Rationale of the Study
The evolution of language has been closely tied to human societal development, leading to the emergence of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), a specialized branch of Discourse Analysis Unlike general Discourse Analysis, CDA perceives language as a social practice, emphasizing its role as a socially conditioned process (Norman Fairclough, 1989) This approach is particularly effective in analyzing political discourse, revealing the underlying power dynamics and ideologies present in authoritative communication Inspired by this perspective, I have chosen Norman Fairclough's framework for my MA thesis, focusing on "An analysis of President Barack Obama’s speech at President Nelson Mandela’s memorial" through the lens of CDA I find CDA to be a valuable analytical tool that clarifies concepts while uncovering the speaker's power and ideological stance.
Objectives of the Study
Basing on CDA approach and Norman Fairclough’s framework , the study aims at:
Analyzing the grammatical and lexical features, and the structures of the discourse
Analyzing Nelson Mandela's values presented in the discourse, and the purpose of the author making this speech through grammatical and lexical items, and the structures of the discourse
With the above objectives, the study deals with the following research questions:
What are Nelson Mandela's values presented in the discourse?
How are these values realized in terms of lexical and grammatical features, and structure of the discourse?
Scope of the Study
In his poignant speech at Nelson Mandela's memorial on December 10, 2013, held at the First National Bank Stadium in South Africa, President Barack Obama honored Mandela's legacy and urged the world to continue the fight against injustice.
This study emphasizes relevant salient features within a purely linguistic framework, intentionally avoiding an in-depth exploration of political science However, it acknowledges that the social-political context plays a crucial role in shaping the speaker's power and ideology.
Method of the Study
This paper adopts a methodology based on the insights of leading theorists in Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), including Fairclough and van Dijk It employs descriptive and analytical methods to explore how power and ideology are manifested in discourse Among the various CDA approaches examined, Norman Fairclough's framework is prioritized for its foundational contributions to the field.
Structure of the Study
This study is structured into three key sections: the Introduction outlines the rationale, aims, scope, and methods of the research; the Theoretical Background provides a foundational framework for the study; and a detailed Analysis delves into the description, interpretation, and explanation of the findings The study concludes with a summary and a list of References.
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Political Discourse and Speech
Discourse can be interpreted in two ways: a broader perspective, described by Teun A van Dijk as a communicative event involving social actors within a specific context, and a narrower perspective, which refers to the verbal aspect of communication, whether spoken or written According to Fairclough, discourse encompasses the entire process of social interaction, with a text being just one component of this process.
24) So the communicative event is equally important to the product of it
Teun A van Dijk describes political discourse as the communication produced by politicians and political institutions, including presidents, prime ministers, and members of government or parliament This discourse occurs at various levels—local, national, and international—and carries significant political functions and implications.
The political nature of discourse is determined by the context in which it occurs, making it essential to analyze not just the text or speech itself but also the surrounding circumstances to uncover its ideological implications.
Many linguists view political discourse as a vital form of political action, with Barber asserting that “political talk is not talk about the world; it is talk that makes and remakes the world” (1984: 177) Andrey G Kirillov from Samara State Teacher Training University emphasizes that political language serves as a purposeful social communicative act within politics (2003) Teun A van Dijk further acknowledges that political discourse is integral to various political processes, including governing, legislating, election campaigns, and party propaganda (1997: 21).
Political discourse often manifests through speech, where a representative from a political party addresses an audience on a specific topic This form of communication is characterized by a formal monologue, lacking the interactive features typical of spoken discourse The speaker articulates their ideas, opinions, and attitudes without expecting a response from the audience, who merely listen rather than engage In political speeches, the absence of direct interaction between the speaker and the audience highlights the distinct nature of this communication style.
