Master’s Thesis at the University of Kerbala Discusses a Pragma-Stylistic Analysis of Incendiary Language in Selected Political Speeches

A master’s thesis at the College of Education for Humanities, University of Kerbala, titled “A Pragma-Stylistic Analysis of Flaming Language in Selected Political Speeches”, was presented by the student Baqir Mohammed Ali Mahdi Shallal.

The study aimed to conduct a pragma-stylistic analysis of the incendiary political speeches of U.S. President Donald Trump, who is considered one of the most prominent politicians worldwide in employing provocative language. The research sought to uncover the linguistic and rhetorical strategies used in these speeches, the underlying ideologies they convey, and how they are employed to influence audiences, particularly during the U.S. presidential elections of 2024.

The stylistic analysis of Trump’s speeches revealed his intensive use of figurative language, speech acts, and arousal strategies, which enhance his presence before audiences, assert his authority, and provoke reactions. It also showed his reliance on exaggeration and sarcasm, alongside metaphors and similes, within a communicative style characterized by boldness, clarity, and provocation.