Quaker Interpretation: The Role of Communication and Identity in the Production of Quaker Values

Author

Katalina I. Kastrong , '23

Date of Award

Spring 2023

Document Type

Thesis

Terms of Use

© 2023 Katalina I. Kastrong. This work is freely available courtesy of the author. It may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) license. For all other uses, please contact the copyright holder.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Linguistics Department, Sociology & Anthropology Department

First Advisor

Jia Hui Lee

Second Advisor

Jane Chandlee

Abstract

In this thesis, I examine the shift in Quaker language use over time, focusing on the formation of group identity, the accessibility of Quaker language, and legacy and silence in a history of racial discrimination. These aspects of Quaker practice are crucial in addressing concerns about inclusivity and justice work, providing the potential for greater metalinguistic intentionality. My research analyzes language's role in shaping such attitudes, beliefs, and action. I examine seventeenth century Quakers’ use of Quaker Plain Speech (QPS), observing that the progression towards modern Quaker language is uneven among these three areas of focus. I claim that these new uses of language need to be comprehensively studied and understood in order to encourage communal reflection in Quaker spaces.

Recommended Citation

Kastrong, Katalina I. , '23, "Quaker Interpretation: The Role of Communication and Identity in the Production of Quaker Values" (2023). Senior Theses, Projects, and Awards. 344.
https://works.swarthmore.edu/theses/344