Representation of Image-Scheme Container With in-Out Orientation in the English-Language Fictional Text

Abstract

This article highlights the parameters of figurative conceptualization of the set of knowledge about the world and reveals cognitive specifics of metaphorical conceptualization of the CONTAINER image-schema with IN-OUT orientation in the English literary text. The article proves that the conceptualization process within the CONTAINER image-schema is based on Langacker’s "viewing metaphor", which is associated with human experience, based on our ability to see and perceive objects in our field of view. Metaphorical extensions of the CONTAINER image-schema conceptualize different spheres of reality, because they establish the relationship between the source domain (the concept based on human physical experience) and the target domain (abstract concept). In Doris Lessing's short story "To Room Nineteen", the authors found conceptual metaphors structured by the CONTAINER image-schema with the corresponding domains, which are verbalized by prepositions in, inside, into, out, adjectives inner, filled, full, etc. Dominant conceptual domains were selected: HOUSE, ROOM, GARDEN, MARRIAGE, BODY, HOTEL ROOM. The method of interpretive analysis was used to determine that the conceptual metaphors HOUSE is PRISON, MARRIAGE is PRISON and BODY is PRISON are involved in the formation of metaphors LIFE is PRISON, DEATH is LIBERATION, which are also structured by the CONTAINER image-schema. The relationships between the target domains HOUSE, MARRIAGE, BODY and the source domain PRISON are established by the following words and phrases: "freedom", "living out prison sentence", "prisoner", "never being free", "she felt even more caged”, “forbade”, “barred”. In addition, the death of the main character of the short story is described as a process of drifting into a dark river. As a result, according to the metaphor DEATH is LIBERATION, the image of the river in the story becomes a symbol of freedom. Thus, the conceptual metaphors reveal the problem of a woman sacrificing her own identity for the sake of family life. On the example of the main character of the short story, we can see that such a problem leads to suicide.