Functions Of Conceptual Metaphor In Western Political Discourse In Economic Crisis

The present thesis, adopting the qualitative research method, is designed to explore the functions of conceptual metaphor in political discourses. Our object of study is 6 American political discourses occurred under the social condition of economic crisis: 1 inaugural address of President Barack Obama (Jan. 20th, 2009) and the victory speech of President Barack Obama (Nov. 5th, 2008), 3 presidential debates of president Obama and McCain (Oct. 15th, 2008; Oct. 7th, 2008; Sep. 26th, 2008), and the inaugural address of President Franklin D. Roosevelt (Mar. 4th, 1933). These six political discourses all occurred under the social condition of economic crisis. After the identification of metaphors, conceptual metaphors are determined. Besides, the relationships between these conceptual metaphors are analyzed. Moreover, the functions of the conceptual metaphors in political discourses under the social condition of economic crisis are explored.The aim of this thesis is to uncover the functions of conceptual metaphor under the social condition of economic crisis by means of analyzing the political discourses in this special social context. It is hoped that the present study has illuminating effects for English teachers, learners, translators and researchers in terms of cultivating a good sensitivity for reading political articles.