The French théorie de l'énonciation and the study of speech and thought presentation

Abstract

This article considers the implications of the French enunciation theory for the study of speech and thought presentation (S&TP) in literature and endeavours to demonstrate its usefulness and relevance over and above the French context to which it has hitherto been applied. More precisely, it attempts to combine and unify that specific framework with the type of analysis developed by Leech and Short (1981) for English literature. It first offers a brief introduction to enunciation theory, its origins, tenets and main concepts, before presenting the theory of 'split subject' developed by Ducrot, with particular reference to the study of reported discourse. It then describes Maingueneau's application of Ducrot's concepts to the context of literary communication. Finally, it highlights the possible links that exist between the approach of Ducrot and Maingueneau and that of Leech and Short, while also suggesting some personal and original views as to how both approaches could be combined into a harmonious framework.