"Verbal Irony in ‘Maleficent’ from the Perspective of Speech Act

Theory (Illocutionary & Perlucutionary)"

RESEARCH PROPOSAL

Submitted as the fulfillment of the final semester assignment for the

Research Methodology in Linguistic course

Arranged by:

Mutiara Auralia Wonggo

321421027

ENGLISH LANGUAGE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

FACULTY OF LETTERS AND CULTURE

UNIVERSITAS NEGERI GORONTALO

2023
 PREFACE

Beginning with gratitude for the presence of Allah SWT, I express my sincere
appreciation for His mercy, grace, and guidance that enabled me to complete this
research proposal titled "Verbal Irony in ‘Maleficent’ from the Perspective of
Speech Act Theory (Illocutionary & Perlucutionary)" to the best of my abilities.
Throughout the process of preparing this proposal, I have gained valuable
experience and acquired new knowledge, all made possible by Allah's blessings.

I extend my prayers and salutations to our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW,

who serves as a noble example for all Muslims, guiding us in our endeavors to
attain prosperity in both this world and the hereafter.

The journey of crafting this research proposal was not without its challenges and
difficulties. Countless revisions and additions were made along the way.
However, with the blessings and assistance of Allah SWT, I successfully
completed the proposal within the specified time frame. My heartfelt gratitude
goes to Dr. Rahman Taufiqrianto Dako, S.S, M.Hum, for his patient guidance and
teachings throughout the preparation of this proposal..

I sincerely hope that this proposal and its subsequent phases proceed smoothly.
May it prove beneficial to others and be considered a form of worship before
Allah SWT.

Gorontalo, 11 December 2023

Mutiara Auralia Wonggo

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PREFACE................................................................................................................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................3
CHAPTER I............................................................................................................4
INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................4
Background of Study............................................................................................4
Research Question................................................................................................8
The Aim of Study.................................................................................................8
Research Significance..........................................................................................9
Scope of Research..............................................................................................10
CHAPTER II........................................................................................................11
LITERATURE REVIEW....................................................................................11
Pragmatic............................................................................................................11
Irony...................................................................................................................13
Situational Irony.................................................................................................14
Verbal Irony.......................................................................................................15
Speech Act..........................................................................................................16
Illocutionary Act.................................................................................................17
Perlucotionary Act..............................................................................................21
CHAPTER III......................................................................................................24
METHODOLOGY RESEARCH.......................................................................24
Research Methods..............................................................................................24
Data Collection...................................................................................................24
Data Analysis.....................................................................................................25
Bibliography.........................................................................................................29
 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

This is the first chapter of the proposal. This chapter is used as an introduction of
the proposal. The content of this chapter is: the background of study, research
question, research objective and research significance.

Background of Study
Language is the expression of ideas through speech sounds combined into words
and sentences, allowing communication of emotional or mental conceptions
between living beings. (J. Daniel et al.). Language is a remarkable and intricate
system of communication that serves as the bedrock of human interaction, culture,
and cognition. It encompasses a wide array of forms, including spoken, written,
signed, and symbolic expressions, enabling individuals to convey thoughts,
emotions, and information. This multifaceted phenomenon plays a pivotal role in
shaping societies, fostering connections, and encoding the collective wisdom of
humanity.

At its core, language is a dynamic and adaptable system of symbols and rules.
These symbols, whether spoken words, written characters, or signed gestures,
carry meaning within a given linguistic community. The rules, often referred to as
grammar, govern the arrangement and combination of these symbols to create
meaningful messages. It is this capacity for complexity and nuance that
distinguishes human language from other forms of communication in the natural
world.Language also a complex and dynamic system of communication used by
humans to convey thoughts, feelings, and information. It is a fundamental aspect
of human existence, playing a crucial role in social interaction, cultural
expression, and cognitive development. This comprehensive and evolving
phenomenon can be explored through various dimensions, including its structure,
function, evolution, and impact on society. At its core, language exhibits a
systematic structure that allows for meaningful communication. This structure
includes phonology (sounds), morphology (word formation), syntax (sentence
structure), semantics (meaning), and pragmatics (language use in context). Each
of these components contributes to the richness and versatility of human language.

Linguistics is the scientific study of natural language, encompassing grammar,

semantics, pragmatics, morphology, syntax, phonology, sociolinguistic, and
psycholinguistic aspects.( K. Huda et al.). Pragmatic refers to the study of
language in use, emphasizing the practical aspects of communication and how
context influences the interpretation of language. Pragmatics is a subfield of
linguistics. Pragmatic analysis explores how language is used in specific
situations, considering the social context, the speakers' intentions, and the shared
knowledge between communicators. Pragmatics examines aspects of language use
such as speech acts, implicature, deixis, and politeness strategies. It delves into
how people use language to achieve their communicative goals in different social
and cultural settings.

