Illocutionary Speech Acts and Gender Equality: A Pragmatic Analysis of the Drama Shirreer by OASE UNS Theater

Abstract

This research investigates illocutionary acts in the Arabic drama Shirreer by Teater OASE UNS using a descriptive qualitative method. The focus of this study is to describe the types of illocutionary acts based on the theories of J.L. Austin and Searle and to analyze their contribution to gender equality (SDG 5). Data were collected through note-taking techniques, with primary data sourced from the video of the Shirreer drama and secondary data from literature on gender equality, SDGs, and Arabic drama. The analysis shows that directive speech acts occurred 16 times, expressive 8 times, and commissive 2 times, reflecting the social dynamics and power relations between characters in the context of gender. This research reveals how language in drama reflects and shapes social constructs related to gender equality and provides valuable insights into the role of language in promoting social justice in line with SDG 5. These findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of language usage in different cultural contexts and advance studies on gender equality through a pragmatic approach.