the significance of this determined effort, highlighting themes of perseverance and the pursuit of family reunification This story illustrates the importance of resilience and hope in overcoming hardships, emphasizing the value of financial independence in achieving personal and familial goals.
He sold both those children He took me to ride, one day, and when I came home, they were nowhere to be found! He told me he had sold them; he showed me the money, the price of their blood
―I‘ve had a sister sold in that New Orleans market
I am aware of the value of what is being sold, but I refuse to stand by and let my wife be taken and sold God has blessed me with strong arms to protect her, and I am determined to defend her from harm.
Is it truly possible for such a kind family to face such hardship? In fact, kind-hearted families often fall into debt, and under our country's laws, they are sometimes forced to sell their children to settle these debts, even if it means parting from their own children.
He suddenly stretched himself up, and, looking earnestly to heaven, while the tears and blood that flowed down his face mingled, he exclaimed, ―No! no! no! my soul an’t yours, Mas‘r! You haven’t bought it,—ye can’t buy it! It’s been bought and paid for, by one that is able to keep it;—no matter, no matter, you can‘t harm me!‖
George Harris proclaims his freedom from slavery, stating, "I am a free man, standing on God's free soil," after being previously claimed as property by Mr Harris of Kentucky He emphasizes his familial bonds, affirming, "my wife and my child I claim as mine," asserting his rights and independence.
7 Human Sleep SLEEP is HUMAN
It seemed to her as if strength poured into her in electric streams, from every gentle touch and movement of the sleeping, confiding child
8 Human Time TIME IS AN HUMAN
In that dizzy moment her feet to her scarce seemed to touch the ground, and a moment brought her to the water‘s edge
9 Human Soul SOUL IS AN HUMAN
Tom fervently prayed with all his heart and strength for the passing soul, which seemed to gaze with steady, mournful blue eyes.