Metaphorical Language and Cognitive Structures in Shaping the Discourse of the IranâIsrael Conflict

Hafezi, Seyed Morteza; Mousavi Pa;zad, Seyed Morteza; Mozdkhah, Ehsan

doi:10.20241403/CRPS.2511.1101.2.9.2

Metaphorical Language and Cognitive Structures in Shaping the Discourse of the IranâIsrael Conflict

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

seyed morteza hafezi ¹

seyed morteza mousavi pa;zad ²

ehsan Mozdkhah ³

¹ Postdoctoral Researcher in Political Science at the University of Guilan

² Master’s Degree in Political Science, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran Central Branch, Tehran, Iran.

³ PhD Candidate of Political Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.

10.20241403/CRPS.2511.1101.2.9.2

Abstract

Metaphors have long been recognized as powerful tools that shape our understanding of the world. In the context of the Israel-Iran conflict, metaphors intricately guide perceptions and interpretations, defining the discursive frameworks of this confrontation. This study, grounded in Lakoff and Johnson’s theory of conceptual metaphor, examines the function of metaphor in this conflict from a cognitive linguistic perspective. Specifically, it focuses on the use of metaphorical language by Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, and Ayatollah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Employing Lakoff and Johnson’s cognitive approach, the research aims to identify and analyze the metaphors these political leaders deploy to frame the conflict in ways that align with their political interests and narratives. The objective is to achieve a deeper understanding of the role metaphors play in shaping discourse surrounding the Israel-Iran conflict. Through an analysis of the cognitive and linguistic strategies used by these political actors, this study seeks to uncover the fundamental mechanisms through which metaphors contribute to the construction, perpetuation, and even transformation of conflict narratives. The findings offer valuable insights into the influence of language on perception formation, identity construction, and the legitimization of political actions within this context. Analyzing the metaphorical patterns employed by key actors will reveal how cognitive frameworks are formed, reinforced, and potentially challenged. Ultimately, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the discursive and cognitive dynamics of this conflict.

Keywords

Conceptual Metaphor

Metaphorical Language

Cognitive Linguistics

Discourse Framing

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