Contrastive Discourse Analysis of the Interpersonal Relationships Between the Two Main Characters of the English Novel Gone With the Wind and Its Vietnamese Translation Cuốn Theo Chiều Gió

This paper explored the interpersonal relationships between the characters Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara in the English novel Gone with the Wind and its Vietnamese translation, Cuốn theo chiều gió. By comparing the English and Vietnamese versions of their interactions, this study aimed to highlight how cultural and linguistic differences influence the portrayal of relationships. A comparative discourse analysis approach was employed, focusing on key dialogues and interactions between Rhett and Scarlett in both the original English text and the Vietnamese translation. The analysis examined linguistic strategies, speech acts, and interpersonal dynamics through a detailed examination of language use, politeness strategies, and emotional expression to understand how these elements vary between the two languages and reflect cultural differences. The study revealed distinct variations in how the interpersonal dynamics between Rhett and Scarlett are articulated in English and Vietnamese. In English, the discourse often emphasizes directness and emotional intensity, reflecting Western norms of assertiveness and individualism. In contrast, the Vietnamese translation tends to highlight indirectness and subtlety, aligning with cultural norms of politeness and respect. These differences underscore the influence of cultural context on interpersonal communication and relationship portrayal. The findings suggest that while the core narrative remains consistent, the nuances of character interactions are significantly shaped by linguistic and cultural factors. This study underscores the importance of considering cultural context in discourse analysis and translation studies, revealing how language reflects and constructs social relationships. Future research could explore other cultural pairs to further understand these dynamics in various contexts.