A Systemic Functional Analysis of Theme in Modern Standard Arabic Texts

Abstract

The concept of Theme is regarded as a functional linguistic element that exists in many languages. The main aim of this study is to explore the functions of Theme in Arabic, applying the Systemic Functional Linguistics framework adopted by Downing (1991). Methodologically, several related real examples have been selected from the written discourse of Modern Standard Arabic and then analyzed contextually. The empirical analysis has revealed that (i) Theme can provide different functions, such as Individual, Circumstantial and Subjective and Logical Frameworks for the interpretation of the Rheme, and (ii) Theme can interact dynamically with different grammatical functions (e.g. Subject, Object, etc.) and have different pragmatic functions (e.g. Topic, Given and New information). Therefore, the view that makes a necessary link between Theme on the one hand and Noun Phrase, Topic or Given information on the other hand is proven incorrect and empirically invalid. Similar results have been obtained in the context of English (Downing 1991) but not yet for Arabic? This strengthens not only the universality of the concept of Theme but also its functions.

Linguistic Manifestations of Climate Change in the Qur’an: A Systemic Functional Linguistics Analysis

“…The verbal sentence is called fi'l in Arabic; whereas the nominal sentence is comprise of a noun which is called mubtada' in Arabic. Alfraidi (2021) cited what Goldenberg (2007, pp. 308-310) argued about the components of an Arabic sentence; i.e.…”

“…Simple themes in the clause are called experiential or topical themes which convey the representational meaning; whereas multiple themes include textual or interpersonal themes. Alfraidi (2021) cited how Gomez-Gonzalez (2001, p. 67) defined a theme as "the linguistic unit that denotes what the message is about". The latter…”

“…( ‫العدد‬ 82 ‫يناير‬ ) 8282 ‫م‬ Rehab Hassan Mahmoud Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) Alfraidi (2021) cited how Fontaine (2012, p. 5) defined SFL as "one of the dominant functional theories in linguistics". He also how Halliday (1979, p. 21) defined language as "an interactive social practice, and the main goal of the linguistic theory is to describe and interpret linguistic communication between human beings".…”