Regional identities in English language based on the film
«This is England»
CONTENT
INTRODUCTION
3
CHAPTER 1. THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL IDENTITIES IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
5
1.1 Introduction to english dialects
5
1.2 Historical context of english dialects
8
1.3 Regional variations in english dialects
12
1.4 Theoretical framework: characterization and language
16
CHAPTER 2. PRACTICAL ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL IDENTITIES IN THE FILM «THIS IS ENGLAND»
19
CONCLUSION
28
REFERENCES
30
APPENDICES
33
INTRODUCTION
Relevance of the topic. The study of regional identities within the English language is a crucial aspect of understanding the sociocultural context in which the language functions. The film «This is England» highlights various social and cultural aspects of British society in the 1980s, which directly influence the linguistic characteristics of its characters. Analyzing regional dialects in this film provides insights into how language reflects regional affiliation, class identity, and the impact of social processes on linguistic practices.
Furthermore, in an era of globalization and intensified international communication, interest in the study of English language variations continues to grow. Research into regional dialects enhances our understanding of the internal structure of English, its variability, and its connection to speakers' identities. This is relevant not only for linguistics but also for sociology, cultural studies, and translation studies.
The aim of this work is to investigate regional identities in the English language based on the analysis of dialects presented in the film «This is England».
Based on this aim, the following objectives are set:
To explore the theoretical aspects of regional identities in the English language.
To analyze the historical development of English dialects and their regional variability.
To examine the use of regional dialects in the film «This is England».
To identify the role of regional identities in shaping social relationships and character development in the film.
The object of the study is regional dialects of the English language.
The subject of the study is the use of regional dialects in the film «This is England».
Research methods: historical method – to study the development of English dialects in a historical context; contextual analysis – to examine the use of regional dialects in the film; comparative method – to identify differences between regional dialects featured in the film.
Practical significance. The findings of this study can be applied in teaching English as a foreign language, especially in familiarizing students with its regional varieties. Additionally, the conclusions drawn can facilitate a better understanding of the sociocultural aspects of British society and their linguistic representation.
Scientific novelty. The novelty of this work lies in the detailed analysis of regional English dialects using contemporary cinematographic material. For the first time, the focus is placed on the connection between the regional identities of the film's characters and their linguistic behavior.
Structure of the work. The coursework consists of an introduction, two chapters with subsections, general conclusions, a list of references comprising 30 sources, and appendices spanning 4 pages.
CHAPTER 1. THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL IDENTITIES IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
1.1 Introduction to english dialects
English, as a global language, is celebrated for its vast array of dialects, each revealing a tapestry of history, geography, and cultural identity. A dialect, in the linguistic sense, encompasses variations in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary that distinguish it from other forms of the same language [6, p. 18]. These variations often stem from centuries of evolution influenced by migration, social changes, and regional isolation. Dialects not only serve as tools of communication but also act as markers of identity, connecting individuals to their geographical roots and social backgrounds [15, p. 112].
The distinction between dialects and accents forms the foundation of this discussion. While accents refer strictly to phonological differences, dialects involve broader linguistic elements, including syntax and lexicon. For example, the Yorkshire dialect is characterized by distinctive vowel sounds as well as unique grammatical features such as the omission of definite articles, e.g., «I'm going to shop» instead of «I'm going to the shop» [3, p. 23]. This demonstrates how dialects offer a richer linguistic variety compared to accents alone [9, p. 76].
The Old English dialects were regionally diverse, with notable varieties including Northumbrian, Mercian, West Saxon, and Kentish [14, p. 67]. Each dialect reflected the cultural and geographical divisions of Anglo-Saxon England. For example, Northumbrian, spoken in the north, had linguistic features distinct from West Saxon, the dialect of the south.
The Norman Conquest in 1066 brought profound changes to the linguistic landscape. French became the language of the elite, while English remained the vernacular of the common people. This social dichotomy led to the emergence of Middle English (1150–1500 AD), during which regional dialects began to take shape in ways that are recognizable today [19, p. 44]. For instance, Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales reflects the dialectal diversity of 14th-century England, with characters speaking in regional accents and dialects.
