The Conceptual Metaphor of the Wolf in Arabic and English: A Comparative Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/jnll.v3i1.4239Keywords:
Comparative Analysis, Conceptual Metaphor Theory, WolfAbstract
This study examines the metaphorical representation of the wolf in Arabic and English, focusing on its depiction in religious texts, proverbs, idiomatic expressions, and literary works. The analysis uncovers shared and culturally specific meanings of the wolf metaphor by drawing on examples from the Quran, the Bible, and various literary and cultural sources. Using Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) and the Great Chain of Being (GCB) framework, this study explores universal themes—such as the wolf’s association with cunning, danger, and deceit—and highlights cultural divergences, including the emphasis on communal vigilance in Arabic traditions versus individuality and resilience in English narratives. This comparative analysis reveals how metaphors reflect cognitive universality while encoding distinct societal values, offering valuable insights into the interplay between language, culture, and cognition.
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