The use of impoliteness for the construction of interpersonal relationships: the case of the “almighty” House M.D.
The use of impoliteness for the construction of interpersonal relationships: the case of the “almighty” House M.D.

Summary/Abstract: The present research paper describes the workings of impoliteness exemplified in film discourse, namely in the TV series called House M.D. The focus is placed on locating the source of impoliteness in the linguistic behavior of the main character in the series, the infamous Dr. House, as well as on pinpointing the impact of impoliteness on his interpersonal relationships. Qualitative analysis is performed on two transcripts of conversations of Dr. House with various types of people he encounters at his workplace. The source of impoliteness is located by applying the concepts of Spencer-Oatey’s (2008) rapport management framework. The aim of the paper is to demonstrate the use of impoliteness for the construction of interpersonal relationships. The study thus operates within the paradigm of interpersonal pragmatics. The paper shows that Dr. House purposefully deploys impoliteness to establish himself in a superior position in terms of power at his workplace in the interpersonal relationships in which he is by default in an institutionally subordinate position. The analysis demonstrates House’s use of impoliteness not only to construct his professional relationships, but also as an attempt to construct a personal relationship.

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