Context, Purpose & Audience in Text Analysis
Context
Context plays a pivotal role in shaping the meaning and impact of a text. It refers to the environment in which a text is created and received. In the analysis or creation of a feature article, various dimensions of context should be considered:
- Authorial Context: This encompasses the author's background, writing style, and previous works. Understanding the authorial context provides insights into the writer's perspectives and influences.
- Situational Context: Elements such as the date, place, and style of publication contribute to situational context. These factors influence the tone, language, and relevance of the text within a specific context.
- Broader Societal Context: Historical, social, cultural, or political factors that have shaped the text fall under broader societal context. Exploring these dimensions enhances the interpretation of the text within a larger societal framework.
Purpose
Purpose defines the intended outcome or goal behind the creation of a text. A text may be crafted to fulfill one or more of the following purposes, each shaping its form and content:
- Persuade: Convincing the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take specific actions.
- Advise: Offering guidance or recommendations on a particular subject or issue.
- Entertain: Providing enjoyment, amusement, or engaging content for the audience's pleasure.
- Inform: Conveying factual information or knowledge to enhance the audience's understanding.
- Comment: Expressing opinions or reflections on various topics or events.
- Analyse: Examining and breaking down a subject for deeper comprehension.
- Satirise: Employing humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock a subject.
- Protest: Expressing strong opposition or objection to a particular issue or situation.
- Parody: Imitating a style or work for comedic or satirical purposes.
- Reflect: Contemplating thoughts or experiences, often offering introspective insights.
Audience
The audience represents the group of readers or viewers that the creator aims to address. Identifying the target audience involves considering shared characteristics such as:
- Gender
- Age Group
- Ethnicity
- Location
- Relationship Status
- Income Level
- Occupation
- Hobbies or Interests
Understanding the audience allows creators to tailor their language, tone, and content to resonate effectively with the intended readers or viewers.