Speeches are characterized by their formal, impersonal, and polite nature, resembling official documents like reports and academic writing (Langrová, 2010) They feature complex sentences, explicit linking words, subordination, and a preference for non-finite and verbless clauses, as well as the subjunctive mood and impersonal constructions (Dontcheva-Navratilova, cited by Langrová) Personal references are minimized, avoiding the first person singular in favor of formal subjects, collective nouns, abstract noun subjects, and passive voice (Dontcheva-Navratilova, cited by Langrová) Politeness is indicated through specific forms of address, social communication formulas, indirect speech acts, and the use of courteous phrases, although determining politeness requires understanding both linguistic and socio-cultural contexts.
Speeches primarily aim to guide the audience's perspective towards the future and motivate them to align with the speaker's intentions As noted by Dedaić, political speeches focus more on persuasion than on merely providing information or entertainment.
The new best speech in Tucson emphasizes the importance of engaging the audience not just through the content, but by evoking emotions, as highlighted by Joe Garecht A successful speech should resonate with listeners, encouraging them to both listen and embrace the message conveyed.
Critical Discourse Analysis
In his book "Critical Discourse Analysis" (1997), Norman Fairclough advocates for viewing discourse analysis as a research tactic rather than a mere analytical model He emphasizes that Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) examines the connections between discursive practices and social structures, offering an interpretative and explanatory approach that often incorporates historical perspectives on social action.
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) involves three key stages: the descriptive stage, which analyzes the basic formal properties of discourse; the interpretation stage, which views discourse as both a product of production and a resource for interpretation; and the explanation stage, which explores the relationships between interaction and social context In Fairclough’s "Language and Power" (1989), a unique approach to CDA is presented, emphasizing the transition from the descriptive "What" to the interpretative "How" and explanatory "Why."
1.2.3 CDA as the main approach for this study
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is frequently selected as the primary method for examining political discourse due to its focus on understanding language as a social practice, as highlighted by Juraj Horváth CDA emphasizes the interplay between language and social, cultural, and psychological frameworks, asserting that language cannot be divorced from its context It investigates the relationships between textual structures and their societal functions, taking into account the social context of communication Additionally, the interpretation of discourse is intricately linked to the audience, as their understanding of the text is shaped by their personal experiences and worldview.
My analysis is dependent on Norman Fairclough's assumptions in CDA, claiming that "ideologies reside in texts" and that "texts are open to diverse interpretations" (Fairclough, 1995).
Ideology
Ideology is defined by various linguists, including Fairclough (2001: 77), who describes it as a social policy influenced by social theory in a deliberate manner It encompasses the ideas that emerge from specific material interests.
According to Van Dijk (2000), social representations form the foundation of a group's shared beliefs, creating a mental framework that influences their understanding of society and its cognitive and social functions (1998) Ideology, as a system of beliefs, is articulated through various means, including symbols, rituals, discourse, and other cultural practices (1998).
Although ideology can be expressed both in the form and content of discourse, ideological meaning can only be reproduced through the interpretation and explanation of text
When individuals or groups firmly believe that their ideology provides the correct solutions to societal challenges, they often assume it will help them achieve their objectives By leveraging diverse forms of discourse, they can shape and influence public opinion to align with their beliefs Consequently, language plays a crucial role in persuasion and manipulation, serving as a key tool for domination and control.
Persuasion, as defined by Van Dijk (1998), is a process where listeners alter their opinions through discourse This shift in perspective enables the speaker to influence the listeners' future actions and societal engagement (2003).
According to American Journal of Sociology, "values may be seen as absolutes, as inherent in objects, as present within man, and as identical with his behavior" (Vol
In sociology, values are culturally defined standards that help us assess desirability, goodness, and beauty These values influence human actions and behaviors, shaping how individuals interact within society More broadly, they provide essential guidelines for social living and inform public policies.
RESEARCH METHOD
Collecting data
The analysis begins with the collection of data from President Barack Obama's speech at Nelson Mandela's memorial, categorizing words, phrases, clauses, and sentences Additionally, references from previous speeches and statements by various authors are incorporated This research aims to address specific questions related to the content and context of these speeches.
What are the grammatical and lexical items used in the text?
