Gossip in Malta : a sociolinguistic perspective

Abstract

Gossip is a linguistic and cultural phenomenon encountered daily in modern life. However, rarely do we stop to question and study its underlying meanings and functions. Gossip has suffered from a bad reputation especially since the popular definition of gossip views it as casual tittle-tattle amongst intimate friends about the personal and private affairs of others. This research project aims at discovering and evaluating the myriad of ways in which gossip functions within a small village context in Malta. Moreover, it documents the beliefs and perceptions held by the Maltese people about this seemingly trivial human activity. The aim of the study in its totality, is to adopt a holistic approach whereby attitudes, cultural factors and conversation strategies are accounted for through the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods of research. The study analyzes linguistic and cultural elements that relate to gossip. Among the research questions are the following: What are the opinions of Maltese people about gossip? Is it trivial or has it acquired pejorative connotations? Is it gender specific? Does gossip reinforce shared cultural values and is it an effective means of social control'? Are there particular places or situations where gossip is more likely to occur? What are the sociolinguistic features of gossip? How does gossip differ from other communicative events?