Language and Power: A Critical Analysis of the Movie Brave

Abstract

The research aimed to highlight the relationship between language and power in the movie “Brave,” which was released on July 6, 2012. This animated movie seemed to be reminiscent of Scottish culture in the Middle Ages. The study adopted qualitative research using Norman Fairclough’s three-dimensional model (1989) as a research tool. The research analyzed the dialogues of the two main characters, highlighting the challenge, maintenance, and assertion of power through language. Each dialogue emphasized the use of language as a tool to convey power, authority, rebellion, and societal expectations within the context of the movie's storyline. The research highlighted an important point that language had emerged as a powerful tool for change and transformation in the movies and society. It also revealed a rich tapestry of discourse strategies that were present in the dialogues of characters to maintain their power. The research concluded that power was maintained through language, and the 3D model of Fairclough fulfilled the demand of the research by giving an insight into the layers of power, such as the obligation of authority, revolt against societal norms, or demand for individual autonomy.

Keywords: language, power dynamics, transformation, Authority, Rebellion, Societal expectations, Discourse strategies, Individual autonomy.