Pragmatics involves linguistic expressions, users, and possible contexts of use,

and is primarily concerned with truth and satisfaction with respect to a context of
use. (R. Montague et al.) Pragmatics is concerned with the study of language in
use, encompassing how context influences the interpretation of linguistic
expressions. Illocutionary acts are a fundamental aspect of pragmatics, as they
focus on the intended force or function of an utterance beyond its literal meaning.
Pragmatic analysis involves examining how illocutionary acts contribute to the
overall meaning of an utterance in a specific context. Pragmatics emphasizes the
importance of context in understanding the meaning of utterances. Speech act
theory is a significant component of pragmatics, a subfield of linguistics that
studies language use in context. Pragmatics goes beyond the study of formal
linguistic structures and focuses on how language is used to achieve
communicative goals in various social situations. Speech act theory, developed
primarily by J.L. Austin and further expanded by John Searle, is integral to
understanding the pragmatic aspects of language. Speech act theory aligns with
this perspective by highlighting that the meaning of an utterance is not solely
determined by its linguistic structure but also by the context in which it is used.

Speech act theory distinguishes between locutionary acts (the act of uttering
words), illocutionary acts (the intended communicative force or action), and
perlocutionary acts (the effects on the listener). Illocutionary acts are particularly
relevant to pragmatics, as they capture the speaker's communicative intent and the
force behind the utterance. "Illocutionary" refers to the illocutionary act that
focuses on the intended communicative effects or functions of an utterance.
Understanding illocutionary acts is essential in pragmatics, which is the study of
language use in context, as it helps analyze the social functions and
communicative intentions behind linguistic expressions. Irony In pragmatic terms,
is a linguistic phenomenon where there is a disjunction between the literal
meaning of words and the intended meaning of the speaker. It involves a situation
where what is said is different from what is meant, and the understanding of the
utterance requires the listener to recognize this incongruity. According to Rao Da
et al. Irony can be analyzed using Austin Searle's speech act theory, revealing
character traits from the perspective of illocutionary and per-locutionary acts.

According to R. Giora et al. Irony is a mode of indirect negation that involves

processing both negated and implicated messages, making it more difficult to
understand than nonironic language. Irony often involves a contrast between the
literal or surface meaning of the words used and the underlying, intended
meaning. This contrast creates a form of indirect communication. Irony is closely
related to pragmatics because the interpretation of ironic statements often depends
on the context, the speaker's intentions, and the listener's understanding.
Pragmatics helps explain how the meaning of an ironic statement is conveyed
beyond the literal words used.

For example, in verbal irony, the speaker may say one thing while intending the
opposite. Pragmatics helps in understanding the speaker's communicative
intention and how the listener interprets the statement in light of the context.
While irony involves a contrast between what is said and what is meant,
pragmatics explores the contextual and social factors that influence the
interpretation of language, making it a useful framework for understanding the use
of irony in communication.

In this research, the researcher aims to conduct a thorough investigation into the
use of irony within the film "Maleficent" from the perspective of Speech Act
Theory. Film, as a form of visual storytelling, is a rich and multifaceted medium
that offers a multitude of elements for analysis and research. Films can serve as
valuable tools in linguistic research, offering researchers a rich and diverse source
of linguistic data for analysis. When it comes to studying irony in film, it opens up
a fascinating avenue for exploration. Irony in film refers to the use of words or
situations to convey a meaning opposite to their literal interpretation. Film
dialogues offer a unique opportunity for microstructural analysis, as linguistic
information can be linked with iconic, aural, and situational details, revealing
differences and similarities in language structure. (Christine Heiss et al.)
"Maleficent" is an intriguing film to study for irony in its pragmatic context
because it utilizes numerous narrative, visual, and character elements to convey
messages that contradict the audience's common expectations. Several reasons
why this film is suitable for researching irony in its pragmatic context involve
social situations, characters, and the film's dialogue. Irony is often found in
implicitly conveyed dialogue. Researching how characters communicate,
including the use of double entendre or sarcasm, can provide insights into how
irony is used in a pragmatic context.

"Maleficent" is a 2014 fantasy film directed by Robert Stromberg and produced

by Walt Disney Pictures. The movie is a live-action adaptation that reimagines the
classic Disney animated film "Sleeping Beauty" (1959) and offers a different
perspective by focusing on the character of Maleficent, who is traditionally
portrayed as the villain. "Maleficent" is a fantasy adventure film that re-imagines
the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty and explores the complexities of good and evil.
The story revolves around a powerful fairy named Maleficent, who lives in the
Moors, a magical realm bordering a human kingdom. As a child, Maleficent
meets a human peasant boy named Stefan and falls in love with him. However,
Stefan's desire for power and greed leads to him betraying Maleficent, causing her
to place a curse on Aurora, the princess of the human kingdom. The film delves
into themes of love, relationships, forgiveness, and the struggle to be decent in a
troubled world. Maleficent's character is complex, with her actions driven by both
malice and a sense of justice. She tries to undo the curse she placed on Aurora but
cannot, and in the process, develops a deep bond with the princess.

