The conversational dimension in code-switching between Italian and dialect in Italy

This chapter deals with the following topics: a) the necessity to postulate an independent dimension for conversational structure, i.e. a third domain between grammar and the macro-sociolinguistic context; b) the possibility for code-switching to be viewed as a contextualization strategy, the main function of which is that of creating a contrast exploited by bilingual speakers to mark the constant chenge of footing occurring in natural speech, and in particular to carry out several conversational activities, thus contributing to the pragmatic interpretation of utterances in context; c) the fact that code-switching can but need not call into play the social and symbolic value of the codes in the repertoire. Empirical evidence is drawn from analysis of some conversational structures and functions which can be identified in code-switching betwen Italian and dialect in Catania (eastern Sicily). Attention is paid both to patterns more closely linked to the social context (section 3) and to others where the autonomy of the conversational dimension shows up more clearly (section 4).