Paratextualuty specifics in modern English prose

the aim of the current research is revealing of the functional and generic specifics of paratext in modern English detective novel. By means of R. Galbraith’s, L. Clarke’s and S. Durrant’s prose analysis it has been found out that such elements of paratext as a heading and epigraphs not only perform introductive, informative and dialogizing functions, but also serve as a means of characterization (Cormoran Strike’s erudition, Owen Quine’s vindictiveness and Verity Baxter’s mental disorders). Paratext possesses multifunctionalty depending on the author’s creative intention. In R. Galbraith’s novels quotes from classical ancient Roman and ancient Greek works, those of Elizabethan drama and rock-band’s lyrics are used as epigraphs. In L. Clarke’s novel epigraphs have a metafictional character, as they are quotes of this very novel’s heroine. S. Durrant uses dictionary definitions and a list of items that were found by the main character as epigraphs. The study of paratext’s types and functions in modern literature by means of complex approach seems to be promising, as it will enable us to look from a different angle at the nature of fiction, to ananlyze the specificity of paratextual elements perception by readers.

paratext, paratextuality, heading, epigraph, R. Galbraith, L. Clarke, S. Durrant