By the Early Modern English period (1500–1700), the printing press and the rise of London as a cultural and economic hub began to standardize English. However, regional dialects persisted, particularly in rural areas, where linguistic isolation allowed unique speech patterns to develop and thrive [11, p. 95].
England’s regional dialects are traditionally divided into three broad categories: Northern, Midlands, and Southern. Each region exhibits distinct linguistic features that set it apart from the others [29, p. 47].
Northern English dialects are known for their use of short vowels in words like bath and grass, pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/ instead of /ɑː/ as in Southern English. Lexical differences also abound; for example, the word bairn (child) is commonly used in Northern dialects but is rare elsewhere [30, p. 142]. Additionally, the Northern dialects retain certain archaic features of Old English, such as the second-person singular pronoun thou in some rural areas [3, p. 23].
The Midlands, a linguistic transition zone between the North and South, boasts a rich variety of dialects. For example, the Black Country dialect, spoken in the West Midlands, is characterized by its unique intonation patterns and the use of non-standard grammatical constructions such as double negatives, e.g., «I ain't done nothing» [9, p. 76]. East Midlands English, historically influential due to its association with early forms of standardized English, also retains distinctive regional features.
Southern English dialects are marked by the broad use of the long vowel /ɑː/ in words like bath and glass. Within this region, the Cockney dialect of London is particularly famous for its phonetic innovations, including glottal stops (e.g., butter pronounced as /ˈbʌʔə/) and rhyming slang (e.g., apples and pears for stairs) [6, p. 18]. Further south, the West Country dialects feature non-standard past-tense forms, such as I be instead of I am, reflecting linguistic continuity with Old English [15, p. 112].
Dialects are more than linguistic constructs; they carry deep social and cultural significance. A person’s dialect often signals their geographical origin, social class, and even educational background. In Britain, where class distinctions have historically been prominent, dialects have played a central role in shaping perceptions of identity and social mobility [14, p. 67]. For instance, Received Pronunciation (RP), often referred to as «BBC English,» has traditionally been associated with the upper class and formal education. In contrast, regional dialects like Cockney or Scouse (spoken in Liverpool) have been stereotyped as working-class speech. These perceptions can lead to linguistic prejudice, where speakers of non-standard dialects are judged unfairly based on their manner of speaking [19, p. 44].
However, in recent decades, there has been a growing appreciation for linguistic diversity. Regional dialects are increasingly celebrated as expressions of cultural heritage, and many speakers take pride in their linguistic identity [11, p. 95]. For example, in popular culture, television shows and films often use regional accents and dialects to add authenticity and depth to characters [30, p. 142].
Globalization and mass media have had a significant impact on the use of regional dialects. The spread of standardized English through education and media has led to a decline in traditional dialect usage, particularly among younger generations [9, p. 76]. Urbanization has also contributed to the blending of dialects, as people from diverse linguistic backgrounds interact in metropolitan areas.
Despite these challenges, dialects continue to evolve. New urban dialects, such as Multicultural London English (MLE), have emerged in response to the changing demographics of cities. MLE incorporates elements from a variety of languages and dialects, reflecting the multicultural nature of modern urban life.
1.2 Historical context of english dialects
The historical development of English dialects is a fascinating journey that spans over a millennium, shaped by significant social, political, and cultural events. Understanding this evolution allows us to grasp the complex nature of regional language variation in English. Over time, English dialects have evolved, influenced by invasions, migrations, social shifts, and the standardization of language.
The history of English dialects begins with the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in Britain in the 5th century AD. Old English, the earliest form of the English language, was brought to the British Isles by the Anglo-Saxon settlers, who spoke a variety of Germanic dialects. The primary groups of Anglo-Saxon settlers—the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes—came from different regions of what is now Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, and brought with them distinct dialects of Old English [6, p. 18].
The dialects of Old English were primarily divided into four major categories: Northumbrian, Mercian, West Saxon, and Kentish. These dialects were geographically distributed across England, with West Saxon being the dominant form in the south and East Anglia, and Northumbrian dominating the north [19, p. 44]. The language spoken in each region reflected the political and cultural influences of that area. For instance, West Saxon became the prestige dialect and was used in many written texts, including the famous epic Beowulf, while Northumbrian was associated with the kingdom of Northumbria and was the dialect of the church in the north [11, p. 95].