The character of Maleficent, traditionally portrayed as a one-dimensional villain

in Disney's "Sleeping Beauty," is reimagined with depth and complexity in this
film. Analyzing the speech acts of Maleficent allows for an exploration of her
motives, intentions, and the nuanced ways in which she communicates.

Therefore, the primary objective of this research is to conduct a comprehensive

investigation into the manifestation of irony within the film "Maleficent" using the
framework of Speech Act Theory, with a specific focus on both illocutionary and
perlocutionary acts. Through an in-depth analysis of characters' verbal
expressions, intentions, and the resulting impacts on both the narrative and
audience, this study aims to uncover the nuanced layers of irony inherent in the
characters' speech acts. By employing the Speech Act Theory, the research seeks
to unravel the complexities of communication within the film, shedding light on
the intricacies of illocutionary intentions behind characters' words and the
subsequent perlocutionary effects on both the fictional world and the viewers'
interpretation. This investigation ultimately contributes to a deeper understanding
of how irony is intricately woven into the fabric of "Maleficent," enhancing the
narrative depth and viewer engagement within the context of speech acts.

Research Question
Based on the background above, the researchers formulated the problem as
follows:

How is verbal irony manifested in the film "Maleficent" through the perspective
of Speech Act Theory, with a specific emphasis on both illocutionary and
perlocutionary acts?
The Aim of Study
The aim of the study titled "Verbal Irony in ‘Maleficent’ from the Perspective of
Speech Act Theory (Illocutionary & Perlucutionary)" is to provide a
comprehensive analysis of the use and impact of irony within the film, utilizing
Speech Act Theory as the theoretical framework. The study aims to achieve the
following objectives:

Explore the Manifestations of Irony: Investigate and identify instances of irony

within the dialogues, actions, or situations presented in the film "Maleficent." This
involves a meticulous examination of verbal and situational irony to understand
how irony is employed throughout the narrative.

Apply Speech Act Theory: Utilize Speech Act Theory to analyze the illocutionary
acts associated with ironic expressions in the film. By applying this theoretical
framework, the study seeks to categorize the types of illocutionary acts involved
in the delivery of ironic statements and actions.

Examine Perlocutionary Effects: Investigate the perlocutionary effects of irony on

the audience's emotional responses, attitudes, and interpretation of the film's
themes. This includes understanding how irony contributes to shaping the
audience's emotional engagement, their attitudes toward characters and themes,
and the overall impact on their viewing experience.

Research Significance
The significance of a study on irony in the film "Maleficent" from the perspective
of Speech Act Theory lies in its potential to contribute valuable insights to several
academic and practical domains. Here are key areas where the research holds
significance:

1. Contribution to Film Studies:

The study contributes to the field of film studies by offering a nuanced

examination of irony within the narrative of "Maleficent." Understanding how
irony operates in the cinematic context provides a deeper appreciation of the film's
storytelling techniques, character dynamics, and thematic elements.
2. Enhancing Speech Act Theory in Cinematic Analysis:

By applying Speech Act Theory to analyze irony in film, the research enriches the
theoretical framework. This contributes to the ongoing dialogue between
linguistic theories and cinematic analysis, shedding light on the intersections
between language use and visual storytelling.

3. Insights into Narrative Construction:

The study aims to uncover how irony functions as a narrative device within
"Maleficent." Insights into the narrative construction facilitated by ironic
expressions can enhance our understanding of storytelling strategies in cinema,
providing filmmakers and scholars with valuable lessons for narrative innovation..

Scope of Research
The scope of this research will primarily focus on the analysis of verbal irony in
the film "Maleficent" through the theoretical lens of Speech Act Theory,
specifically examining illocutionary and perlocutionary acts. The study aims to
explore how characters' intentions, as conveyed through speech acts, contribute to
the overall narrative complexity and audience engagement. The research will
concentrate on key scenes and dialogues where verbal irony is prominent,
allowing for a detailed examination of the characters' communicative intentions
and the subsequent effects on both the fictional world and the audience.

The investigation will involve a thorough examination of relevant literature on

Speech Act Theory, film analysis, and irony in order to establish a theoretical
framework. The primary data source will be the film "Maleficent," and the
analysis will be conducted on selected scenes, emphasizing instances where
speech acts play a crucial role in conveying irony. The study will also consider the
broader cinematic context, including visual elements, to provide a comprehensive
understanding of how verbal irony operates within the narrative.

It is important to note that the research scope is limited to verbal irony and its
associated illocutionary and perlocutionary acts within the specified film. While
the findings may contribute insights to the broader field of film studies and
communication theory, the research does not extend to a comprehensive analysis
of all forms of irony, nor does it encompass a comparative analysis with other
films or genres. The intention is to delve deeply into the nuances of verbal irony
within "Maleficent" and to provide a focused exploration of its implications
within the framework of Speech Act Theory.

CHAPTER II

LITERATURE REVIEW

This is the second chapter of the proposal. This chapter is used as a literature
review of the proposal. The content of this chapter is: Pragmatic, Speech Act,
Illocutionary act, perlocutionary act and Irony.

