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Abstract

This dissertation investigates the strategic use of evaluative language in Donald Trump’s inaugural address. This study is guided by the analytical framework of Appraisal, from Systemic Functional Linguistics, which is concerned with the evaluative nature of language. The analytical approach was structured around a thematic analysis, specifically focusing on the Attitude system’s subcategories of Judgment and Appreciation. The main aim of this research is to investigate how Trump strategically employs attitudinal resources to construct his political persona and communicate his ideological stances in this genre of political discourse. The analysis revealed that Trump employed inscribed and invoked Appreciations and Judgments strategically to negatively evaluate previous administrations and positively evaluate his administration, himself and the anticipated future of America under his leadership. He differentiated himself from past leaders, aligned himself with ordinary Americans and portrayed himself as a capable and determined leader. The findings also revealed that Trump’s strategic use of attitudinal resources not only served to construct his image as a populist leader but also communicated a nationalist agenda that prioritises American interests. This dissertation highlights the potential of the Appraisal framework as a tool for dissecting the ways that political figures use evaluative language to achieve their rhetorical and political goals.

Course: English Language and Linguistics - BA - C2742S

Date Deposited: 2024-10-23

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14470.html