Language as Identity: Exploring the Role of English in Shaping Personality and Selfhood

Abstract

Language functions as a powerful marker of identity, often shaping the way individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others. In multilingual societies, especially in postcolonial contexts like India, English has emerged as more than a medium of communication—it is a tool for social mobility, education, and personal empowerment. This paper explores how English language learning contributes to the development of personality and selfhood, drawing from socio-cultural theories of identity, education, and linguistics.

Keywords: English Teaching, Personality Development, Language, Selfhood, Identity.