A Genre Study on American Presidential Victory Speech

DOI: 10.5176/2251-3566_L317.34

Authors: Shun Zhou and Xueai Zhao

Abstract: The present paper applies Generic Structural Potential theory (GSP), Create a Research Space model (CARS), and Systemic-Functional Grammar theory to make a genre study on American presidential victory speeches based on the victory speech of Barack Obama and Donald Trump. The research is conducted from two perspectives: macro and micro perspectives. In macro aspect, the generic structures of two speeches are investigated; and in micro aspect, the research would examine the linguistic features from three aspects: transitivity, mood, and modality systems. This research may help to extend the scope of the genre studies on political speeches and help audiences to improve their understanding and appreciation of American presidential victory speeches.

Keywords: genre; generic structure; transitivity; mood; modality; American presidential victory speeches