METHODS OF INVESTIGATING SYMBOLS IN LITERARY TEXTS

Abstract

This article aims at examining methods of studying ethno specific literary symbols in an attempt to develop an integrated approach to analysis of the symbolic system in literary texts. Symbol is defined as universal, interdisciplinary notion.
As a linguistic unit, it is a folded sign characterised by its complex, metaphoric, image-bearing nature. Structurally, a symbol as a semiotic unit, consists of different layers which relate to historically acquired meanings. Cultural component is a domineering one in its semantic structure. Symbolic structure in literary texts proves to be multilayered and interconnected by means of associative-semantic ties.
The anthropological approach makes the methodological foundation for analysis of symbols. The main levels of analysing symbolism comprise linguocultural and linguocognitive ones. The linguocultural level is aimed at the study of cultural symbolism, its characteristics, deviations and modifications. The linguocognitive level presupposes the analysis of the correlation of symbols and concepts and the modelling of conceptual symbolic fields. Thus, it is proposed to include methods of traditional semantic analysis, as well as such method of investigation as field modeling of symbols. This approach enables deeper study of symbols as a discourse element and allows to single out symbolic cross-cultural markers in English texts.