25 Feb 2025
13:00  - 14:00

Englisches Seminar, room 11

Colloquium

Love and Hate in a Second Language: Unveiling Emotions through Metaphors

PD Dr Julia Landmann (Universität Basel)

This study delves into the colorful expressions of 'love' and 'hate' by non-native English speakers, with a spotlight on German learners of English. Conducted through interviews in 2024 with 96 bachelor’s students, this research uncovers the unique linguistic features and conceptualizations of these powerful emotions. By tapping into Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT), the study dissects the metaphorical language that springs from the participants’ narratives. Addressing common critiques of CMT, such as its reliance on linguistic intuition, this research leans on authentic language data to reveal the socio-cultural and emotional influences at play. The findings illuminate the intricate dance between language and emotion, shedding light on how diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds shape the way we articulate our deepest feelings.


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