Skrynnikova I.V. Constructing the Image of Russia Through Metaphorical Framing
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15688/lp.jvolsu.2021.1.6
Inna V. Skrynnikova
Candidate of Sciences (Philology), Associate Professor, Germanic and Romance Philology Department, Volgograd State University
Prosp. Universitetsky, 100, 400062 Volgograd, Russian Federation
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2390-7866
Abstract. The paper reveals the key role of metaphor as a discursive pragmatic mechanism for promoting a positive image of Russia and substantiates the effectiveness of metaphorical framing as a method of constructing the country's image, which is still controversial. The author has demonstrated the explanatory and manipulative effect of metaphorical framing in political and mass media communication. The study postulates that in framing of political events, the figurative language has both linguistic and conceptual content, and the metaphorical frame is a powerful tool for the formation of beliefs and ideologies. The author points out to the need to expand the metaphorical repertoire applied to construct the image of Russia, and possible ways to activate alternative interpretations of current socio-political events. Possible directions of metaphorical reframing of the country's image are outlined by fixing complex figurative frames in the minds of target audience and their impact on it. These may consist in rejecting the excessively militarized discourse around the country and focusing on its cultural heritage, academic achievements, willingness of and openness to enhanced international interaction. The paper concludes that the discursive construction of the affirmative Russian image within and outside the country can be achieved through employing a positively charged metaphorical national narrative, reframed to draw particular attention to the merits and gains of Russia.
Key words: image of Russia, national identity, conceptual metaphor, figurative (re)framing, narrative, speech impact, beliefs, ideology.
Citation. Skrynnikova I.V. Constructing the Image of Russia Through Metaphorical Framing. Logos et Praxis, 2021, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 49-57. DOI: https://doi.org/10.15688/lp.jvolsu.2021.1.6
Constructing the Image of Russia Through Metaphorical Framing by Skrynnikova I.V. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.