Binary Opposition “Man-Machinery” in R. Bradbury Science Fiction Works: A Cognitive Linguistic Approach

Abstract

This paper focuses on cognitive-linguistic features of the binary opposition “man-machinery” in the science fiction works by R. Bradbury. The article aims to determine the means of the verbal representation of “man-machinery” and build frame models of its components in Bradbury’s science fiction writings. The study contributes to the stylistic and linguo-poetic analysis of binary oppositions in fiction texts, idiostylistics and genre theory. The study relies upon linguistic, stylistic, and discursive analyses as well as cognitive linguistic analysis to ensure the reliability and validity of the obtained results. Furthermore, four-stage algorithm methodology used in this research allowed the author to define a general literary context of the analyzed works, select the research material, analyze the identified means of binary opposition “man-machinery,” and model frames of its components. The obtained results reveal that the linguistic embodiment of the components of the binary opposition “man-machinery” is based on the use of the lexical – direct and figurative, stylistic, and discursive means of nomination. The study reconstructs the concepts – the constituents of the megaconcepts man and machinery and on the basis of anthropocentric perception compares their conceptual domains, namely as physical, psychological, mental, and social phenomena. The research reveals conceptual binary opposition man-machinery as a tool for constructing a science fiction model of the world in Bradbury’s texts within three parameters: space-time coordinates, cause and effect relationships, and valorative indicators. The introduced methodology of binary opposition analysis is perspective within the scope of science fiction, fiction texts and films.

“life/death” binary opposition in folk prose narratives

“…The research is also supported by linguistic, stylistic and discourse analysis. A group of Ukrainian researchers emphasise the importance of such an analysis in their article (Podsievak et al, 2020). A structural method was used to discover the "life/death" binary opposition in the structure of folk prose narratives.…”