European International Journal of Philological Sciences
85
https://eipublication.com/index.php/eijps
TYPE
Original Research
PAGE NO.
85-89
DOI
OPEN ACCESS
SUBMITED
28 February 2025
ACCEPTED
29 March 2025
PUBLISHED
30 April 2025
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue 04 2025
COPYRIGHT
© 2025 Original content from this work may be used under the terms
of the creative commons attributes 4.0 License.
Dialectical Tensions and
Symbolic Representations
of Phytonyms in Marcel
Pagnol’s “
Le Château De
Ma Mère”
Bobokalonov Odilshoh Ostonovich
Associate Professor (PhD), French Philology Department, Bukhara State
University, Uzbekistan
Qosimova Umeda Qurbon qizi
Student of French Philology Department, Bukhara State University,
Uzbekistan
Rahimova Markhabo Rahmon qizi
Student of French Philology Department, Bukhara State University,
Uzbekistan
Abstract
: This study
examines
the symbolic
representations of phytonyms (plant names) in Marcel
Pagnol’s autobiographical novel, Le Château de ma
mère, focusing on the dialectical tensions they emdiv.
Through a qualitative literary analysis, the research
identifies how Pagnol’s use of
plant symbolism reflects
contradictions
between
nature
and
culture,
permanence and transience, and personal memory
versus collective identity. The findings reveal that
phytonyms serve not merely as descriptive elements
but as profound symbols that encapsulate complex
human experiences, enriching the narrative’s thematic
depth. This analysis contributes to a deeper
understanding of how natural elements are intricately
woven into literature to reflect and shape personal and
collective narratives.
Keywords:
Phytonyms, symbolic representation,
dialectical tensions, Marcel Pagnol, Le Château de ma
mère, nature and culture, permanence and transience,
personal memory, collective identity.
Introduction:
Marcel Pagnol’s autobiographical novel
“Le Château de ma mère” offers a vivid portrayal of
his
childhood in early 20th-century Provence, where the
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natural landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping his
experiences and memories. Within this narrative,
phytonyms, the specific names of plants serve not
merely as botanical references but as rich symbols that
encapsulate the essence of Pagnol’s formative years.
These plant names evoke the sensory pleasures of the
countryside, symbolizing both the innocence of youth
and the inevitable passage of time.
This
study
aims
to
explore
the
symbolic
representati
ons of phytonyms in “Le Château de ma
mère”, focusing on the dialectical tensions they reveal
between nature and culture, permanence and
transience, and personal memory versus collective
identity. By analyzing how Pagnol intertwines plant
symbolism with his narrative, we can gain deeper
insights into the complex interplay between the
protagonist’s internal world and the external
environment. This approach not only enriches our
understanding of Pagnol’s literary techniques but also
sheds light on the broader human experience of
finding meaning in the natural world.
METHODOLOGY
This study employs a qualitative methodology rooted
in literary analysis to examine the symbolic
representations of phytonyms and the dialectical
tensions
the
y
emdiv
in
Marcel
Pagnol’s
autobiographical novel, “Le Château de ma mère”. The
analysis integrates formalist and thematic approaches,
focusing on the text’s language, structure, and
recurring themes.
The primary data source is the text of “Le Château de
ma mère”. Phytonyms are identified and cataloged,
noting their frequency, context, and narrative
significance. Supplementary data includes scholarly
articles and critical analyses related to Pagnol’s work
and the broader context of symbolic language in
literature.
The analysis consists of close reading and
interpretation of passages containing phytonyms,
examining their symbolic roles and the dialectical
tensions they reflect. This involves identifying
oppositional themes such as nature versus culture and
permanence versus transience, and exploring how
these tensions contribute to the narrative’s depth and
the protagonist’s development. The study also
considers the cultural and historical context of Pagnol’s
Provence to understand how regional flora contributes
to the symbolic framework.
As this research involves textual analysis of published
material, ethical considerations are minimal. Proper
attribution of all sources is ensured, and
interpretations
are
presented
objectively,
acknowledging potential biases.
By employing this methodology, the study aims to
provide a nuanced understanding of how Pagnol’s use
of phytonyms encapsulates complex dialectical
tensions, enriching the autobiographical narrative and
offering insights into the interplay between human
experience and the natural environment.
In “Le Château de ma mère”, Marcel Pagnol intricately
weaves the natural landscape of Provence into his
autobiographical narrative, utilizing plant names
(phytonyms) as potent symbols that reflect his
childhood experiences and the cultural milieu of the
time. This literature review examines existing research
on the symbolic representation of phytonyms in
literature and explores the concept of dialectical
tensions within Pagnol’s work.
Phytonyms frequently carry metaphorical and symbolic
meanings across various cultures and literary traditions
[18, 11-15]. Studies have shown that plant names often
emdiv cultural values, historical experiences, and
collective wisdom [5, 90-91]. For instance, research
comparing English and Uzbek phytonyms reveals that
both languages use plant names metaphorically in
literature, proverbs, and idioms to convey deeper
meanings. Similarly, an analysis of English and Romanian
idiomatic expressions containing phytonyms highlights
how these expressions encapsulate cultural symbolism
and shared human experiences [19]. These studies
underscore the role of phytonyms as linguistic tools that
bridge the natural world and human expression,
enriching literary texts with layers of meaning.
In Pagnol’s autobiographical series, particularly in “Le
Château de ma mère”, the Provençal countryside is
more than a mere backdrop; it becomes a dynamic
entity that interacts with the characters’ inner lives
[3,75]. This interaction creates dialectical tensions
between nature and culture, tradition and modernity,
and personal desires versus societal expectations. The
natural environment, replete with its flora, embodies a
timeless, unchanging realm that contrasts with the
evolving human experiences and societal changes
depicted in the narrative. Pagnol’s portrayal of his
family’s excursions through the Provençal landscape
reflects these tensions, as they navigate both physical
terrains and the complexities of their social
environment.
While specific scholarly analyses focusing solely on the
symbolic use of phytonyms in Pagnol’s work are limited,
the broader themes identified in the aforementioned
studies provide a framework for understanding how
Pagnol employs plant symbolism. The phytonyms in his
narrative serve as more than descriptive elements; they
encapsulate the essence of Provençal identity and the
protagonist’s emotional landscape. For example, the
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family’s interactions with the natural environment
during their weekend retreats highlight a yearning for
simplicity and a connection to the land, juxtaposed
against the encroaching pressures of urban life and
modernity.
The existing div of literature on phytonyms’ symbolic
representations and the exploration of dialectical
tensions in narrative structures offer valuable insights
into Marcel Pagnol’s use of plant symbolism in “Le
Château de ma mère”. By situating Pagnol’s work
within this scholarly context, we can better appreciate
how his nuanced use of phytonyms contributes to the
thematic depth and cultural resonance of his
autobiographical narrative.
RESULTS
The analysis of phytonyms in Marcel Pagnol’s “Le
Château de ma mère” reveals significant dialectical
tensions that enrich the narrative and deepen the
portrayal of the protagonist’s experiences. These
tensions manifest through the symbolic use of plant
names, reflecting contradictions between nature and
culture, permanence and transience, and personal
memory versus collective identity.
Pagnol’s detailed descriptions of the Provençal flora
highlight the interplay between the natural
environment and human influence [20]. For instance,
the protagonist’s journey along the canal, lined with
wild thym (thyme) and romarin (rosemary), juxtaposes
the untamed beauty of nature with the engineered
structure of the canal, symbolizing the coexistence and
conflict between natural landscapes and human-made
constructs. This reflects the broader dialectical tension
where nature represents authenticity and freedom,
while cultural interventions emdiv order and control.
The recurring mention of cyprès (cypress trees) serves
as a metaphor for enduring familial bonds and the
fleeting nature of childhood. Cypresses, often
associated with mourning and eternal life in Provençal
culture, stand tall and unchanging amidst the evolving
life of the protagonist. This contrast underscores the
tension between the desire for permanence in
relationships and the inevitable passage of time
leading to change and loss.
Phytonyms in the narrative also bridge personal
recollections and collective cultural identity. The
protagonist’s personal memories of fleurs d’amandier
(almond blossoms) are intertwined with regional
traditions celebrating the almond harvest. This duality
reflects the dialectical tension between individual
experiences and the shared practices of the
community, highlighting how personal identities are
shaped within the framework of collective cultural
narratives.
The use of phytonyms resonates with the cognitive
processes involved in memory and emotion. As
suggested in studies on linguistic symbolism, plant
names carry cultural and emotional connotations that
trigger specific cognitive responses. In Pagnol’s work,
the mention of specific plants evokes sensory memories
and emotions, facilitating a deeper connection between
the reader and the
protagonist’s experiences.
The strategic use of phytonyms in “Le Château de ma
mère” encapsulates complex dialectical tensions that
enhance the narrative’s depth. Through the symbolic
representation of plants, Pagnol effectively explores
contradictions inherent in human experience, such as
the interplay between nature and culture, the balance
between permanence and change, and the relationship
between personal memories and collective identity.
DISCUSSION
The analysis of phytonyms in Marcel Pagnol’s “L
e
Château de ma mère” reveals profound dialectical
tensions that enrich the narrative’s exploration of
human experience. These plant names serve as more
than mere descriptors of the Provençal landscape; they
emdiv complex interplays between nature and
culture, permanence and transience, and personal
memory versus collective identity [16].
Pagnol’s depiction of the Provençal flora underscores
the intricate relationship between the natural
environment and human influence. The protagonist’s
journey along the canal, bordered by wild thyme (thym)
and rosemary (romarin), juxtaposes the untamed
beauty of nature with human-engineered structures.
This interplay reflects a broader dialectical tension
where nature symbolizes authenticity and freedom,
while cultural interventions represent order and
control. Such representations align with Pagnol’s
broader themes, where the acute observation of social
rituals and the use of recurring symbols illuminate
provincial life.
The recurring mention of cypress trees (cyprès) serves
as a metaphor for enduring familial bonds amidst the
fleeting nature of childhood. In Provençal culture,
cypresses are often associated with mourning and
eternal life, standing as unchanging sentinels in the
evolving landscape of the protagonist’s you
th. This
contrast underscores the tension between the human
desire for permanence in relationships and the
inevitable passage of time leading to change and loss.
Pagnol’s narrative captures this bittersweet experience,
highlighting the universal challenge of reconciling
enduring attachments with life’s inherent transience.
Phytonyms
in the
narrative
bridge
personal
recollections and collective cultural identity. The
protagonist’s memories of almond blossoms (fleurs
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European International Journal of Philological Sciences
d’amandier) are intertwined with regional traditions
celebrating the almond harvest, reflecting the
dialectical tension between individual experiences and
communal practices. This interplay illustrates how
personal identities are shaped within the framework of
collective cultural narratives, emphasizing the role of
shared traditions in personal memory formation.
Pa
gnol’s work exemplifies this connection, portraying
the Provençal landscape as a repository of both
personal and communal histories.
The use of phytonyms resonates with cognitive
processes involved in memory and emotion. Plant
names carry cultural and emotional connotations that
trigger specific cognitive responses, evoking sensory
memories and emotions. In Pagnol’s work, the
mention of specific plants facilitates a deeper
connection between the reader and the protagonist’s
experiences, illustrating the power of language in
evoking the essence of a place and time. This aligns
with studies on linguistic symbolism, suggesting that
phytonyms serve as linguistic tools bridging the natural
world and human expression, enriching literary texts
with layers of meaning.
The symbolic representation of phytonyms in “Le
Château de ma mère” offers insights into the broader
field of literary studies. It demonstrates how natural
elements can be imbued with cultural and emotional
significance, contributing to thematic depth and
character development. This approach encourages a
reevaluation of the role of environmental elements in
literature, recognizing them as active components that
reflect and shape human experiences and societal
values.
Pagnol’s strategic use of phytonyms
encapsulates
complex dialectical tensions that enhance the
narrative’s
depth.
Through
the
symbolic
representation of plants, he effectively explores
contradictions inherent in human experience, such as
the interplay between nature and culture, the balance
between permanence and change, and the
relationship between personal memories and
collective identity. This analysis underscores the
significance of phytonyms as more than botanical
references, highlighting their role as vital symbols that
enrich the liter
ary tapestry of Pagnol’s work.
CONCLUSION
The exploration of phytonyms in Marcel Pagnol’s “Le
Château de ma mère” reveals their pivotal role in
enriching the narrative’s thematic depth. These plant
names serve not merely as descriptive elements but as
profound symbols that encapsulate the dialectical
tensions between nature and culture, permanence and
transience, and personal memory versus collective
identity.
Pagnol’s nuanced use of plant symbolism underscores
the intricate relationship between the pro
tagonist’s
internal experiences and the external environment of
Provence. The recurring references to specific flora,
such as cypress trees and almond blossoms, function as
metaphors that reflect the complexities of human
emotions and societal connections. This aligns with
broader literary practices where plants are employed to
symbolize abstract concepts and virtues, thereby
enhancing the narrative’s emotional resonance.
Furthermore, the study of phytonyms within this work
highlights the significance of plant names as cultural
artifacts that convey stories and traditions. This
perspective is supported by research indicating that folk
names of plants act as vehicles to convey various
messages about life experiences and philosophical
reflections within a community.
In conclusion, Pagnol’s deliberate incorporation of
phytonyms in “Le Château de ma mère” not only
enhances the authenticity of the setting but also serves
as a conduit for exploring complex human experiences.
This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of
how natural elements can be intricately woven into
literature to reflect and shape personal and collective
narratives.
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