Thesis Abstract
Linguistic differences in the Caribbean basin are usually assumed to have a divisive impact on regional identity, and are seen as impediments to a broader Caribbean regionalism (through CARICOM and the Association of Caribbean States (ACS)). This paper explores the ways in which Caribbean identities are being created that are “translingual”; that is, that exist in multiple linguistic sub-regions and transcend linguistic differences. This is undertaken through the discourse analysis of interviews and focus groups about cultural identity conducted with university students resident in the Caribbean. This is compared to a discourse analysis of textual data on the Caribbean provided by government organisations. Each interview is conducted in the native language of the respondents who are drawn from three Caribbean linguistic zones: Anglophone, Francophone, and Spanish-speaking. Pervasive symbols, metaphors and other representations for the Caribbean are identified in the field data and textual data obtained in each language, and consistent patterns present in all three languages are established. The level of personal attachment to these representations, and how they create a sense of proximity to Caribbean neighbours in the eyes of respondents are also explored. Particular attention is paid to the influence of spatial practice on representations of, and attachment to, Caribbean identity.
Keywords: cultural geography, language, identity, region, Caribbean. Supervisor: Dr.Susan Mains |
