Abstract

It has been nearly 1,500 years since the time English originated. As an essential part of English, English Accents also come into various branches with the development of English. Object of this study are British Accents being used usually in Britain, the birthplace of English. British Accents refer to the English accents spoken in the United Kingdom or, more broadly, throughout the British Isles. 

Accent, with no doubt, is one of important factors contributing to characterization. Various social background, social class and personal experience result in various accents. This study, taking TV series Downton Abbey as an example, is going to discuss the possibility of characterization from the perspective of accents and provide reference for further study on accents in films.

This study is significantly meaningful both in theory and practice. Theoretically, it continues to complete the studies on Downton Abbey, especially in the aspect of accents of Downton Abbey. Practically, the action to uncover the hidden secrets of British accents could remind people to pay attention to their own English pronunciations and be more sensitive to them.

Keywords: Downton abbey; British accents; Mary Crawley; Character analysis; Received Pronunciation

Contents

Abstract

摘  要

1. Introduction-

1.1 Research Background-1

1.2 Objectives of the Study-2

1.3 Significance of the Study-2

2. Literature Review-3

2.1 Relevant Studies on Downton Abbey-3

2.2 Overview of British Accents-3

2.2.1Definition of British Accents-4

2.2.2 History of British Accents-5

2.2.3 Varieties of British Accents-10

3. British Accent of Mary Crawley-12

3.1 Character Analysis of Mary Crawley-12

3.1.1 Social Background-12

3.1.2 Social Class-12

3.2 Mary’s Accent in Downton Abbey-13

3.2.1 Original Accent Analysis-13

3.2.2 Desired Accent Analysis  -14

4. Conclusions-16