A PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS OF REFUSALS PERFORMED BY THE CHARACTERS IN STEVE MCQUEEN’S 12 YEARS A SLAVE

Abstract

          This research investigates refusals performed in Steve McQueen’s 12 Years a Slave. The objectives of the research are to identify the types, to describe the realizations, and to analyze the functions of refusals performed by all characters in 12 Years a Slave.

          The research applied descriptive-qualitative method. The data were in the form of utterances spoken by all characters in 12 Years a Slave, while the contexts of the data were the dialogues among the characters. The source of data was 12 Years a Slave movie. The data analysis was conducted by watching the movie; transferring the data into data sheet; identifying the data into the types, realizations, and functions of refusals; applying trustworthiness; and drawing conclusions. To enhance trustworthiness of the data, the data was triangulated by the researcher’s supervisors and fellow linguistic students.

          The results of the research are described as follows. First, there are three types of refusals which are performed by the characters in 12 Years a Slave. The types of refusals are direct type, indirect type, and adjuncts to refusals. Indirect type becomes the main type of refusals which is performed by the characters. Second, each type of refusals has particular realizations. Direct type is realized in the form of non-performative statement. Meanwhile, indirect type is in the form of the statement of an alternative, avoidance, excuse/reason/explanation, the attempt to dissuade the interlocutor, and the statement of a principle/philosophy. Then, adjuncts to refusals are realized in the form of gratitude/appreciation. Third, there are eight functions of refusals found in 12 Years a Slave. The functions of refusals include (1) showing a determination in refusing; (2) showing unwillingness to comply with the request, offer, suggestion, or invitation; (3) negotiating the request, offer, suggestion, or invitation; (4) avoiding a conflict or ending an argument with the refusee; (5) demanding understanding from the refusee; (6) mocking the refusee or the request, offer, suggestion, or invitation; (7) implying the unfairness of the request, offer, suggestion, or invitation; and (8) showing gratitude to the refusee.

Keywords: pragmatics, refusals, 12 Years a Slave