The Unified Image of the Soviet Woman in Wartime Newspaper Discourse Markers

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study the system of lexical markers, characteristic of female image formation in the Soviet media of the Great Patriotic War period. Critical discourse analysis method is applied to investigating the leading Soviet newspapers publications devoted to the role of women in the Great Patriotic War. In total over 300 publications issued during 1941–1943 were selected for analysis according to keywords and thematic relevance. The system of lexical markers, comprising the unified female image creation ways, is defined and analyzed. Ideology domination and militarization are noted to have been essential for unified image formation in the Soviet newspaper discourse of the Great Patriotic War period. The paper reveals the markers that reflect the dynamics of female image transformation: from a rear toiler replacing the man who had left for the front in the first period, to the soldier, the woman capable of taking the place of the fallen fighter in next war period. Classification and description of the markers are presented. The author points out, that the unified image is viewed as the 'image-function' deprived of characteristic female features, traditionally represented in journalistic texts. A conclusion is drawn upon designing the unified 'image-function': it was worked out only pursuing propaganda goals, with the main one – mobilization of women on fight against the enemy threatening the very existence of the state.