New Women identity constructed in language learning narratives in early-twentieth-century China

Authors

  • Yuanyuan Liu Ludong University
  • Yifan Shen Minnan Normal University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/genl.31138

Keywords:

Language Learning, Gender Identity, New Women, Narrative Analysis

Abstract

Previous studies of Chinese learners' language learning and identity construction have overlooked the gender factor. This study investigates the language learning narratives of two Chinese 'New Women', the aim being to reveal the connection between their language learning and gender identity construction, where national identity is the prominent variable. The theoretical framework applied is Darvin and Norton's 'model of investment', and the narrative analysisrevealed there are intra-dimensional differences under the general label of New Women. The English learner displayed better strategic use of language in resisting disadvantaged positions and in constructing her 'ideal woman' identity. The analysis also revealed that language plays its role in generating differences through the soft and invisible power of ideology and shifting capital, both of which are embedded in the daily use of language.

Author Biographies

  • Yuanyuan Liu, Ludong University

    Yuanyuan Liu is a lecturer at school of foreign languages, Ludong University, People's Republic of China. She got her PhD at Beijing Foreign Studies University, and is now doing her post-doc research at Shanghai International Studies University. She does research in gender and language, and language learning and identity.

  • Yifan Shen, Minnan Normal University

    Yifan Shen is a lecturer at school of foreign languages, Minnan Normal University, People’s Republic of China. Her research field is sociolinguistics and second language acquisition.

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Published

2019-04-08

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Liu, Y., & Shen, Y. (2019). New Women identity constructed in language learning narratives in early-twentieth-century China. Gender and Language, 13(1), 48-71. https://doi.org/10.1558/genl.31138