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Language Variety in Literature

  • In: Encyclopedia of Identity
  • Edited by: Ronald L. Jackson II & Michael A. Hogg
  • Subject:Self & Identity, Identity, Self & Identity

Language variety is characterized by speech patterns (comprising grammar, pronunciation, phonology, spelling, etc.) that divert from Standard English. In literature, language variety is used to establish cultural and social identities of a character through vernacular. It also speaks to one's view of the world and one's limitations. This technique is not new to literature, nor is it limited to a specific genre. Language variety is a centuries-old tradition that dates back to the works of Chaucer and ...

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