Pragmatic
In the realm of linguistics and its allied disciplines, pragmatics investigates the
role of context in shaping meaning. This academic field examines how human
language functions within social interactions and explores the dynamic between
the one conveying a message and the one receiving it. Scholars specializing in this
area are referred to as pragmaticians. The International Pragmatics Association
(IPrA) has been a representative body for this field since 1986. Pragmatics is the
social-cognitive basis of communication that includes speech acts, metaphors,
proverbs, idioms, and irony, crucial for understanding non-literal meaning. (J.
Rasgado-Toledo et al.) Pragmatics, as a subfield of linguistics, encompasses
various types and aspects that help in understanding how context contributes to
meaning in communication. Here are some key types of pragmatics:

- Deixis: Deixis is an important component of pragmatics, involving syntax,

text, literature, translation, and cognition. (OU Li-sha et al.) Deixis refers
to the use of linguistic expressions that rely on the context for their
interpretation. Pronouns like "this," "that," "here," and "there" are
examples of deixis.
- Speech Acts: Speech acts are a crucial aspect of pragmatics, allowing
speakers to convey physical actions through words and phrases, making it
easier for speakers and listeners to understand the intended meaning in
foreign languages. (Agus Hidayat et al.) Speech acts involve the study of
utterances as actions, focusing on the speaker's intention behind the words.
Examples include making promises, requests, or giving commands.
- Implicature: According to Latif Amrullah et al. Implicature in
communication is a key tool used to bond interlocuters and understand
communication processes, using speech events, reference, cultural
background, and daily experience. Implicature deals with the implied
meaning that arises in conversation beyond what is explicitly stated. It
involves understanding what is meant but not explicitly said.
- Presupposition: Pragmatic presupposition plays a crucial role in spoken
communication, affecting the meaning and context of the communication.
(Ding Li-lan et al.) Presupposition involves assumptions or background
beliefs that are taken for granted in a conversation. Utterances can carry
presuppositions that listeners are expected to share.
- Conversational Maxims: Derived from Grice's Cooperative Principle,
conversational maxims are guidelines that speakers and listeners typically
follow to ensure effective communication. They include maxims of
quantity, quality, relation, and manner.
- Politeness Strategies: Politeness strategies involve the use of language to
maintain social harmony and avoid face-threatening acts. This includes
linguistic expressions that convey respect and mitigate potential offense.
- Metapragmatics: Metapragmatics refers to the ability to reflect on and talk
about language use. It involves understanding and discussing the rules and
conventions that govern communication.
- Scalar Implicature: Scalar implicature occurs when the use of a specific
term implies the exclusion of more extreme alternatives. For example,
saying "some" might imply "not all."
 - Irony and Sarcasm: Irony involves saying something but meaning the
opposite for humorous or emphatic effect. Sarcasm is a form of verbal
irony that often conveys contempt or ridicule.
- Indirect Speech Acts: Indirect speech acts occur when the intended
meaning is conveyed implicitly rather than explicitly. For example, asking
a question can be a polite way of making a request.
- Indexicality: Indexicality involves words or expressions whose meaning
depends on the context, such as personal pronouns or demonstratives.

These types of pragmatics are interconnected and play crucial roles in

understanding how language is used in real-life communication. Pragmatics, as a
field, aims to unravel the intricate ways in which context, social dynamics, and
intention contribute to the meaning of linguistic expressions.

Irony
Irony involves processing both negated and implicated messages, making it more
difficult to understand than nonironic language, but speakers use it for specific
communicative goals. (R. Giora et al.) Irony is a rhetorical device or figure of
speech in which there is a discrepancy between what is said and what is meant, or
between expectations and reality. It involves a subtle or humorous incongruity
between appearances and actuality. According to Deirdre Wilson and Dan Sperber
from the book Meaning and Relevance, one of the goals of pragmatics is to
describe this ability and thus explain how irony is understood.

The central aspect of ironic expressions is their tendency to have a discernible

"victim" or target, towards whom the irony is directed. Identifying this target is
crucial for understanding the speaker's intended meaning in ironic statements.
Relevance theorists explicitly acknowledge the concept of the victim in irony,
suggesting that analyzing irony as a form of mention allows for predicting which
ironic statements will have a specific victim and who that victim might.
According to the echoic mention approach to irony, the speaker typically
distances themselves from the originator of the echoed statement, whether that be
a specific speaker or the general public adhering to the accepted viewpoint
(Weizman, 2000: 239).

Holdcroft (1983: 497) also contends that while the exact target may not always be
apparent, the graspability of irony lies in the recognition that there could be one.
Irony becomes challenging to comprehend only when the target cannot be
identified in any terms whatsoever. Situational irony and verbal irony are two
main types of irony, with coexisting situations in pragmatic characteristics and
understanding mechanisms. (Zhao Yan-li et al.)

Situational Irony
Situational irony, found in literary works and everyday life, is a cognitively
important type of irony with pragmatic characteristics. (Tu Jing et al.). Situational
irony is a concept that individuals possess, containing representations of event
types and typifying features, which can be used to categorize events and
understand their meaning. (J. Lucariello et al.)

