A Study Of Euphemisms In A Dream Of Red Mansions

The thesis is a thorough comb of the euphemistic expressions in A Dream of Red Mansions. 165 euphemisms are systematically examined here. Following the definition of the term of euphemism, the body of the thesis, divided into four parts, chooses four perspectives on the research: firstly, in studying euphemism formation, a model raised by Warren is investigated and the rules and categories suggested are tested by euphemisms in A Dream of Red Mansions. It is suggested that there still is room for improvements in Warren's model if all examples are to be explained in the novel. Secondly, we argue that, only by differentiating form from meaning, can we make clear the mechanism of euphemism and its interpretation. The transfer of meaning is among metaphorical mapping, metonymical mapping. Thirdly, the thesis analyzes the functions and strategic use of euphemisms in A Dream of Red Mansions and thus emphasizing the importance of euphemisms. Last but not least, the thesis gives a cultural survey to euphemisms in the novel. We try to enrich the research of euphemisms and illustrate its close relationship with culture and we are hopeful that the thesis can provide valuable language material for further systematic studying of euphemisms.