Introduction to re(Making) Language
In this writing, Graves uses Mary Shelley’s classic Gothic novel Frankenstein to show the effect that language can have on our knowledge and thoughts. Frankenstein’s monster overhears one man talking about the gruesome history of the human species, causing him to reflect upon this new knowledge and turning his wonder into disgust. Language also led to the monster considering his place in the world, realizing his desires to have someone to talk to. Through the exploration of language and knowledge, we open up to emotion and are able to understand ourselves and others.
Language, Discourse, and Literacy
Language is essentially an exchange of symbols that varies depending on the specific community using it. These groups that share a common language are called “discourse communities” and can be anything from professions to social groups. As people engage in discourse, language evolves, changing based on the way it gets used. Literacy, which was traditionally regarded as the ability to read and write in a given language, can be defined as a person’s understanding of a discourse. Literacy is affected by the social environment we’re in, as people use language differently in different social groups. Literacy practices can even shape ideology and be used to exert control, as shown by the Jim Crow laws after the American Civil War.
Response
My biggest takeaway from these readings is the importance of language in shaping our thoughts and knowledge. By using language in various discourse communities, the very way we think of the world and of ourselves changes. We are able to use language differently in each group, as well as understand the language that the rest of the group uses.