Is the vocabulary formal or informal?
What is special about vocabulary usage?
How many clauses/ sentences are there in the text?
What are the types of the clauses/ sentences?
What type of mode/ Is active or passive voice is prominent?
Which pronouns/nouns are commonly used?
When data have been collected and classified, they are put into the next step.
Analyzing data
Norman Fairclough framework is applied with three stages:
The article analyzes the formal properties of a speech by the US President regarding Nelson Mandela, focusing on vocabulary, grammar, and discourse value to reveal mainstream American political views It investigates lexical features, including experiential, relational, and expressive values, to illustrate Mandela's image and values By examining repeated words and phrases, the study identifies the audience and objectives of the speech, while also considering formal vocabulary and classification schemes to demonstrate its power and persuasiveness Grammatical features such as pronouns, voice, sentence mode, and modality are analyzed to uncover the speaker's attitude and the text's cohesion Additionally, transitivity and thematic structures are explored to clarify the speaker's power and ideology on a macro-structural level.
In the interpretation stage, context plays a crucial role, encompassing three key aspects: field, mode, and tenor, which significantly influence the linguistic features of the text Additionally, discourse interpretation takes into account both situational and intertextual contexts to understand the relationship between text and interaction, viewing the text as a product of a production process and as a resource for interpretation.
In the final stage of analysis, the focus is on the Discourse Process and Social Practice to explore the interplay between interaction and social context This stage aims to examine how social structures influence the production and interpretation of discourse, as well as the social effects that arise from these processes (Fairclough, 2001) By understanding this relationship, we can uncover the ways in which discourse is shaped by societal factors and the productive impacts it can have on those structures.
AN ANALYSIS OF BARACK OBAMA’S SPEECH AT NELSON MANDELA’S
Context of the chosen text
3.1.1 Nelson Mandela, life and death
The speech was given on December 10 th , 2014 at the Memorial of Nelson Mandela Mandela’s real name is Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (18 July 1918 – 5 December
2013) His father died when Nelson was nine and he was the first person in his family to attend school Mandela began his political career early in his young adulthood
In 1962, Nelson Mandela was arrested and spent 27 years in prison before his release in 1989 He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992 for his efforts to end apartheid, and in 1994, he became the first black president of South Africa.
When his administration ends in 1999, Nelson Mandela was dedicated to ending global poverty and helping to resolve wars and conflicts throughout Africa
In June 2004, at the age of 85, Mandela announced that he was "retiring from retirement" and began to suffer from illness He died at his home in Johannesburg on
5 December 2013 Despite his failing health, Mandela still participated in some international affairs
After suffering from a prolonged respiratory infection, Mandela died on 5 December
In December 2013, South Africa observed a national mourning period following the death of a prominent leader at the age of 95 The main memorial event took place at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on December 10, 2013, while a state funeral was held on December 15 in Qunu Notably, President Barack Obama was among approximately 90 foreign representatives who traveled to South Africa to honor the occasion.
In his autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," the essence of his life journey is encapsulated, with the title itself reflecting his unwavering pursuit of freedom This commitment to equality and harmony is echoed in Barack Obama's poignant words: "I’ve cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and [with] equal opportunities It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die."
Nelson Mandela, a prominent South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist, served as the country's first black president from 1994 to 1999, following its first fully democratic election His government focused on dismantling apartheid's legacy by addressing institutionalized racism, poverty, and inequality, while promoting racial reconciliation Mandela's vision aimed to overthrow oppressive governance and rebuild South Africa on the principles of democracy, freedom, and equality, inspiring those who face oppression and advocate for justice.
Textual Description and Analysis
Text analysis is essential in both discourse analysis and critical discourse analysis (CDA) Fairclough (1989) identifies three stages of CDA, with the first stage being description This stage focuses on examining lexical and grammatical features, including vocabulary, verb tenses, sentence modes, mood, modality, and transitivity processes, to uncover underlying power relations and ideologies Both qualitative and quantitative analyses are utilized, drawing data from selected speeches and relevant CDA literature.
