Abstract: Conflict talk is a universal language phenomenon in everyday communication, such as quarreling, arguing, cursing etc, which is always associated with impoliteness and has a negative effect on interpersonal relationships. According to Culpeper(1996), impoliteness is a communication strategy which is face-threatening in nature and may result in conflicts. Due to much conflicts and contradictions between the participants in the courtroom, this paper will put emphasis on the study of impoliteness in courtroom discourse from the pragmatic perspective. This paper will take Culpeper’s impoliteness theory as a frame work to study impoliteness in courtroom discourse from four aspects. They are bold on record impoliteness strategy, positive impoliteness strategy, negative impoliteness strategy, and sarcasm or mock politeness strategy. In addition, pragmatic functions will also be used in this paper from three perspectives – expressive function, directive function and evocative function. This study aims to not only promote the understanding between both parties in courtroom, but help to build a harmonious family and society.

Key words: conflict talk, courtroom discourse, impoliteness strategies，pragmatic functions

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

2.Literature Review1

2.1Studies on Impoliteness

2.1.1 Impoliteness Studies Abroad

2.1.2 Impoliteness Studies at Home

2.2Features of Courtroom Discourse

3.A Case Study of Monkey Trial.4

3.1Brief Introduction to Monkey Trial

3.2Analysis of the Impoliteness Strategies in Monkey Trial

3.2.1Bold on Record Impoliteness Strategy

3.2.2Positive Impoliteness Strategy

3.2.3Negative Impoliteness Strategy

3.2.4Sarcasm or mock politeness Strategy

3.3 Analysis of Pragmatic Functions of Impoliteness

  3.3.1 Expressive Function

  3.3.2 Directive Function

  3.3.3 Evocative Function

4.Conclusion10

Bibliography.11

Acknowledgements..12