Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory

The phenomenon known as metaphor is an extremely complex mental event - we cannot capture its complexity if we tie ourselves to existing standard views on metaphor. This book offers fresh insight into metaphor, updating an established theory, conceptual metaphor theory (CMT), in the context of current cognitive linguistic theory, and clarifying many of the issues that researchers in the study of metaphor have raised against conceptual metaphor theory. Starting with an introduction to CMT, the subsequent chapters set out propositions for Extended Conceptual Metaphor Theory, including a discussion on whether literal language exists at all, whether conceptual metaphors are both conceptual and contextual, and whether they are both offline and online. Providing a fresh take on a constantly developing field, this study will enrich the work of researchers in areas ranging from metaphorical cognition to literary studies.

1. A brief outline of 'standard' conceptual metaphor theory and some outstanding issues; 2. The abstract understood figuratively, the concrete understood literally, but the concrete understood figuratively?; 3. Direct or indirect emergence?; 4. Domain, schema, frame or space?; 5. Conceptual or contextual?; 6. Offline or online?; 7. The shape of an extended view of conceptual metaphor theory; 8. By way of conclusion: responses to the five questions.

Zoltán Kövecses is Emeritus Professor at Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest. He is an associate editor of Cognitive Linguistics and Metaphor and Symbol.