In his book "Language and Power" (2001), Fairclough posits that the formal features of texts possess experiential, relational, expressive, or connective values, or a combination thereof This analysis will focus on vocabulary to encode these values: the experiential value pertains to content, knowledge, and beliefs; the relational value addresses social relationships conveyed through the text; the expressive value relates to subjects and social identities Additionally, the connective value, which is tied to grammatical aspects, will be explored in a dedicated section on Grammatical Analysis.
Experiential and expressive values are expressed in the vocabulary features of the text
The Image and Values of Nelson Mandela
In his speech, Barack Obama constructs a respectful and admiring portrayal of Nelson Mandela, highlighting the profound impact Mandela has had on the world This level of appreciation for an individual is unprecedented in Obama's administration.
Nelson Mandela is celebrated as one of the greatest liberators of the 20th century, embodying values that resonate deeply with the ideals of freedom and justice His legacy is highlighted through powerful language that underscores his commitment to equality and human rights.
His struggle (line 6) His triumph (line 6) your dignity (line 7) your freedom (line 7) your democracy (line 8)
Nelson Mandela is a prominent figure in the fight for freedom and democracy, dedicating his life to advocating for justice His impact extends beyond South Africa, inspiring billions globally with his unwavering commitment to human rights.
Also, in the rest of the speech, these types of relating and repetitive words including freedom, democracy,justice and phrases are assigned strategically
(line 12) moved a nation toward justice
(line 18, 19) he would give potent voice to the claims of the oppressed and the moral necessity of racial justice
(line 22) hold his country together
(line 23, 24) preserve freedom for future generations
The speaker effectively incorporates several of Mandela's quotes, which encapsulate his core beliefs and perspectives, thereby persuading the audience of the validity of Mandela's ideas and enhancing the overall impact of the speech.
(line 44, 45) “a desire to fight the system that imprisoned my people”
(line 51-53) “I’ve cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and (with) equal opportunities”
In the second place, the image of Nelson Mandela is drawn out as a person of tolerance A person of self-acceptance:
(line 32) He could be not only admit to imperfection
(line 29, 30) By sharing with us his doubts and his fears
Despite being viewed as a prominent figure of the century, he was not as strong and remarkable in his private life, often displaying a good sense of humor.
(line 34, 35) He was not a bust made of marble; he was a man of flesh and blood- a son and a husband, a father and a friend
He learned from those he didn’t agree with, as well as learned the language and the customs of his oppressor (line 63)
Mandela emphasized the significance of both action and ideas, highlighting the importance of reasoned arguments He encouraged us to engage with diverse perspectives, not just those that align with our own beliefs.
After achieving peace in his nation, Mandela understood that reconciliation involves confronting a painful past with inclusivity, generosity, and truth He chose to liberate not only the prisoners but also their captors.
In his speech, Obama emphasizes Mandela's core value of non-violence by referring to him as a liberator and frequently using the term "struggle" instead of "fight." This choice of language underscores that Mandela's actions were driven by a quest for liberation rather than conflict.
(line 45, 46) He shared with millions of black and colored South Africans
(line 77, 78) his recognition that we are all bound together
(line 79) there is a oneness to humanity
(line 79, 80) we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with others, and caring for those around us
In a concise speech, President Obama encapsulates the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, reflecting on his profound impact and expressing the values of mainstream America, which emphasize freedom, democracy, justice, and equality.
President Barack Hussein Obama II, born on August 4, 1961, is the 44th President of the United States and the first African-American to hold this esteemed position, having won two elections His identity is referenced multiple times throughout the speech, highlighting his significance in American history.
(line 95) It’s a question I ask myself, as a man and as a President
(line 126-130) Over 30 years ago, while still a student, I learned of Nelson
Nelson Mandela's legacy and the struggles in his beautiful homeland have inspired me deeply, awakening a sense of responsibility towards others and myself This inspiration has led me on an unexpected journey that has shaped who I am today Although I may never fully reach Madiba's exemplary standards, his influence motivates me to strive to be a better person.
