Identity Construction Of Frank In House Of Cards:a CDA Perspective

Discourse performs indispensable functions in social communication.This thesis focuses on conversations and monologues from the hero,Frank,under different circumstances,in a hot American TV series,House of Cards,aiming to disclose the function of language in constructing social power relations:identities construction.In order to achieve this aim,this thesis conducts the research on the basis of Fairclough's three dimensional framework under the perspective of CDA,choosing materials in the first and second season of this series as the research target.According to SFL,the thesis investigates relative conversations and monologues from four aspects:vocabulary,sentence type,transitivity and modality,attempting to figure out the following three research questions:(1)How is Frank's identity constructed as a husband?(2)How is Frank's identity constructed as a congressman?(3)How is Frank's identity constructed as a lover?Analyses reveal that as a husband,Frank tends to use favorable vocabularies,statements,and interrogatives.These linguistic strategies help him create an image of an affectionate but selfish husband.As a congressman,Frank strategically use inspiring words in conversations with colleagues but unfavorable expressions when facing the camera.This inconsistency in language use with in-groups and out-groups represents Frank's political ambition and tact.As a lover,however,Frank turns to use more negative words and imperatives,representing an arrogant image.An overall discussion of Frank's identity construction in various discourses indicates that Frank is a sophisticated and resourceful figure who can shuttle between different discourses with different linguisticstrategies.It is sophistication and resourcefulness that win Frank popularity.Individualism is the major factor that contributes to this popularity.