Thornborrow Edwards Weber And Horner

Thornborrow, Edwards, Weber and Horner all have their own perspectives on language and identity. By means of a literature review essay I will examine and contrast between arguments that are put forth, indicate towards any similarities and/or differences, as well as compare the various theories and any alternative suggestions of language and identity that they have discussed in their respective chapters. A literature review essay can be defined as being a “critical review of published sources, or literature,” on a specific subject ("QUT cite|write - Writing a literature review", 2017). And included in this literature review essay will be my opinion on whether or not I agree and/or disagree on their perspectives in regards to language and identity.

Thornborrow’s introduction to language and identity states that through the use of our language, we shape the view that people have of us while simultaneously establishing our identity (1999, p.152). And because language is such a valued element in the construction of not only individual identities, but social identities too. It becomes a “powerful means of exercising social control”, as said by Thornborrow (1999, p. 152). In this reading, Thornborrow draws attention as to how our names, the names we give ourselves, the places we reside in and the people we meet shapes our language and identities slightly. Firstly Thornborrow discussed the importance of names and naming practices of various cultures. Also how these naming practices “vary from culture to culture” (1999, p. 161). Thornborrow showed an interest in the Hindu naming practices and rituals, even though these practices had died out at least thirty years ago. “The attribution of names is only part of the story, however. Once you have your name, how people use it becomes very important” (1999, p. 161), I think that this is a critical aspect of names especially when one considers their individual identity in a social group. The choice of

Each of the authors’ text flows, and along with their language use it leaves nothing to be misunderstood. Each of them presents a convincing argument too. Thornborrow’s argument centred on the names we have in different contexts and the identities we transform into. She also pointed out how one’s accent, use of grammar and language style would change in these contexts. Although this has not happened to me personally, I do agree with Thornborrow’s view on language and identity. Even though Thornborrow was set on categories only pertaining to certain particulars, she said that in some instances the boundaries of these categories would overlap. And I think that is why I agree with her argument. Edwards made use of many sources for this reading in order to get his point across. I both agree and disagree with Edwards’ perspective. Yes, I agree that to a certain point the way in which we speak and address our friends do differ as to when we speak to our family