Abstract:Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which is confined mainly to extreme views in political power from a critical perspective, has been frequently quoted and applied in the previous research on political speech. As the positive effect is highlighted more than ever, positive discourse analysis (PDA), which explores a more active approach of Appraisal Theory, is gaining momentum in the linguistic analysis.
This thesis conducts both quantitative and qualitative analysis of Hillary’s endorsement speech within the theoretical framework of PDA. It attempts to probe into the underlying implication from three aspects—Attitude, Engagement and Graduation. It’s concluded upon research findings that positive dialogue is a big part of Hillary’s strategy in constructing long-term cooperative relationship with her former opponents and winning the public support.
Although PDA is not complete and profound, this thesis aims to open a new perspective for political speech analysis and points out that PDA can make up for the drawbacks of the contents of CDA.
Key words: CDA; PDA; Appraisal Theory; Hillary’s endorsement speech
摘要:批评话语分析针对政治权力从批判的角度出发，大部分局限在偏激的视角，并且常常被引用和应用在政治演说中。因为积极话语分析在评价理论中从更积极的角度去解决问题，积极作用显得越发重要，所以在话语分析中取得更大的势头。
本文采用定量和定性分析方法，以积极话语分析为理论框架对希拉里的退选演讲进行分析。尝试从态度、介入和差别三个子系统中探寻其内涵。从研究成果中可以看出积极话语在希拉里与前对手构建长期合作关系的策略和赢取公众的支持中占很大部分。
积极话语分析仍然处于探索阶段，本文旨在开启政治演说分析的一个新视角，为批评话语分析研究添砖加瓦。
关键词：批评话语分析；积极话语分析；评价理论；希拉里退选演说
