A Study Of Passive Voice In Rainbow Rowell's Novel Eleanor And Park

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Introduction

In the realm of language learning, passive voice is often overlooked, despite its significance in enriching meaning and context in a paper. However, in the world of literature, passive voice plays a crucial role in creating a deeper narrative and character development. This study aims to explore the patterns of passive sentences contained in various tenses in Rainbow Rowell's novel, Eleanor and Park. The main purpose of this study is to identify patterns and classification of passive sentences in different contexts of tense.

Background

Rainbow Rowell's novel, Eleanor and Park, is a heart-wrenching love story that takes place in the 1980s. The novel explores the complexities of human relationships, identity, and social issues. Through the use of language, Rowell masterfully weaves a narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking. One of the key elements that contribute to the novel's success is the use of passive voice. By employing passive voice, Rowell creates a sense of detachment, allowing the reader to focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators.

Methodology

This study employed a qualitative approach, where researchers collected sentences that contain passive sentence patterns from certain chapters in the novel. The data collection method used is sampling, where researchers identified and analyzed passive sentences in various tenses, including Present Simple, Past Simple, and Future Tense. The analysis of passive sentences was conducted using a combination of linguistic and literary theories.

Passive Sentence Analysis

Passive sentences are often characterized by the use of the verb "to be" in the present, past, or future tense, followed by the past participle of the main verb. For example, in a simple tense present, passive sentence structure usually follows the pattern "to be" + past participle. Similarly, in Past Simple, the pattern used is "WAS/WERE" + PAST Participle. Through this analysis, the reader can better understand how Rainbow Rowell uses passive sentences to describe the emotions and conditions of the characters.

Passive Sentence Classification

The passive sentence classification found in this study varies greatly. Passive sentences can be categorized based on tense, as well as the meaning to be conveyed by the author. For example, a few passive sentences show a powerful state of character, while others may emphasize the sad experience. This classification provides a deeper insight about the writing techniques used by Rowell and how the technique contributes to character development and storyline.

Findings

The analysis of passive sentences in Eleanor and Park revealed several patterns and classification. The study found that passive sentences are used to create a sense of detachment, allowing the reader to focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators. The study also found that passive sentences are used to convey emotions and conditions of the characters, such as sadness, happiness, and power.

Conclusion

This study made a significant contribution in linguistic and literary studies, especially in understanding how passive sentences can be used to improve the quality of narration and deepen the reader's understanding of the character and story. The findings of this study provide a new perspective on the use of language in literature and highlight the importance of passive voice in creating a deeper narrative. The study also provides a deeper insight into the writing techniques used by Rowell and how the technique contributes to character development and storyline.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  • Language learners should pay attention to the use of passive voice in literature and practice using it in their writing.
  • Teachers and educators should incorporate the study of passive voice into their language learning curriculum.
  • Researchers should continue to explore the use of passive voice in literature and its impact on narrative and character development.

Limitations

This study has several limitations. The study only analyzed passive sentences in Eleanor and Park, and the findings may not be generalizable to other novels. Additionally, the study only focused on the use of passive voice in literature and did not explore its use in other genres, such as poetry or drama.

Future Research Directions

Future research should explore the use of passive voice in other genres, such as poetry or drama. Additionally, researchers should investigate the impact of passive voice on narrative and character development in different cultural and linguistic contexts.

References

  • Rowell, R. (2012). Eleanor and Park. St. Martin's Press.
  • Halliday, M. A. K. (1994). An introduction to functional grammar. Edward Arnold.
  • Thompson, G. (1996). Introducing functional grammar. Arnold.

Appendix

Q: What is passive voice, and why is it important in literature?

A: Passive voice is a grammatical construction in which the subject of the sentence is acted upon by the verb, rather than performing the action. In literature, passive voice is used to create a sense of detachment, allowing the reader to focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators. It is an important tool for authors to convey emotions, conditions, and relationships between characters.

Q: How does Rainbow Rowell use passive voice in Eleanor and Park?

A: Rainbow Rowell uses passive voice to create a sense of detachment, allowing the reader to focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators. She employs passive voice to convey emotions, conditions, and relationships between characters, such as sadness, happiness, and power.

Q: What are some examples of passive sentences in Eleanor and Park?

A: Some examples of passive sentences in Eleanor and Park include:

  • "The bus was driven by a man with a kind face." (Here, the subject "the bus" is acted upon by the verb "was driven".)
  • "Eleanor was loved by her mother." (Here, the subject "Eleanor" is acted upon by the verb "was loved".)
  • "The park was visited by Park and Eleanor." (Here, the subject "the park" is acted upon by the verb "was visited".)

Q: What are the benefits of using passive voice in writing?

A: The benefits of using passive voice in writing include:

  • Creating a sense of detachment, allowing the reader to focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators.
  • Conveying emotions, conditions, and relationships between characters.
  • Adding variety to writing and avoiding repetition.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when using passive voice?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when using passive voice include:

  • Using passive voice excessively, which can make writing seem dull and unengaging.
  • Using passive voice to avoid taking responsibility or accountability for actions.
  • Using passive voice to create ambiguity or confusion.

Q: How can I improve my writing by using passive voice effectively?

A: To improve your writing by using passive voice effectively, follow these tips:

  • Use passive voice to create a sense of detachment and focus on the actions or situations rather than the perpetrators.
  • Use passive voice to convey emotions, conditions, and relationships between characters.
  • Use passive voice to add variety to your writing and avoid repetition.

Q: What are some resources for learning more about passive voice?

A: Some resources for learning more about passive voice include:

  • Grammar guides and textbooks.
  • Online resources and tutorials.
  • Writing workshops and classes.

Q: Can I use passive voice in other genres, such as poetry or drama?

A: Yes, you can use passive voice in other genres, such as poetry or drama. However, the use of passive voice may be more subtle or implicit in these genres. Experiment with different forms and styles to find the best way to use passive voice in your writing.

Q: What are some future research directions for studying passive voice?

A: Some future research directions for studying passive voice include:

  • Investigating the use of passive voice in different cultural and linguistic contexts.
  • Exploring the impact of passive voice on narrative and character development in different genres.
  • Analyzing the use of passive voice in different forms of media, such as film or television.