A LINGUISTIC ANALYSIS OF PROTAGONISTS IN JOHN GRISHAM'S LEGAL THRILLERS: "A TIME TO KILL" AND "THE FIRM"

Abstract

This article presents a linguistic analysis of the protagonists in John Grisham's novels "A Time to Kill" and "The Firm." Through a qualitative examination of dialogue, narrative style, and rhetorical strategies, the study compares Jake Brigance and Mitch McDeere, highlighting how Grisham's linguistic choices shape their characters. The analysis reveals distinct differences in formality, tone, and speech patterns, reflecting the protagonists' professional roles and personal motivations. This exploration contributes to a deeper understanding of character development in legal thrillers and Grisham's narrative techniques, examining aspects such as legal fiction, character development, linguistic characterization, narrative style, dialogue analysis, and rhetorical strategies within the context of the legal thriller genre. By uncovering the linguistic portrayal of the protagonists and exploring themes of moral dilemmas, ethical conflicts, and professional identity, this study sheds light on the intricate relationship between language and identity in Grisham's works.