Linguocultural Dimension in Literary Text Interpretation

Abstract

A journey through meaning the world of literature is a rich tapestry woven with threads of language and culture. Every literary work, from ancient epics to modern novels, carries within it the echoes of the society and time that birthed it. To truly grasp the essence of a text, to unlock its hidden depths of meaning, we must embark on a journey through the linguistic and cultural landscapes that shaped it. "The meaning of a text is not a fixed entity but a dynamic process of negotiation between the text itself and the reader’s cultural and linguistic background." This quote by Umberto Eco aptly captures the essence of this article: exploring how understanding the cultural context of a literary work is crucial for unlocking its full meaning. The term "linguocultural" highlights the inseparable nature of language and culture. Every language carries within it the cultural baggage of its speakers, reflecting their values, beliefs, and ways of perceiving the world. Literary texts, as products of their time and place, are imbued with these linguocultural nuances, making them intricate tapestries woven with linguistic threads and cultural patterns.