From the Perspective of Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory: The Multilevel Structure of Conceptual Metaphors in Babylon Revisited

This study applies the Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory (ECMT) proposed by ZoltánKövecses to the analysis of metaphorical expressions in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Babylon Revisited. Utilizing the “Multilevel View of Conceptual Metaphor”, the study categorizes the metaphors found in Fitzgerald’s text into ontological and structural metaphors. The analysis reveals that Fitzgerald’s metaphors systematically materialize abstract concepts at the domain and frame levels, facilitating a clearer understanding through familiar cross-domain mappings. At the mental space (MS) level, the narrative synthesizes these mappings with context-specific meanings and conceptual frameworks, resulting in richly detailed and contextually appropriate metaphorical expressions that enhance the thematic depth of the story. By applying ECMT to Babylon Revisited, this paper demonstrates the theory’s utility in literary analysis, particularly in decoding the multilayered metaphorical language Fitzgerald employs to explore themes of redemption, loss, and societal change. The study not only advances our understanding of metaphor as a cognitive mechanism in literature, but also enriches the interpretation of Fitzgerald’s narrative techniques and thematic explorations.

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