During the Old English period, there were no standardized spellings, and each dialect was used in its own specific geographical region. As a result, the language differed greatly from one area to another in terms of vocabulary, pronunciation, and even grammatical structures. For example, in the North, the Old English word hūs (house) was pronounced with a long «u» sound, while in the South it was pronounced with a short «u» sound [6, p. 18].
The next major shift in the history of English dialects occurred in 1066 with the Norman Conquest of England. The Normans, originally from Scandinavia but culturally and linguistically influenced by French, brought with them the Old French language, which became the language of the ruling class, the church, and the legal system. For several centuries, French was used in formal settings, while the common people continued to speak Old English [15, p. 112].
The impact of Norman French on English was profound, particularly in terms of vocabulary. The French influence resulted in the incorporation of thousands of French words into the English lexicon, particularly in the areas of law, government, religion, and culture. However, the most significant effect of the Norman Conquest on English dialects was the split between the languages of the upper and lower classes. The elite spoke French, while the working classes continued to use Old English. Over time, English began to incorporate more French elements, and the language underwent significant changes that marked the transition from Old English to Middle English (1150–1500) [9, p. 76].
During the Middle English period, regional dialects began to emerge more clearly. This period was marked by increased contact between different regions, and as a result, dialectal variation became more pronounced. The rise of the feudal system, urbanization, and the growth of trade led to the mixing of different dialects, especially in cities like London, which became a cultural and political center. The dialect spoken in London, known as the London dialect, started to gain prestige and eventually became the basis for what would later be considered Standard English [19, p. 44]. This trend was also encouraged by the publication of the Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, whose use of the London dialect helped to establish it as the dominant literary language of the time [11, p. 95].
The transition from Middle English to Early Modern English (1500–1700) was marked by several major events that contributed to the standardization of the language and the development of English dialects. One of the most significant of these events was the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century. The printing press allowed for the mass production of books and texts, and as a result, the written form of English began to spread more widely. This helped to consolidate the London dialect as the standard written form, as London was the center of publishing at the time [14, p. 67].
During the Early Modern English period, the language underwent major changes in terms of grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary. One of the most significant changes was the Great Vowel Shift, a major change in the pronunciation of vowels that took place between the 14th and 18th centuries. This shift affected the pronunciation of long vowels, which were raised or diphthongized in many dialects, resulting in the vowel system of Modern English. For example, the vowel sound in the word bite was once pronounced like the modern pronunciation of beet but shifted to its current sound during this period [6, p. 18].
The standardization of English was further accelerated by the publication of dictionaries and grammar books. In 1604, Robert Cawdrey published A Table Alphabeticall, the first dictionary of the English language, which aimed to standardize spelling and usage. This was followed by Samuel Johnson’s Dictionary of the English Language in 1755, which had a profound influence on English spelling and grammar [15, p. 112]. The emergence of standardized English, particularly through these literary and reference works, led to a decline in the use of regional dialects in writing, although spoken dialects continued to thrive in various parts of the country.
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, had a major impact on the development of regional dialects. The growth of industry and the expansion of cities led to a massive influx of people from rural areas into urban centers. This migration of populations contributed to the mixing of dialects and the formation of new urban speech patterns, particularly in working-class communities [9, p. 76].
The rise of industrialization also coincided with the rise of the British Empire, which spread English around the globe. As English spread to various parts of the world, it encountered other languages and dialects, leading to the development of new varieties of English. In Britain, however, dialects began to be seen as markers of social class and rurality. As the middle class grew in influence, the use of regional dialects came to be associated with less educated, rural speakers, while the use of Received Pronunciation (RP) became a symbol of social prestige and educational attainment [19, p. 44].
In the 20th century, the influence of mass media, education, and social mobility led to the widespread use of Standard English and a decline in the use of regional dialects. The spread of radio, television, and later the internet all contributed to the standardization of English across the United Kingdom, as well as globally. RP, once the preserve of the elite, became the prestige dialect in the media, and regional dialects were increasingly viewed as quaint, old-fashioned, or even inferior [6, p. 18].