Situational irony is a type of irony that occurs when there is a contrast between
what is expected to happen in a story and what actually occurs. It involves a
discrepancy between the anticipated outcome and the reality of the situation, often
leading to a surprising or unexpected twist. Situational irony is a powerful literary
device that can add depth, complexity, and humor to a narrative.

Situational irony also defined as a literary and rhetorical device where there is a
discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. It
involves a sharp contrast between what the audience or characters anticipate and
the reality of the situation. Situational irony often results in unexpected outcomes
that can be humorous, tragic, or thought-provoking. Here are key features and
examples of situational irony:

Features of Situational Irony:

Contrast: Situational irony is characterized by a stark contrast between

what is expected and what transpires.
 Unexpected Outcome: The outcome of the situation is surprising and goes
against conventional expectations.
Enhances Dramatic Effect: It is often used in literature, drama, and film to
enhance the dramatic effect and engage the audience's emotions.
Incongruity: There is an incongruity between the circumstances as
perceived or anticipated and the actual unfolding of events.

Examples of Situational Irony:

- Fire Station on Fire:

Expectation: Fire stations are equipped to handle fires.
Reality: The fire station itself catches fire.
- The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry:
Expectation: The characters sacrifice to buy each other gifts.
Reality: The gifts they buy become useless due to the sacrifices made.
- A Lottery Win with a Twist:
Expectation: Winning the lottery brings fortune.
Reality: The lottery win leads to unforeseen problems or tragedies.
- Life-Saving Umbrella:
Expectation: An umbrella protects from rain.
Reality: The umbrella, meant for protection, causes harm in an unexpected
way.
- The Titanic's "Unsinkable" Status:
Expectation: The Titanic is touted as unsinkable.
Reality: The Titanic tragically sinks on its maiden voyage.
Doctor's Negligence:
Expectation: Doctors are expected to provide care and healing.
Reality: The doctor's negligence causes harm to the patient.
- Butterfly Effect:
Expectation: Small actions have small consequences.
Reality: Small actions can lead to significant and unexpected outcomes.
Situational irony adds depth and complexity to narratives by challenging
preconceived notions and provoking thought. It creates memorable and impactful
moments by defying the audience's expectations, leaving a lasting impression on
readers or viewers.

Verbal Irony
Verbal irony is a form of irony in which the speaker utters something with words
that have a literal meaning that contradicts the speaker's actual intention or
feelings. Verbal irony performs more pragmatic functions of condemnation,
humor, and speaker protection than hyperbole and literal comments, with stronger
irony being more effective. Verbal irony creates a stronger contrast between
expected and experienced events, making it funnier, more criticizing, and more
expressive of differences between expected and ensuing events than
understatement. ( Herbert L. Colston et al.).

Verbal irony is a figure of speech in which a speaker says something but means
the opposite. It occurs when there is a contrast between the literal meaning of the
words used and the intended meaning conveyed by the speaker. Verbal irony is
often employed for various rhetorical effects, including humor, emphasis, or
social commentary. Here are key features and examples of verbal irony:

Features of Verbal Irony:

- Saying the Opposite: Verbal irony involves saying something that is

contrary to what one really means.
- Intentional Contrast: The speaker intentionally creates a contrast between
the stated words and the intended meaning.
- Audience Awareness: The effectiveness of verbal irony often depends on
the audience's ability to recognize the speaker's intended meaning.
- Context-Dependent: The interpretation of verbal irony may rely on the
context in which it is used.

An example of verbal irony is saying it is a nice day when it is actually raining

heavily. (Michael Szenberg et al.)
Speech Act
J.L. Austin's Speech Act Theory is a branch of linguistic philosophy that examines
the performative aspects of language and focuses on the ways in which utterances
can be considered as actions rather than just carriers of information. Austin's work
laid the foundation for this theory, and later, John Searle expanded on and
developed it further.

Austin introduced the concept of "speech acts," categorizing utterances into three
main types:

- Locutionary Acts: The act of producing sounds, words, or phrases and

their literal meanings.
- Illocutionary Acts: The intended communicative force or function behind
an utterance. This includes acts like asserting, questioning, commanding,
and more.
- Perlocutionary Acts: The effects or consequences of speech acts on the
listener or the audience. It considers the impact or influence of the
utterance.

Speech act theory provides a valuable framework for understanding the

performative aspect of language and the diverse ways in which language is used to
accomplish actions, influence others, and shape social interactions. It is especially
relevant in pragmatics, the study of language in use, where the focus is on how
language functions in real communicative situations.

Illocutionary Act
According to Rao Da et al. Irony can be analyzed using Austin Searle's speech act
theory, revealing character traits from the perspective of illocutionary and per-
locutionary acts. Illocutionary acts, in the field of linguistics and philosophy of
language, refer to the speaker's intention or purpose in making a statement.
Austin's four illocutionary types (exercive, commissive, verdictive, and
behabitive) are analyzed as types of 'conventional' effects on interactional
relations, with potential for dynamic uses.( M. Sbisà et al.). Irony can be analyzed
through illocutionary acts by considering its relationship with rules for
illocutionary acts and examining its illocutionary points and perlocutionary
effects. (Tu Jing et al.)

