In this essay, I propose a theoretical-methodological journey that permits to substantiate a possible reflection about the phenomenon of discursive genre grouping. Therefore, I undertake an analysis of the arguments of Marcuschi (2000) and Bakhtin ([1929] 2002) about the groups of genres. Although there are discrepancies between both proposals for conceiving a constellation of genres, it is possible to establish a consensual point between these researchers in that both highlight the tendencies of the genres to variations and transmutations. The effects of this analysis permit the conclusion that a study which will undertake the characterization of a genre constellation must be structured from three fundamental thematic axles: the sphere(s) of communication in which such genres adapt themselves; the tracks left during its process of formation and the communicative purposes attended by each genre inside the constellation.
genre constellation; sphere of communication; transmutation; communicative purpose