Despite these shifts, regional dialects remain a significant part of English-speaking culture. Dialects such as Cockney, Scouse, Geordie, and Yorkshire continue to be spoken, and there has been a resurgence of interest in regional accents and dialects in the 21st century, particularly in the realms of popular culture and linguistic research. The rise of «local pride» movements and the influence of social media have also led to a renewed appreciation for dialectal diversity [15, p. 112].
The historical development of English dialects is a testament to the dynamic nature of language and the interplay between social, political, and cultural factors. From the Old English period to the present day, dialects have been shaped by historical events, migration patterns, and social change, and they continue to be a vital expression of regional and social identity. The history of English dialects illustrates how language evolves in response to societal needs and how it can serve as a powerful tool for understanding the past and present of a community.
1.3 Regional variations in english dialects
English dialects exhibit a rich variety of regional variations, each with its unique phonological, grammatical, and lexical features. These dialectal differences are not random; they are shaped by historical, geographical, and social factors, and they reflect the diverse cultural identities of the English-speaking world. The study of regional variations in English dialects offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between language, place, and identity.
The United Kingdom is home to a wide range of regional dialects, each with distinct characteristics. These dialects can be broadly categorized into three main regions: Northern, Midland, and Southern dialects. Within these regions, there are numerous sub-dialects that reflect the historical development of the language and the social makeup of the population. Northern English dialects are often characterized by their distinctive vowel sounds, vocabulary, and grammar. One of the most notable features of Northern English is the use of the short vowel sound /æ/ in words like bath and grass, as opposed to the long vowel sound /ɑː/ used in Southern English. For example, in Northern dialects, bath is pronounced as /bæθ/, whereas in Southern dialects it would be pronounced as /bɑːθ/ [6, p. 18].
Northern English also exhibits certain grammatical features not found in other parts of the country. For example, in many Northern dialects, the past tense of verbs such as have is formed using the auxiliary verb have in the present tense, e.g., I have went instead of I went [15, p. 112]. In standard English, such a construction requires the use of the past participle (the third form of the verb) after the auxiliary verb have. The correct form would be "I have gone". However, in Northern dialects, the past tense form went is sometimes used instead of the past participle. While this usage deviates from standard grammar, it reflects the unique grammatical patterns of Northern English and highlights the regional diversity of the language. This feature, known as «non-standard past tense,» is a relic of older forms of English. Additionally, Northern dialects often use distinct vocabulary items. For instance, in the North of England, the word bairn is used to refer to a child, whereas in the South, the word kid or child is more common. The word owt (anything) and nowt (nothing) are also characteristic of Northern speech [9, p. 76].
One of the most famous regional dialects in the North is Geordie, spoken in the Newcastle area. Geordie has its own unique set of phonological features, such as the use of the vowel sound /ʊ/ in words like foot and good. Geordie speakers also tend to use a distinctive set of vocabulary, such as canny (good or nice) and pet (a term of endearment) [19, p. 44].
The Midlands is a linguistic transition zone between the Northern and Southern regions. The dialects spoken in this area exhibit features of both Northern and Southern English but also have their own distinct characteristics. For example, in the Black Country, a dialect spoken in the West Midlands, there is a tendency to use non-standard grammatical forms such as double negatives (e.g., «I ain't done nothing») and unique vocabulary such as owk (work) and yow (you) [6, p. 18]. In the East Midlands, the dialect is more closely related to the Southern dialects but still retains some distinctive features. For example, in the city of Nottingham, speakers often use the word owt for «anything» and nowt for «nothing,» a feature common to many Northern dialects. Additionally, in the East Midlands, there is a tendency to use the non-rhotic pronunciation of the «r» sound in words like car and park, similar to the Southern dialects [9, p. 76].
Southern English dialects, including those spoken in London and the surrounding areas, are often characterized by their use of long vowels. For example, in the Southern dialects, words like bath and glass are pronounced with a long /ɑː/ vowel sound, in contrast to the Northern /æ/ sound [6, p. 18]. This feature is part of what linguists call the «southern drawl» or «southern English» accent.