- Assertives:
Definition: The speaker asserts a proposition to be true. An assertive
illocutionary act is a type of speech act in which the speaker makes a
statement, expresses a belief, or conveys information. The primary
intention of an assertive utterance is to provide an account of reality, share
knowledge, or communicate a proposition. Assertive illocutionary acts are
a fundamental category within speech act theory, a linguistic framework
that analyzes the performative functions of utterances.
Example: "I believe the cat is on the mat."
Illocutionary Force: Assertion or stating a fact.
- Directives:
Definition: The speaker attempts to get the listener to do something.
Directive illocutionary acts are a category of speech acts in which the
speaker seeks to influence or prompt the listener to perform a certain
action. Unlike assertive illocutionary acts, which involve making
statements or conveying information, directive acts are characterized by
the speaker's intention to get the listener to do something. This category is
a fundamental aspect of speech act theory, a linguistic framework that
explores the performative functions of utterances.
Example: "Please close the door."
Illocutionary Force: Request, command, advice, suggestion, or permission.
- Commissives:
Definition: The speaker commits to a future course of action.
Commissives are a category of illocutionary acts within speech act theory
that involve the speaker committing to a future course of action or
expressing an intention to perform a certain act. Commissive illocutionary
acts go beyond describing or influencing present or future states; they
entail a commitment or promise on the part of the speaker. This linguistic
 category plays a significant role in interpersonal communication, shaping
social interactions and relationships.
Example: "I promise to help you with your homework."
Illocutionary Force: Commitment, promise, vow, or threat.
- Expressives:
Definition: The speaker expresses their emotional state or attitude.
Expressives are a category of illocutionary acts within speech act theory
that involve the speaker expressing their feelings, emotions, or attitudes.
These acts are centered around the speaker's subjective state rather than
making statements about the external world. Expressive illocutionary acts
are essential for conveying emotions, opinions, and personal reactions in
communication.
Example: "I apologize for my mistake."
Illocutionary Force: Apology, congratulations, condolences, or thanks.
- Declarations:
Definition: The utterance brings about a change in the external world by
the act of speaking. Declarations are a specific category of illocutionary
acts within speech act theory that involve the use of language to bring
about a change in the external world. Unlike other illocutionary acts such
as assertives, directives, commissives, and expressives, which primarily
involve describing, influencing, promising, or expressing feelings,
declarations are performative in the sense that the utterance itself brings
about a new state of affairs. Declarations are a powerful linguistic tool
with a direct impact on the world.
Example: "I now pronounce you husband and wife."
Illocutionary Force: Declaration, naming, christening, or resigning.
- Exercitives:
Definition: The speaker exercises a right or power. Exercitives are a
category of illocutionary acts within speech act theory that involve the
speaker attempting to influence the behavior of the listener by
encouraging, advising, urging, or discouraging a certain action. Exercitives
 are closely related to directives, as both involve attempts to shape the
future actions of the listener. However, exercitives tend to focus more on
encouraging or discouraging rather than explicitly commanding or
requesting.
Example: "I order you to leave."
Illocutionary Force: Command, decree, request, or suggestion.
- Representatives:
Definition: The speaker provides information or describes a state of
affairs. Representatives are a category of illocutionary acts within speech
act theory that involve the speaker making statements or assertions about
the world with the aim of conveying information or describing a state of
affairs. Representatives focus on the correspondence between the speaker's
utterance and the external reality, and they can be true or false based on
whether the information aligns with the actual state of affairs.
Example: "It is raining outside."
Illocutionary Force: Assertion or stating a fact.
- Interrogatives:
Definition: The speaker asks a question. Interrogatives are a category of
illocutionary acts within speech act theory that involve the speaker posing
questions to the listener. The primary function of interrogatives is to elicit
information or responses from the listener. Interrogatives are a crucial
aspect of communicative interaction, allowing individuals to seek
clarification, request information, or engage in dialogue.
Example: "Are you coming to the party?"
Illocutionary Force: Questioning or seeking information.
- Perfomative:
Definition: The speaker performs an action or commitment simply by
uttering certain words.
Example: "I promise to help you."
Illocutionary: directly involves the speaker in the act of making a
commitment.
Ironic speech acts can be analyzed by illocutionary principles, as they covertly
negate conditions and rules underlying non-ironic speech acts, creating multiple
layers of meaning. (D. Amante et al.). Analyzing irony through the lens of
illocutionary acts involves examining the speaker's intention, the context, and the
communicative goals associated with the ironic utterance.

