Language and Markedness
Prior to beginning work on this discussion, look at Van Herk’s questions regarding unmarked groups in Chapter 1. Also, read Van Herk’s discussion on “How Languages Encode Gender” in Chapter 7. Next, read the article, Marked Women, Unmarked Men
(Links to an external site.)
, by Tannen (1993). Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support any claims that you make with examples from the required materials and/or other scholarly sources, and properly cite any references.
Examine the article in relation to the questions posed by Van Herk regarding unmarked groups covered early in Chapter 1. Do you agree with the arguments posed in the article? Next, answer the following questions:
What are some unmarked categories in our society? Think of the various speech communities to which you belong, such as church and work.
What profile types and people would be considered unmarked and why?
Have you ever felt marked?
What is your agreement or disagreement with the article based on demographics, stereotypes, prejudices, and so forth?
What other aspects of socio linguistics, such as societal norms about fashion, entertainment, and scientific understanding about biology, are addressed in this article, and are any relatable to your own experiences?
