THE PRAGMATICS OF NOSTALGIA IN JULIAN BARNES' ARTHUR & GEORGE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.n1.4278Keywords:
Nostalgia, Pragmatics, Julian Barnes, Arthur & George, Memory, IdentityAbstract
This study investigates the role of nostalgia in Julian Barnes' Arthur & George, examining its impact on character development and narrative structure. The novel intertwines the lives of Arthur Conan Doyle and George Edalji, using nostalgia to explore themes of identity, memory, and societal context. By analyzing key passages, this research reveals how nostalgia shapes the characters' motivations and perceptions, particularly in their pursuits of justice and belonging. Arthur's idealized recollections of the past inspire him to support George, whose experiences highlight the complexities of racial and social identity in early 20th-century England. This dynamic between personal and collective memory emphasizes nostalgia's broader historical implications, illustrating its influence on individual experiences and societal narratives. Additionally, the paper discusses how readers engage with nostalgia, showcasing Barnes' ability to prompt reflections on their own memories and identities. Ultimately, this analysis highlights nostalgia as a significant pragmatic force within the novel, providing insights into the intricacies of human emotion and the construction of historical consciousness. By exploring these themes, the study enhances the understanding of the thematic depth in Barnes' work and the wider implications of nostalgia in literature. Through its exploration of these elements, the research contributes to a richer comprehension of how nostalgia shapes narrative and character in Arthur & George.
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