1.3 | Notions
Discursive Typologies
The term discourse refers to the use of language in a specific context. The social dimension of discourse exists even when someone believes they are speaking or writing solely for themselves.
1.3.1 | Notions
Major Types of Discourse
In a general discursive typology based on the speaker's intention, seven major types of discourse can be distinguished: 1) Narrative, 2) Poetic, 3) Descriptive, 4) Explanatory / Informative, 5) Argumentative, 6) Dialogic, 7) Injunctive / Prescriptive / Instructive / Exhortative.
1.3.2 | Notions
Discursive Genres
Mikhail Bakhtin rightly notes that people do not exchange isolated phrases or words in the strict linguistic sense, but rather communicate by means of utterances. Discursive genres are repertoires of forms that respond to the needs of a particular sphere of human practice. As the possibilities of human activity are inexhaustible, discursive genres are infinitely varied.
1.3.3 | Notions
Literary Genres and Subgenres
Within the broader category of discursive genres, literary genres are textual genres. They can be studied from a textual perspective (paying attention to structural mechanisms and to how different elements are woven together) or from a discursive perspective (paying attention to the way in which each genre circulates in the flow of an ever-ongoing process).