Abstract

This thesis is an analysis of the dialogues in Big Bang Theory. The show has attracted a lot of attention since its broadcast. It has a unique language style and distinctive characters, and most humor effects are created by violating the cooperation principle. Many people can’t get the point due to the fast speed of speech and the play contains so much terminology in such different fields, as physics and biology. This thesis analyzes the dialogues from the perspective of pragmatics. This research is based on the speeches from seasons one to six, which will provide a better angle for us to appreciate and understand the play.

Key words: Big Bang Theory, the cooperative principle, analysis, dialogues, humor, effects

CONTENTS

中文摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction-1

2. The Scenario of Big Bang Theory-2

3. The Cooperative Principle of Paul Grice-2

3.1 Maximum of quantity-3

3.2 Maximum of quality -4

3.3 Maximum of relation-4

3.4 Maximum of manner-5

4. Analysis of the Dialogues in Big Bang Theory-6

4.1 The humor effects of violating the principle of quantity-6

4.2 The humor effects of violating the principle of quality-7

4.3 The humor effects of violating the principle of relation-8

4.4 The humor effects of violating the principle of manner-8

5. Conclusion-9

Works Cited-10