- Identify the Utterance: Begin by identifying the specific utterance or

statement in question. Irony often involves saying something but meaning
the opposite.
- Determine Illocutionary Force: Consider the illocutionary force of the
utterance. What is the speaker trying to achieve with this statement? Is it
an assertion, directive, commissive, expressive, or another type?
- Consider Literal Meaning: Examine the literal meaning of the statement.
Irony typically involves a gap between the literal meaning of the words
and the intended meaning. This is where the contradiction or incongruity
lies.
- Contextual Analysis: Analyze the context in which the statement is made.
Context is crucial for understanding irony. Consider the speaker's tone,
facial expressions, and the overall situational context. Irony often relies on
shared knowledge or contextual cues.
- Perlocutionary Effects: Consider the potential effects on the listener
(perlocutionary effects). Irony can have various effects, such as humor,
surprise, or a critical perspective. Analyzing these effects can provide
insights into the speaker's communicative goals.

Perlucotionary Act
Perlocutionary acts, a key concept in speech act theory, delve into the impact that
speech acts have on the listener or the external world. Coined by J.L. Austin, these
acts go beyond the speaker's intentions (illocutionary acts) to examine the effects
that language can produce. Understanding perlocutionary acts is crucial for
comprehending the broader influence of communication beyond the act of
speaking itself. Perlocutionary acts are not merely about what a speaker does with
words but what they achieve through their words. The term "perlocution" comes
from the Latin "per" (through) and "locutio" (speaking), highlighting that these
acts occur through or as a result of speech. In essence, perlocutionary acts explore
the ways in which language can shape attitudes, beliefs, emotions, or behaviors in
the listener or the broader context.

Perlocutionary acts encompass a wide range of outcomes resulting from speech

acts, and these outcomes are not always under the direct control of the speaker.
The effectiveness of perlocutionary acts often depends on factors like the listener's
interpretation, emotional state, cultural background, and the broader social
context.

- Emotional Impact: One of the primary aspects of perlocutionary acts is

their ability to evoke emotions in the listener. For example, a speaker
offering condolences can aim to comfort and provide emotional support.
The emotional impact can vary widely, ranging from joy and laughter to
sadness or anger.
- Persuasion and Influence: Perlocutionary acts are inherently persuasive.
When a speaker aims to convince or influence the listener's beliefs or
actions, they are engaging in perlocutionary acts. Advertisements, political
speeches, and propaganda are rich with perlocutionary elements,
attempting to shape opinions and behaviors.
- Behavioral Change: Language has the power to induce action.
Perlocutionary acts can lead to changes in behavior, encouraging the
listener to do something or altering their course of action. Directives, such
as commands or requests, exemplify this aspect of perlocutionary acts.
- Formation of Beliefs: Speech acts contribute to the formation and
reinforcement of beliefs. When a speaker presents information or
arguments, they engage in perlocutionary acts that can influence what the
listener believes to be true or plausible.
 - Attitude Formation: Perlocutionary acts play a pivotal role in shaping
attitudes. Expressives, such as compliments or apologies, can mold the
listener's attitudes toward the speaker or the subject matter.
- Social Impact: Beyond the individual listener, perlocutionary acts extend
to societal impact. Speech acts in public discourse, literature, or media can
shape collective attitudes, values, and even contribute to social change.

Examples of Perlocutionary Acts

To illustrate the concept further, consider the following examples:

1. Example 1 - Persuasion:
A political speech aims to persuade voters to support a particular
candidate. The perlocutionary act here is the potential influence on voters'
opinions and voting behavior.
2. Example 2 - Emotional Impact:
A storyteller narrates a touching tale to elicit empathy and sadness from
the audience. The perlocutionary act is the emotional response generated
in the listeners.
3. Example 3 - Behavioral Change:
A parent instructs a child to clean their room. The perlocutionary act is the
potential change in the child's behavior, prompting them to tidy up their
living space.

Irony in psychoanalysis can be analyzed through perlucotionary by examining

verbal irony in patients' discourse, situational irony in psychoanalysis, and
understanding ironic stances and understandings in the analyst's role. (M. H. Stein
et al.)
 CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY RESEARCH

This is the third chapter of the proposal. This chapter is used as a methodology of
research of the proposal. The content of this chapter is: research methods, cdata
collection process, data collection procedure and data analysis procedure.

Research Methods
This study uses a qualitative method, the qualitative method is very suitable for
this study. Qualitative research method is likely the most suitable because
qualitative methods allow for in-depth exploration, interpretation, and
understanding of complex phenomena, such as the nuances of irony in film
dialogues. Enhancing qualitative analysis involves rigorous data collection,
researcher credibility, and evaluation user beliefs, with a focus on matching
methods to empirical questions and issues. (M. Patton et al.). Conducting
thorough and systematic data collection is crucial. This involves selecting
appropriate data sources, ensuring a representative sample, and using rigorous
methods to gather comprehensive information related to the research question.
The aim is to collect data that provides rich and meaningful insights into the
phenomenon under investigation.
Moleong (2017) asserts that qualitative methods are frequently employed for
analyzing data without resorting to statistical analysis or data interpretation
through statistical means. According to Moleong, the primary goal of qualitative
methods is to comprehend the research subject, perspectives, motivations, and
phenomena inherent in actions. Qualitative studies, as defined by Moleong,
involve an investigative process aimed at understanding social or human
problems.

