Unveiling Cultural Perspectives and Societal Influences: A Comparative Analysis of Speech Acts in A Passage to India and Cracking India

Abstract

Pragmatics, the study of meaning in communication, plays a pivotal role in understanding cultural and societal influences on language use. This research delves into the realm of pragmatic studies by examining speech acts as a reflection of collective social consciousness. It aims to explore the distinct cultural and societal perspectives embedded within the novels A Passage to India by E. M. Forster, representing English culture, and Cracking India (Ice Candy Man) by Bapsi Sidhwa, representing Pakistani culture. Both novels share a backdrop of historical and cultural interaction in the Indo-Pak sub-continent. Drawing on J. L. Austin and J. R. Searle's theory of speech acts, this study conducts a comparative analysis of three major speech acts—commanding, complaining, and thanking—within these narratives. Examples from dialogues are compiled and examined systematically. Whereas A Passage to India vividly portrays the pride and arrogance of English society during the era of British colonial rule, Cracking India offers a nuanced perspective of Indians, particularly Pakistani Muslims, during the turbulent partition period. These narratives reveal the profound impact of cultural differences on divergent opinions. By shedding light on these cultural perspectives through speech acts, this research contributes valuable insights to the field of pragmatics, speech act analysis and language study.