Description, Descriptor, and Descriptee in the Poem The Eagle: A Descriptology-Based Analysis

Document Type : Original Research

Author
ahmad ahmadi sheikhlar
Graduation from the Doctorate Program at Mazandaran University
10.48311/lcq.17.68.5
Abstract
This research aims to explore the role of description in Parviz Natel Khanlari's poem The Eagle using the framework of Descriptology. By critiquing previous perspectives on description and offering a fresh view on the nature of description in literature, this study seeks to answer key questions, such as the roles of the descriptor and descriptee, the distinction between the descriptor and the narrator, and the difference between the descriptee and the narrative audience. Additionally, it examines the impact of description on the style and success of a literary work. Employing a combination of analytical philosophy and Descriptology, alongside statistical data analysis, the poem The Eagle is meticulously analyzed. The findings reveal that description plays a crucial role in creating mental imagery, conveying concepts, and establishing a connection with the reader. The study also refines and expands the typology of description, investigates the relationship between narrative and descriptive elements, and evaluates the quantitative and qualitative aspects of descriptions within the text. The results demonstrate that Descriptology, with further development, can become a powerful tool for comprehensive and in-depth analysis of literary works. This research enhances the understanding of The Eagle and its complexities, offering valuable insights for literary critics, theorists, researchers, writers, and those involved in AI-based linguistic modeling.

Introduction

In literary research, description is often regarded as a tool for establishing context for events or portraying characters. Prominent writers and writing instructors emphasize its importance. However, the boundaries between description and related concepts continue to remain ambiguous. Descriptology, as a field of study, seeks to define and categorize various types of description within literary texts, providing a structured framework for analyzing texts from a descriptive perspective.

This study draws on analytical philosophy, which is prominent in academic departments across regions such as Britain, North America, Australia, and Scandinavia, to explore the nature of description. The poem The Eagle by Khanlari, considered one of the ten best contemporary poems by Shafiei Kadkani, is chosen for its rich descriptive elements and literary success.



Research Questions


What is description?
What are the types of descriptors and descriptees?
How is Khanlari’s The Eagle critiqued and evaluated from a Descriptology perspective, particularly through the lens of descriptor and descriptee?




Literature Review

Descriptology, initially developed in relation to the story of Rostam and Sohrab, has since been applied in various studies to critique and analyze literary texts. Previous research has explored description in historical novels, contemporary stories, and other texts, often relying on the theoretical frameworks provided by Descriptology.



Discussion

The study delves into the nature of description, distinguishing between its linguistic and literary definitions. In analytical philosophy, description is seen as a symbolic representation of reality, while in literature, it often serves to create vivid imagery and convey deeper meanings. The research identifies various types of descriptors and descriptees, categorizing them based on their roles within the narrative.

In The Eagle, the third-person narrator often serves as the descriptor, providing detailed descriptions of the eagle, its surroundings, and other characters. The poem’s rich descriptive language enhances its emotional and visual impact, creating a multi-layered narrative that engages the reader on multiple levels.



Conclusion

The study concludes that description is an integral element of language and literature, far from being a mere static or ornamental feature. Descriptology offers a new horizon for literary analysis, offering precise and insightful methods for critiquing and interpreting texts. The findings highlight the importance of hidden descriptions, which often carry deeper meanings and contribute to the text’s overall impact.

Keywords

Subjects

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Literary Criticism
Volume 17, Issue 68
Winter 2025
Pages 1-39