Data Collection
Data collection in qualitative research is a systematic process of gathering
information to explore, understand, and interpret a phenomenon of interest. The
nature of qualitative research often involves rich, contextually embedded data, and
the methods employed for data collection are flexible, allowing for in-depth
exploration.

1. Define Research Objectives: Clearly articulate the specific objectives of the

study, outlining the aspects of irony to be explored within the framework of
Speech Act Theory.

2. Selecting the Corpus: Choose key scenes or dialogues from the film that are
likely to contain instances of verbal communication rich in speech acts. Consider
scenes that involve crucial character interactions, pivotal plot points, or thematic
developments.

3. Transcription: Transcribe the selected portions of the film's dialogue

systematically. Ensure precision in capturing not only the spoken words but also
the tonal nuances, pauses, and contextual cues.

4. Identify Speech Acts: Apply Speech Act Theory to categorize different types of
speech acts within the transcribed dialogues. Distinguish between locutionary
acts, illocutionary acts, and perlocutionary acts.

5. Identify Instances of Irony: Focus on identifying instances of irony within the

illocutionary acts. Look for cases where the intended meaning deviates from the
literal meaning, showcasing elements of verbal irony.
Data Analysis
The data analysis for a study on irony in the film "Maleficent" from the
perspective of Speech Act Theory involves a comprehensive examination of both
quantitative and qualitative aspects. Initially, a quantitative analysis is conducted
to determine the frequency of instances of irony within the transcribed dialogues.
This includes categorizing different types of irony, such as verbal or situational,
and identifying patterns in their distribution across characters or scenes.
Simultaneously, a qualitative analysis is undertaken, delving into the contextual
details of each instance of irony. This involves exploring the illocutionary force
behind each ironic statement, analyzing its impact on the narrative, and
considering tonal nuances that contribute to the interpretation of irony. Through a
synthesis of quantitative metrics and nuanced qualitative insights, the analysis
aims to provide a holistic understanding of how irony functions within the
linguistic framework of the film, shedding light on its implications for character
development, plot progression, and thematic coherence. The ultimate goal is to
contribute to a deeper comprehension of the use of irony in "Maleficent" through
the lens of Speech Act Theory.

In a qualitative analysis of irony in the film "Maleficent" from the perspective of

Speech Act Theory, the focus shifts toward a nuanced exploration of contextual
details, illocutionary forces, and tonal nuances surrounding each instance of irony.
This qualitative approach aims to delve into the depth of meaning, understanding
the subtleties and implications of irony in shaping character development, plot
progression within the film.

1. Contextual Analysis:

The qualitative analysis begins by examining the broader contextual details of

each ironic statement. This involves considering the characters involved, the
setting, and the overall narrative arc. Understanding the context in which irony
occurs is crucial for interpreting its intended meaning and impact on the story.

2. Illocutionary Force Examination:

A central focus of the qualitative analysis is the exploration of the illocutionary
force behind each instance of irony. This involves deciphering the speaker's
intentions, the social acts being performed, and the communicative goals
embedded in the ironic statements. For example, if Maleficent employs irony to
criticize or mock another character, understanding the illocutionary force provides
insights into her motives and the dynamics of her relationships.

3. Impact on Narrative:

Qualitative analysis delves into the narrative impact of irony. It explores how
ironic statements contribute to character development by shaping perceptions,
motivations, and relationships. Additionally, the analysis considers how irony
influences plot progression, potentially introducing tension, conflict, or resolution.
By closely examining the narrative consequences, the researcher gains a deeper
understanding of the role irony plays in advancing the storyline.

Dialogue Character(s) Involved Contextual

Significance

Under the guise of Maleficent and Stefan Highlights the betrayal

mercy, when and cruelty of Stefan,
Maleficent curses setting the stage for
Aurora, she stated that Maleficent's
"The princess can only transformation and
be awakened by a true motivation for
love's kiss." revenge. The
situational irony lies
in Maleficent's past
freedom and power
compared to her
current state.
Verbal Irony Illocutionary Act Perlocutionary Act
the words used by performative utterance, The perlocutionary
Maleficent, such as where the act of speaking effect is the impact on
"true love's kiss," brings the curse into the characters and the
sound like a cliché existence. In this case, unfolding of the
expression in fairy Maleficent's words have narrative. In this case,
tales and love stories, the power to shape it serves to create
the actual intention Aurora's destiny, making dramatic irony as the
behind them is filled it a significant dissonance between
with irony. Maleficent, illocutionary act in the the apparent fairy tale
as the actor in this context of the story. promise and the
scenario, harbors underlying threat.
feelings of hatred and
resentment towards
Stefan, Aurora's father.
Therefore, when she
creates the condition
for "true love's kiss," it
is, in fact, used as a
tool to express hatred
rather than serving as a
traditional saving
element.
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