In the previous class on March 20th, we discussed how and why the word "cunt" is so offensive. Although Andrea uses it throughout the novel, I am not surprised. Just as she is exposed to crude behavior, I expect her to utilize the crude language that matches up with these activities. This particular word does not offend me. I like the motto that, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." Words are just words. A word is only offensive if you let it be offensive. It is very easy for people to name call and assign crude words to people, but these name callers often do not have legitimate reasoning behind it. Without rational reasoning, the word "cunt" does not offend me. I do not understand why other words such as "nigger" or "faggot" are offensive because they are just words. Even though I never use this type of language, I believe that these words are only wrong or offensive if people let them be. We have the control and power to brush off the name calling, which could potentially end the usage of derogatory terms. If people were no longer offended by these words, these words may be eliminated from people's vocabulary since the main purpose of these words is to offend.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Words Should Not Be Offensive
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The words are offensive because they have hateful connotations, yes it would be nice if they were just words, but in our culture they are words that are only said to express hate, so they are very hurtful/offensive. If someone called you one of those words to your face in an angry voice you would probably be hurt by it.
ReplyDeleteYes, in the context of this book, I did not find the use of the word "cunt" offensive. However, words do have power because of their connotation. I listened to this presentation given by a lawyer who works with battered women. She said how the psychological manipulation employed by verbal bullying was much more impactful than the physical beatings. I looked at the use of "cunt" in the book from more of a passive reader perspective so it did not affect me. Yet if Dworkin's anger was directed toward me personally, I would definitely be distraught.I also was not upset over Dworkin's sacrilegious rant because I did not have an emotional investment in her argument. I can see how someone who has strong opinions on the matter would be upset.
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