SYMBOLISTIC AND ASSOCIATIVE COMPONENT OF CONCEPTUAL SYSTEM OF “WINE”

Abstract

The article considers the symbolic and associative meaning of conceptual system of “wine” in French linguistic culture. The symbolic meaning of the concept WINE acquired verbal explication on the basis of archaic, mythological and religious worldviews. The sacred symbolism of wine forms the foundation for its further development and evolution within French linguistic community. In the mythological and religious worldviews, red wine has been pictured as blood – a liquid that embodies life. Religious use of wine by peoples of Antiquity stands on a single principle – ties that unite blood with grape juice, earth and all living beings. In the Christian tradition, wine appears as a biblical symbol of wisdom, truth, salvation, renewal, God, anger of the Lord. The sacred symbolism of wine as a transition from one state to another is reflected in French poetry of the nineteenth century, where the state of alcoholic intoxication is regarded as lucid moment – the transition to a different level of consciousness. In French linguistic culture wine is regarded a symbol of social unification, an indicator of high status or a symbol of patriotism. Due to the complex production technology and a limited number of people who were able to consume this beverage, from the outset wine served as an indicator of society social differentiation. Wine served as a measure of value and gratitude, the establishment of social relations and ties as well as reflected the status and origin of noble people. The article argues that the wine served as a symbol of French nation unification during difficult times, e.g. revolution or war. To unite people it was necessary to create a picture of a single nation and the general culture of wine consumption gave such an important image of "community". In French language world view wine is also represented as a drink that liberates courage, a symbol of great occasions, revolution, and the right to freedom.