Interpreting sarcasm in Malta : a sociolinguistic study

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the ways in which individuals interpret the use of sarcasm and verbal irony in the local context. In this study, the various social functions of sarcasm as well as the ways in which respondents perceive users of sarcasm are analysed and discussed in depth. Through the conducting of one hundred face-to-face interviews by means of questionnaires, the present researcher reveals a number of notions linked to sarcasm and age according to the age groups outlined throughout the chapters. The conclusion gathered from this study is that sarcasm and verbal irony are in essence, notions related to one's age; whereas younger respondents reacted in an entirely positive way to all relevant to sarcasm, older respondents tended to be more specific about whom they are sarcastic with. In addition, the results obtained from the questionnaires reveal that the most prominent social function of sarcasm is humour and such a function was prevalent through all four age groups therefore revealing that humour was the primary purpose of sarcasm for respondents regardless of age.