A Functional Analysis of Superstructure and Deep Structure Mechanisms in Common Persian Proverbs

Proverbs are important cultural components which show the way and style of common thought in a society. They are often mediators and devices for language pressure and influence. The question is where the effectiveness and functional pressure of proverbs come from and how the internal and external mechanisms governing their structure work. Using the qualitative, analytical and functionalist method, it can be said that proverbs become common and influential when they direct the audience to a familiar story in the infrastructure through obvious dualities and contrasts in the superstructure. The easier the audience's mind is transferred from superficial signs to cultural and infrastructural significance of the stories, the more immediate and greater their influence will be on the audience. The story in the deep structure of proverbs can influence the listener like a pressure device by shaping the mental schema and help in cognitive development, recalling and quick understanding of the message. Narratives and cultural stories in the deep structure of proverbs act in the direction of persuasion. They shape acceptance by emphasizing on social constructionism and create an immediate impact on the audience by highlighting the originality of depiction and imposing pressure and theatrical obligation.