Within Southern English, the Cockney dialect of East London has gained particular prominence. Cockney is famous for its use of rhyming slang, such as apples and pears for stairs, and the dropping of the h sound in words like house, pronounced as 'ouse [11, p. 95]. Cockney speakers also tend to replace the th sound with a glottal stop, so think becomes fink, and this becomes dis.
The Northeastern United States is home to a variety of distinct regional dialects, including those spoken in New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. New York English is particularly well-known for its distinctive vowel sounds, such as the pronounced r-lessness in words like car and park, which is a feature common to many Northern English dialects as well. New Yorkers also tend to use a «flapped t» sound, so better is pronounced as bedder [6, p. 18].
Boston English is famous for its «non-rhotic» pronunciation, in which the r sound is dropped from words like car and harbor. Additionally, Boston speakers often pronounce the a sound in words like bath and last with a broad a (/æ/), similar to some Northern English dialects. Vocabulary items such as bubbler (water fountain) and pahk the cah (park the car) are also characteristic of the Boston dialect [15, p. 112].
Southern American English, often associated with the southeastern United States, is another well-known variety of American English. Southern dialects are characterized by their distinct pronunciation patterns, including the use of a diphthong in words like ride (pronounced rahd), and the «Southern drawl» which elongates vowel sounds. The Southern dialect also features a non-rhotic pronunciation of the r sound, particularly in older Southern varieties, so car is pronounced as cah [9, p. 76]. Additionally, Southern English is known for its unique grammatical constructions, such as the use of y’all as the plural form of you, and the use of double modals like might could or should ought [19, p. 44]. The Southern dialect is also home to a rich vocabulary, with words like fixin' to (about to) and bless your heart (a phrase used to express sympathy or condescension) [6, p. 18].
African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a variety of American English spoken primarily by African Americans, particularly in urban areas. AAVE has its roots in the language of enslaved Africans and has developed into a distinct dialect with unique phonological, syntactical, and lexical features. AAVE is characterized by its use of a «habitual be,» where the verb be is used to indicate a repeated or habitual action, e.g., «He be working» (He is always working) [15, p. 112]. Phonologically, AAVE features the omission of the final consonant in words like test (pronounced tes), and the use of a distinct vowel system. The «r» sound is often dropped, similar to some Southern English dialects, so car becomes cah [19, p. 44].
Beyond the UK and the US, English dialects are found throughout the world, each influenced by local languages and cultures. In countries like Australia, Canada, South Africa, and India, English has developed unique regional dialects that reflect the historical, cultural, and social contexts of those areas. In Australia, for example, the Australian English dialect is known for its distinctive vowels, including the raising of diphthongs in words like my and time. Australian English also incorporates elements of Aboriginal languages, with words like boomerang and kangaroo entering the English lexicon [6, p. 18].
In South Africa, South African English has its own set of phonological and lexical features, influenced by Afrikaans, Dutch, and indigenous languages. For instance, in South African English, the vowel sound in bad is pronounced with a nasal quality, and vocabulary items such as robot (traffic light) and bakkie (pickup truck) are commonly used [19, p. 44].
The regional variations in English dialects reflect the language’s deep historical roots, its adaptability to different social and cultural contexts, and its role as a vehicle for personal and group identity. These dialects are not merely linguistic curiosities but are powerful markers of identity, community, and history. From the distinctive vowels of Northern English to the rhyming slang of Cockney, from the Southern drawl to African American Vernacular English, regional dialects continue to shape the way we communicate and how we perceive one another. The ongoing evolution of these dialects shows that language is a dynamic and ever-changing reflection of the people who speak it.
1.4 Theoretical framework: characterization and language
The relationship between regional identities and language is integral to understanding how characters in literature and narratives are constructed. Language acts as a fundamental marker of identity, and regional dialects allow authors to vividly portray social, cultural, and geographical distinctions. Through the linguistic behavior of characters, authors provide insights into their background, environment, and even their personal traits. Regional dialects do not merely add flavor to the narrative; they ground characters in a specific context, making their experiences more relatable and authentic. This use of language as a storytelling tool enhances the depth of characterization, enabling readers to connect more profoundly with the narrative. As a result, linguistic choices in literature often transcend mere stylistic decisions, becoming key elements in defining a character's identity and role within the story.
