Abstract

This paper unravels the linguistic construction of the myth surrounding certain exquisite violins, specifically those made by Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesu. Under the assumption that the value has to a great degree been constructed through language, the analyses focused on how these violins were narrated during interviews when the violinists were asked to describe their violin. As analytical frameworks Roland Barthes' constructs presented in Myth Today and Writing Degree Zero were employed. The analyses show that the multiplicity of the signified include a destined partnership, a teacher who inspired the violinist, as well as a time machine that takes the violinist to past heroic composers and legendary violinists who engaged the particular instrument, among others. Consequently, the names Stradivari and Guarneri del Gesu signify not only the instruments but also various factors that produce mythical value.