NARRATIVE POINT OF VIEW AND STYLE IN THE HUNGER GAMES: AN APPLICATION OF PAUL SIMPSON’S NARRATIVE STYLISTICS

Abstract

This research study's main aim is to find out the features of narrative stylistic theory in the novel The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collin. The purpose of this research is to examine the narrative stylistic features like textual medium, sociolinguistics code, characterization (events and action), point of view, textual structure, and intertextuality and how they influence the reader’s interpretation, contribute to the reader’s analysis of the text. This research utilizes qualitative textual analysis of the novel Hunger Game, adopting narrative stylistic framework of Paul Simpson (2004) to interpret and systematically identify these elements in the novel. Paul Simpson (2004) designed the key framework for narrative stylistics. This analysis uses the six fundamental narrative stylistic features to enhance understanding of the text. The narrative stylistic investigation helps readers understand Katniss’s personality, her struggles and surviving. Katniss’s survival struggles shaped her character and also influence the reader’s perception. Her problems, conflict with the capital, rebellion against authority, emotional confused regarding Peeta and efforts to stay emotionally and mentally strong throughout the novel are revealed by the use of narrative stylistic features in the novel The Hunger Games. Sociolinguistics codes and intertextuality reflect the real-world social hierarchies and oppression. Complex characterization subverts traditional hero archetypes. These findings help readers understand how narrative techniques shape characters perception and engagement. This study may be valuable for literary analysis, educational purposes and future research on storytelling in dystopian fiction.