A Study Of The Interpersonal Meanings Of Modality Metaphor In Political Discourse

Modality metaphor is one of the key methods to express interpersonal meanings, and it entails the complex semantic meanings of the discourse. The previous studies of modality metaphors are mainly done from the pragmatic and functional approaches. However,studies of the interpersonal function of modality metaphors prove to be fragmentary. In addition, studies of modality metaphor are insufficient in political discourse.This thesis attempts to study the interpersonal meanings of modality metaphors in political discourse systematically. Applying theories of context, Du Bois’ theory of Stance Triangle, and Martin’s Appraisal Theory,the thesis proposes an integrated model for the analysis of interpersonal meanings of modality metaphors in political discourse. In this model, modality metaphors in political discourse position stance and display attitude.Meanwhile,a deductive approach is adopted in the present study in terms of methodology.Typical examples are analyzed to further illustrate the theoretical points. In this thesis,data are collected from president inaugural speeches, televised presidential debates, British parliamentary debates and political news, etc.Firstly, in the modal, modality metaphors in political discourse position stance. When a speaker uses modality metaphors, he aims to align with others and protect himself or herself. Therefore, positioning stance includes aligning with the others and protecting the self. Maximizing solidarity and minimizing power contribute to aligning with the others.Objectifying views, escaping responsibilities and denying euphemistically help protect the self.Secondly, in the model, modality metaphors in political discourse display attitude.Speakers present their subjective attitude when displaying their opinions. Modality metaphor is a vital device to convey speaker’s attitude and judgement. Thus, displaying attitude includes two parts: expressing affect and showing judgment. Modality metaphor in political discourse not only expresses affect including sincerity, confidence and irony, but also shows judgement: praise,condemnation, admiration and criticism.Language and society are co-constructed with each other. Language users choose different language strategies to achieve the communicative purpose. The present thesis not only enriches the study of political discourse, but also helps enhance people’s ability to understand and appreciate political discourse.