Evaluating Literary Meaning: Appraisal and Argumentation in Dancing in the Dust

Abstract

This study evaluates literary meaning using appraisal theory and argumentation analysis in Kagiso Lesego Molope's novel, Dancing in the Dust (2002). Through qualitative analysis, it explores the interplay of appraisal resources and argumentation strategies. The research provides an overview of appraisal theory and argumentation analysis, highlighting their relevance in literary analysis. By closely examining the novel, it identifies diverse appraisal resources such as Affect, Judgment, and Appreciation, analysing their relation to themes, character development, and social commentary. The study also explores the author's argumentation strategies, including logical reasoning, evidence, and rhetorical devices. The findings deepen the understanding of how literary meaning is constructed through appraisal and argumentation, shedding light on artistic choices, character portrayals, and socio-cultural commentary. This research enhances appreciation of Molope's novel by revealing evaluative and persuasive techniques, emphasising their importance in literary analysis and their role in language, literature, and meaning construction.