Analysis of Metaphors in Donald Trump's Rally Speeches

Seminar paper from the year 2024 in the subject English Language and Literature Studies - Linguistics, University of Flensburg (Institut für Anglistik und Amerikanistik), course: Pragmatics, language: English, abstract: This paper aims to analyse the metaphors employed in Donald Trump's rally speeches as well as the question whether or not Trump deliberately makes use of said metaphors.
In modern politics, few people have captured public attention and stirred controversy quite like Donald Trump. His ascent to the presidency of the United States in 2016 and his continued influence on American politics have been marked by a distinctive (rhetorical) style, particularly evident in his rally speeches. These addresses are characterized by their informal tone, provocative content, and emotional appeal. Among the many factors of Trump's style, this paper focuses on a particularly effective aspect of his linguistic arsenal: the use of metaphors.
Metaphors are fundamental cognitive tools that shape our understanding of complex realities. In political discourse, they serve as powerful instruments for framing issues, influencing perceptions, and mobilising supporters. Trump's use of metaphors provides us with insights into both his political strategy and persuasive communication.