Parataxis in Profeta Gentileza’s writings

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the process of integration of clauses through paratactic relations found in the writings of the Profeta Gentileza. We use theoretical and methodological orientations of Usage Based Functional Linguistics. We propose an analysis including the parataxis in the discursive level, and the activity of the principle of iconicity in the linguistic organization of the text, with the theoretical support of rhetorical units. We aim to reflect on the pragmatic-discursive tensions acting on the constituent units of discourse, demonstrating the parataxis process is influenced by factors that are beyond the strictly linguistic level. We conclude the shorter clauses of parataxis ease repetition and memorization, a common aspect of religious and propagandistic texts. Furthermore, the strategic use of the parataxis is compatible with the parallelism frequently adopted by the Prophet Gentileza.