The figure of the devil used to evaluate the actions of man in phrasematics Cover Image

Figura diabła wykorzystywana do wartościowania działań człowieka we frazematyce
The figure of the devil used to evaluate the actions of man in phrasematics

Author(s): Renata Dźwigoł
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Komisji Edukacji Narodowej w Krakowie
Keywords: actions performed by man; devil; phrasematics

Summary/Abstract: The paper presents phrasemes from the lexical-semantic field DIABEŁ (DEVIL) in an anthropocentric perspective. The purpose is to describe these units that show what features and aspects of man’s activity – manifested in undertaking and carrying out different actions – have made these actions acquire a devilish character in phrasematics, and consequently – negative evaluation. A significant majority of phrasemes name behaviours, which – taking into account the way in which the actions are performed, as well as their intensity – are distinguished by lack of moderation and exceeding the conventionally accepted norm. As extremes located on the right side of the axis (slowly – fast, little – much, quietly – loudly), according to a popular belief (colloquial, sensible rationality – common-sense knowledge) are treated as unnatural and do not gain acceptance.

  • Issue Year: 2024
  • Issue No: 19
  • Page Range: 19-34
  • Page Count: 16
  • Language: Polish
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