UDC

81ʼ3:81’11

Authors

Galina T. Bezkorovaynaya
Moscow Polytechnic University; ul. Pryanishnikova 2, korp. 1, Moscow, 127550, Russian Federation; e-mail: begati1@yandex.ru

Abstract

The study of nation-specific concepts is becoming increasingly popular in linguistic research. In English linguoculture, a significant role is played by the concept of the gentleman. This paper aimed to analyse the origin of this concept in the English language, its semantics and evolution. The author examined treatises and essays of the 15th – 18th centuries on the etymology of the lexeme under study, main characteristics and peculiarities of the concept of nobility and its bearer – the gentleman – in the English language, history and culture. Originally, this concept was directly connected with being born to a noble family and possessing land. With time, it became ambivalent, as gentleman started to be associated with certain high moral qualities and behaviour, which is described in the works of philosophers, writers, scientists and heralds of the 15th – 18th centuries. According to T. Eliot, whose work The Book Named the Governor is rightfully considered to be an educational treatise on how to train a proper English gentleman, the process of formation should begin from the very birth and continue up to maturity. A gentleman should be highly educated, reserved, gallant, etc. J. Lawrence’s book On the Nobility of the British Gentry, or The Political Ranks and Dignities presents the etymology of the lexeme gentleman, dwells on the history of the concepts of gentleness and nobleness, as well as analyses significant historical and philosophical conceptions about this important concept in English linguoculture. In addition, the paper provides references to a number of other popular and important works on this topic. The author concludes that the meaning of the nation-specific concept of the gentleman has widened over time and become universal.

Keywords

English linguoculture, national worldview, linguocultural concept, concept of the gentleman

References

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