Mental spaces I 3301-JF2644
The course is meant as an introduction to two semantic theoretical frameworks formulated within the paradigm of cognitive linguistics: the theory of mental spaces and the theory of conceptual blending. The topics to be discussed during the course will include the following:
- mental spaces are theoretical tools used to characterize the human ability to conceptualize phenomena from multiple perspectives
- the basic notions of the mental space theory: mental spaces, space builders, counterpart relations; Access Principle
- meaning in discourse as dynamic '"on-line" construction of mental space configurations
- grammatical resources as hints in constructing mental space configurations
- transfer of knowledge structures across mental spaces
- a characterization of the process of conceptual blending
- kinds of blends
- an account of semantic integration in terms of conceptual blending
- blending in human action
- blending as a tool of conceptual manipulation (in advertising, in political discourse, etc.).
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Knowledge: the graduate will be able to
K_W02 discuss key terminology, well established methods and theories of linguistics in the area of semantics and pragmatics within English studies, with special focus on the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending
K_W03 describe methodology and recent developments in English linguistics, with special focus on the assumptions of the theoretical framework of cognitive linguistics, and in partii ular the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending developed within this framework
K_W05 list and discuss the characteristics of English grammar, semantics, and pragmatics on an advanced level, in particular with reference to phenomena which are of interest to the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending
K_W07 explain principles of designing linguistic studies, with special focus on selecting appropriate methods and tools in formulating research questions and testing research hypotheses with respect to phenomena which are of interest to the theory of mental spaces and the theory of conceptual blending
Abilities: the graduate is able to
K_U01 employ the terminology and methodological tools from linguistics, with particular emphasis on semantics and pragmatics, including the terminology and theoretical apparatus put forward by the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending
K_U02 employ the methodology of linguistics within English studies, with particular emphasis on the methodology in semantic and pragmatic studies developed by the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending, respecting the ethical norms and copyright law
K_U04 implement knowledge, in particular the knowledge of the theoretical tools developed by the theories of mental spaces and conceptual blending, to describe a problem and identify means to solve it, thereby completing a project in linguistics, with special focus on semantic and pragmatic problems
K_U11 design one’s own development
Social competences: the graduate is ready to
K_K02 undertake life-long learning and personal development, applying skills and competences to select subjects and projects optimally suiting one’s personal interests
K_K03 value responsibility for one’s own work and respect the work of others, adhering to the professional and ethical norms in various projects and other activities undertaken at work, voluntary services, etc.
English language practice on B2+ level
Assessment criteria
The course takes the form of a discussion and practical exercises.
The basis for the final grade is the result of the written final test (70%).
The second component for the final grade is the grade for an analysis of an example of conceptual blending selected by the student.
Attendance is obligatory. 3 absences are allowed.
Bibliography
Evans, Vyvyan and Melanie Green. 2006. Cognitive linguistics. An introduction. Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press.
Fauconnier, Gilles. 1994. Mental spaces: aspects of meaning construction in natural language (2nd edn.). Cambridge and New York: Cambridge University Press.
Fauconnier, Gilles. 1997. Mappings in thought and language. Cambridge and New York: Cambridge University Press.
Fauconnier, Gilles and Mark Turner. 1998. "Conceptual integration networks". Cognitive science 22-1. 133-187.
Fauconnier, Gilles and Mark Turner. 2000. "Compression and global insight". Cognitive linguistics 11-3/4. 283-304.
Fauconnier, Gilles and Mark Turner. 2002. The way we think. Conceptual blending and the mind's hidden complexities. New York: Basic Books.
Lee, David. 2001. Cognitive Linguistics. An introduction. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Sweetser, Eve E. 1999. "Compositionality and blending". In Janssen, Theo and Gisela Redeker (eds.). Cognitive linguistics: foundations, scope, and methodology. 129-162.
Sweetser, Eve E. 2000. "Blending and performativity". Cognitive linguistics 11-3/4. 305-333.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: