ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1353
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL BACKGROUND OF ENGLISH METAPHORS
Bekmurodova Zebiniso Erkinovna
Scientific leader.
Rahmonova Mehriniso Otabek qiz
Tashkent State University of International Financial Management Faculty of Foreign Language
and Literature A second-year student.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15280678
Abstract.
This study examines the historical and cultural background of English
metaphors, focusing on how different eras and cultural shifts have influenced metaphorical
language in English literature and communication. Metaphors, as fundamental elements of
human cognition and linguistic expression, reflect the collective experiences, beliefs, and
traditions of a society. By tracing the development of metaphors from ancient Anglo-Saxon times
through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and into modern English usage, the study reveals how
historical events, philosophical movements, and cultural transformations shaped the
metaphorical worldview of English speakers. The research emphasizes the role of religion,
mythology, exploration, industrialization, and globalization in enriching and diversifying
metaphorical expressions. Through the analysis of various literary works, speeches, and
everyday language, the study highlights how metaphors serve not only as artistic tools but also
as mirrors of historical consciousness and cultural identity. Special attention is given to the way
metaphors evolved alongside changes in social structures, technological advancements, and
political ideologies.
Keywords:
Metaphor, Historical background, Cultural background, Anglo-Saxon period,
Middle Ages, Renaissance, Modern English, Mythology.
ИСТОРИКО-КУЛЬТУРНЫЙ ПРЕДПОСЫЛКИ АНГЛИЙСКИХ МЕТАФОР
Аннотация.
В этом исследовании изучается исторический и культурный фон
английских метафор, уделяя особое внимание тому, как различные эпохи и культурные
сдвиги повлияли на метафорический язык в английской литературе и коммуникации.
Метафоры, как фундаментальные элементы человеческого познания и языкового
выражения, отражают коллективный опыт, верования и традиции общества.
Прослеживая развитие метафор от древних англосаксонских времен до Средних веков,
эпохи Возрождения и до современного английского использования, исследование
показывает, как исторические события, философские движения и культурные
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1354
трансформации сформировали метафорическое мировоззрение носителей английского
языка.
Исследование
подчеркивает
роль
религии,
мифологии,
исследований,
индустриализации и глобализации в обогащении и диверсификации метафорических
выражений. С помощью анализа различных литературных произведений, речей и
повседневного языка исследование подчеркивает, как метафоры служат не только
художественными инструментами, но и зеркалами исторического сознания и культурной
идентичности. Особое внимание уделяется тому, как метафоры развивались вместе с
изменениями в социальных структурах, технологическими достижениями и
политическими идеологиями.
Ключевые
слова:
Метафора,
Исторический
фон,
Культурный
фон,
англосаксонский период, Средние века, Возрождение, Современный английский язык,
Мифология.
Introduction
Metaphors are more than just decorative elements in language; they are deeply rooted
reflections of a society's history, culture, and worldview. In English, metaphorical expressions
have evolved over centuries, shaped by various historical events, cultural transformations, and
philosophical developments. From the early Anglo-Saxon era, where metaphors were heavily
influenced by nature and mythology, through the religious and chivalric themes of the Middle
Ages, and into the intellectual flourishing of the Renaissance, metaphors have mirrored the
shifting values and experiences of English-speaking communities. Understanding the historical
and cultural background of English metaphors provides valuable insight into how language
adapts to social change and preserves collective memory. It also highlights the way metaphors
bridge abstract ideas and everyday reality, helping individuals conceptualize and communicate
complex notions. By exploring the development of English metaphors through different
historical periods, we can better appreciate their role not only in literature but also in shaping
thought patterns and cultural identity across generations.
Literature review and method
Metaphor is a concept widely used in linguistics and literary studies, which is based on
the creation of a new meaning by transferring the properties of one object or phenomenon to
another object or phenomenon.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1355
The word metaphor itself is derived from the Greek word "metaphora", which means "to
transfer", "to transfer". Metaphor is not simply a comparison, but a means of establishing a new
connection between two things and revealing their essence.
Through metaphor, we get the opportunity to see and understand the world in a new way,
because it enriches our thinking and imagination. Metaphor makes speech figurative, impressive
and memorable, which increases its communicative value. The main characteristics of metaphor
include imagery, expressiveness, subjectivity and cognitive. Its imagery helps us perceive things
through visual, auditory or emotional images. Expressiveness enhances the emotional impact of
the metaphor and evokes different emotions in the reader.
Metaphors are distinguished by their diversity and can be classified according to various
criteria. Cognitive metaphors are one of the main mechanisms of human thinking, helping to
understand new concepts based on existing knowledge. Conceptual metaphors, on the other
hand, are aimed at expressing abstract concepts through concrete images (for example,
“argument is war”). Artistic metaphors serve as a means of enhancing imagery and
expressiveness used in literary works. In addition, metaphors differ in their structure (simple,
complex, extended) and field of application (social, political, religious). Each type has its own
characteristics and performs different functions in human thinking. This diversity of metaphors
shows how important a role they play in human life and culture.
Metaphor is an integral part of human thinking and has a significant impact on the way
we understand and perceive the world. We perceive many concepts, especially abstract ones,
through metaphors. Metaphor is not only a language tool, but also a way of thinking. It helps us
create new ideas, apply existing knowledge in new contexts, and simplify complex issues. In
culture, metaphor plays an important role in the formation of common concepts and values.
Metaphors reflect the symbols, customs, and traditions of a culture. They are passed
down from generation to generation, becoming part of the cultural heritage. Metaphor facilitates
mutual understanding between people and unites them in a common cultural space. Therefore, it
is important to study metaphor not only from the point of view of linguistics, but also from the
point of view of cultural studies. Metaphor plays an important role in literary texts as a means of
depiction. Metaphor gives literary works variety, depth, and emotionality. Authors can use
metaphors to describe the inner world of their characters, the essence of events, and the beauty of
the environment. Metaphors enrich the reader's imagination and help him or her understand the
work more deeply.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1356
Metaphors play an important role in revealing the ideological and artistic content of a
literary text and increase the impact of the work. Metaphors give a literary work its uniqueness
and originality. With their help, the author conveys his or her thoughts to the reader in an
impressive and memorable way. Therefore, metaphors should be studied with special attention in
literary studies.
Old English period
The Old English period (c. 450-1066) began with the migration of Germanic tribes to the
British Isles. During this period, the English language was close to Germanic languages, and oral
creativity was of great importance. The main examples of literature are epic poems such as
"Beowulf", in which themes of heroism, war and nature prevail. Old English metaphors were
simple and figurative, expressed through techniques such as kennings and alliteration. The main
themes of the metaphors were related to nature, war and heroism. For example, the word "sea"
was expressed in metaphors such as "swan road" or "whale home". The metaphors of this period
reflected the worldview and lifestyle of the ancient Germans, and laid the foundation for
metaphors of later periods. The metaphors of Old English literature are distinguished by their
simplicity and imagery.
Examples and Analysis:
-
From the epic poem “Beowulf”: Beowulf’s enemy Grendel is described as a “shadow
stalker.” This metaphor reveals Grendel’s secretive and fearsome character.
-
Kennings for the word “sea”: Metaphors such as “swan road,” “whale home,” and “whale
home” represent the grandeur and danger of the sea.
Middle English period
The Middle English period (c. 1066–1485) began with the Norman Conquest. During this
period, French was widely spoken in England as the language of the aristocracy and government.
Many French words were introduced into English, and the grammar of the language changed
significantly. Religion and chivalry dominated Middle English literature. The metaphors of this
period were more complex and elegant, and allegorical imagery was used more often. Chaucer's
"The Canterbury Tales" is a vivid example of the Middle English period, in which metaphors
were skillfully used to describe various characters and situations. Metaphors of the Middle
English period developed under the influence of French culture and enriched the lexical
composition of the English language. Religious and moral issues occupied a greater place in the
metaphors of this period.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1357
Discussion
The evolution of metaphors in the English language is closely intertwined with the
historical and cultural milestones of the English-speaking world. In the Anglo-Saxon period,
metaphors were primarily inspired by nature, daily life, and mythology, reflecting the people's
close connection to the natural environment and their belief systems. Expressions rooted in
battles, seafaring, and agricultural life were dominant, symbolizing survival, struggle, and human
interaction with nature. During the Middle Ages, religious influence became more pronounced,
leading to metaphors that revolved around faith, morality, and divine order. Metaphors related to
light and darkness, heaven and earth, and sin and redemption were prevalent, indicating the
society's focus on spiritual life and moral instruction.
The Renaissance era, marked by humanism and a renewed interest in classical
knowledge, introduced metaphors emphasizing reason, exploration, and the human experience.
Literary works of this period, such as those by Shakespeare, enriched English with a wide
range of complex and layered metaphors, many of which are still in use today. The Industrial
Revolution and the age of scientific advancement brought a shift toward metaphors based on
machinery, industry, and scientific progress. Concepts of growth, innovation, and mechanical
precision became common metaphorical themes, reflecting societal transformation. In the
modern and contemporary periods, globalization, technological developments, and social
movements have introduced new metaphorical frameworks, such as those based on networks,
digital spaces, and ecological awareness. These changes demonstrate how metaphors continue to
adapt, representing not only static cultural values but also dynamic social realities. Thus, the
history of English metaphors illustrates how deeply cultural and historical factors influence
linguistic creativity. Metaphors act as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving
cultural heritage while simultaneously accommodating new ideas and experiences.
Conclusion
The historical and cultural evolution of English metaphors reveals a profound connection
between language, thought, and societal development. Each historical period contributed distinct
metaphorical patterns that reflected the dominant worldviews, values, and experiences of its
time. From the natural and heroic imagery of the Anglo-Saxon period to the religious and feudal
metaphors of the Middle Ages, from the humanistic expressions of the Renaissance to the
industrial and technological metaphors of modern times, the English metaphorical system has
continuously adapted to reflect changing realities.
ISSN:
2181-3906
2025
International scientific journal
«MODERN SCIENCE АND RESEARCH»
VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 4 / UIF:8.2 / MODERNSCIENCE.UZ
1358
Moreover, metaphors have not only mirrored history but have also actively shaped
perceptions and conceptual frameworks within society. They serve as cognitive tools that help
individuals and communities understand complex phenomena, articulate abstract ideas, and
maintain cultural continuity. Understanding the historical and cultural background of English
metaphors thus offers deeper insight into the evolution of English-speaking societies and their
ways of interpreting the world.
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