Force and emotion

Using the schemas of force dynamics to examine how the emotions are conceptualized in natural language, this essay conducts detailed analysis of the relationship between the metaphors of cause as force, and force (qua opponent) as a source domain of emotions. The author’s main thesis is that the emotions provide the best representation of force dynamics in the space of conceptualization, for the metaphors relative to them always display a tendency towards inaction, which corresponds to the rational self (Agonist), and an entity exerting force (Antagonist), which is the cause of emotions.

In this respect Kövecses essay links closely with Albertazzi’s (and its development of Talmy’s theory of force dynamics) and Wildgen’s (generic space as the space of force). It also exemplifies the construal structures described by Langacker. It is, in particular, the essay in the book that conducts closest examination of the key role performed by metaphor in the conceptualization expressed by natural language.