Characterization in literature often depends on linguistic features such as vocabulary, syntax, accent, and regional dialects to highlight individuality and background. For example, Northern English dialects in literature frequently evoke images of resilience, working-class pride, or community spirit, while Southern English accents often suggest privilege or formal education. These linguistic cues are not arbitrary; they actively shape the reader’s perception of the character and influence emotional engagement with the story. By incorporating specific dialects, authors can highlight cultural and social dynamics, offering a nuanced understanding of the character’s position within their environment. This interplay between language and perception demonstrates the power of linguistic choices in shaping not only the character but also the themes and tone of the narrative. Ultimately, the way characters speak can be as revealing as their actions or thoughts, making language a cornerstone of effective storytelling.
Regional dialects serve as markers of identity that intertwine with class, culture, and geography, shaping how characters are understood in narratives. These dialects often carry implicit connotations, helping the audience to quickly infer key aspects of a character’s social status or origin. For instance, a character speaking with a strong Cockney accent in a Dickens novel might be immediately associated with a lower socioeconomic background, industriousness, or humor, while someone using Received Pronunciation might evoke a sense of sophistication or authority. These associations are not merely decorative but serve as tools for authors to critique or reflect societal norms and prejudices. The use of regional dialects can also subvert expectations, challenging stereotypes and adding layers of complexity to characters. This dynamic between dialect and perception enriches the narrative and highlights the cultural diversity within the English language.
Theoretical frameworks like sociolinguistics, stylistics, and cognitive linguistics provide a foundation for analyzing the connection between language and characterization. Sociolinguistics explores how social factors such as class, ethnicity, and geography influence speech, helping to decode how these elements shape a character’s identity. Stylistics focuses on the creative use of language, showing how linguistic choices contribute to the narrative’s emotional and aesthetic impact. Cognitive linguistics examines the mental processes involved in interpreting linguistic cues, offering insights into how readers form images of characters based on their speech. Together, these approaches demonstrate the intricate relationship between language, identity, and narrative meaning. By applying these theories, we can better understand how authors use regional dialects not only to situate characters but also to convey deeper cultural and thematic messages.
English literature provides numerous examples of how regional dialects are used to create memorable and authentic characters. Charles Dickens, for instance, used Cockney speech to bring humor, energy, and realism to his portrayals of London’s working class, while contrasting it with the refined tones of the upper class to emphasize social divisions. Similarly, in Wuthering Heights, the use of Yorkshire dialect firmly roots the characters in their rural setting, reinforcing themes of isolation and raw emotion. Shane Meadows’ This is England further illustrates this by using regional accents to explore issues of identity and belonging in 1980s Britain. These examples show that language is not only a tool for authenticity but also a means of deepening the audience’s understanding of a character’s struggles and environment. Through linguistic choices, authors enhance the emotional and cultural resonance of their narratives, ensuring their characters remain impactful and believable.
Regional dialects in the English language are essential tools for constructing authentic and multidimensional characters, enriching narratives by reflecting cultural, social, and geographical identities.
CHAPTER 2. PRACTICAL ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL IDENTITIES IN THE FILM «THIS IS ENGLAND»
«This is England», directed by Shane Meadows, is a compelling and deeply emotional drama set in the early 1980s, which captures the complex and turbulent lives of a group of teenagers in post-Falklands War England. The film is a snapshot of British youth culture, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and social unrest against the backdrop of the rise of skinhead subculture and the conflicts of that time. Set in the bleak and often overlooked industrial landscape of England, the film invites viewers into the life of Shaun, a 12-year-old boy who has recently lost his father in the Falklands conflict.
The plot begins with Shaun's lonely existence in the wake of his father’s death. As the summer holidays approach, he finds himself increasingly isolated. However, things take a dramatic turn when he meets a group of skinhead youths led by Woody, who initially offers