VERBALIZATION OF LOCAL IDENTITY IN SPANISH CARNIVAL GENRES

Abstract

The article examines the linguopragmatic mechanisms involved in the creation of comic effect in Spanish-language media discourse, using the carnival genres of the city of Cádiz as a case study. Particular attention is paid to the pragmatic-discursive approach and to the speaker’s ability to switch to a non-serious mode of communication. The genre differentiation between chirigotas and comparsas is analyzed, highlighting their shared and distinctive features. It is emphasized that the concept of the type (tipo) functions not only as a visual attribute but also as the symbolic core of the performance, enabling authors to convey sharp socio-political criticism. Based on the analysis of performance texts by fifteen groups participating in the COAC competition, key markers and indicators of humor are identified, including puns, ironic phraseology, and specific slang. The role of local toponyms and ethnonyms in the verbalization of the identity of the inhabitants of Cádiz is also outlined. The study confirms that carnival songs function as a basis, fostering community solidarity through the collective recognition of familiar cultural codes.