LINGUAL MEANS OF REPRESENTATION OF THE PRECEDENT PHENOMENA IN THE STORY «THE ABC MURDERS» BY A. CHRISTIE

Abstract

The article deals with the lingual analysis of the precedent phenomena in a short story «The ABC Murders» written by A. Christie. Having considered different approaches to the definition of the precedent phenomenon the author singles out the main properties of that phenomenon. It has been found out that the layer of precedent names is represented by such lingual units as anthroponyms and their derivatives, toponyms and their derivatives, ergonomics and titles of literary works. Verbalization of barbarisms of French etymology and catch phrases constitute the layer of precedent expressions. As for the layer of precedent text it is actualized by quotations with authorship. In the context of the narration, the precedent units carry out a number of functions. Some of the precedent elements take part in the shape of the plot of the story by naming protagonists, place or time of the narration. In the explanatory function they bring additional information or arguments to the speech. Precedent phenomenon with positive connotation applied by the speaker to himself allows him to express self-criticism. In the expressive function it makes the speech sound more emphatic. Precedent phenomenon used in the emotive function indicates at the emotional state of the speaker. In the descriptive function it restores a vivid image of the object or subject. Characterizing function highlights a certain feature of the protagonist.