On December 10, 2013, a poignant speech was delivered at the memorial for President Nelson Mandela, a revered leader and former president of South Africa The audience comprised primarily South Africans, but extended to people globally Both Mandela and the speaker share a commonality: they are black leaders dedicated to the pursuit of democracy.
In his speech, Obama begins by addressing Mandela's family, followed by the current president of South Africa, government officials, distinguished guests, and the South African people By referring to Mandela's wife by her real name and using the affectionate nickname "Mandiba" for Mandela, Obama fosters an intimate and warm atmosphere throughout his address.
Interpretation of the relationship between the productive and interpretative
According to Fairclough, situational context encompasses four key dimensions, which address essential questions: what is happening, who is participating, what relationships are at play, and how language functions within this context.
The political speech delivered at Nelson Mandela's memorial serves multiple purposes, addressing both the present audience and a global viewership Central to the speech is a heartfelt eulogy honoring Mandela's legacy as a liberator and leader Barack Obama expresses profound respect and mourning for Mandela on behalf of his nation, while aligning his government's ideology and actions with Mandela's values, which have garnered worldwide admiration Additionally, the speech aims to rally support from pacifists globally for his government's future initiatives, reinforcing a commitment to Mandela's principles.
The discourse involves a speaker, the President, who represents all Americans and embodies various social identities, including being a law degree holder, a writer, a former senator, and the first Black president of the United States The audience consists of diverse individuals, shaped by their education, profession, class, age, or race, who listen to or read the speech, regardless of their physical presence at the memorial In typical political speeches, direct interaction is absent, leading the speaker to impose his ideology on the audience, which can complicate the audience's understanding of the speaker's intended message.
The relationship between the issues at hand and the individuals involved is significant, as the speaker cannot engage directly with the audience Consequently, audience interpretations may vary widely due to their diverse backgrounds, including race, religion, nationality, social status, and ideological beliefs, leading to a multitude of perspectives on the situational context.
Language serves as a powerful instrument for conveying information and expressing ideology, while also exerting influence In his speech, Obama highlights Mandela's global significance and widespread support, which enhances the emotional resonance of his grief and admiration This connection underscores their shared humanity and fosters global cooperation and approval.
Intertextual context involves analyzing discourse through historical lenses, emphasizing its connection to a historical series According to Fairclough (2001), interpreting this context entails identifying the specific historical series to which the discourse belongs.
Barack Obama and Nelson Mandela met only once in Washington in 2005, yet Mandela's legacy profoundly influenced Obama since his student days in California As a leader of the anti-apartheid movement, Mandela's struggles for liberation inspired Obama throughout his life.
Over 30 years ago, while still a student, I learned of Nelson Mandela and the struggles taking place in this beautiful land, and it stirred something in me (line 126-
Obama's involvement in a protest against apartheid marked a significant moment in his early political journey The influence of South Africa's former president continues to resonate throughout Obama's career, shaping his path from inner-city Chicago to the White House.
In his heartfelt eulogy, President Obama honored Nelson Mandela, stating, "it is a singular honor to be with you today, to celebrate a life like no other." This profound acknowledgment reflects the deep admiration he held for Mandela, emphasizing the global impact of his legacy Obama expressed, “I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set,” highlighting the enduring influence Mandela had on countless lives Former President George Bush recognized him as “one of the great forces for freedom and equality of our time,” while Bill Clinton described Mandela as “a man of uncommon grace and compassion,” who exemplified the importance of forgiveness over bitterness The collective appreciation for Mandela underscores the American ideal of heroism and the profound respect for those who champion freedom and equality.
The speech highlights key themes of American values, emphasizing liberty and patriotism It addresses the motivations behind actions, with recurring discussions on justice, liberation, and democracy In a notable healthcare speech, the speaker affirmed, "We proved that we are still a people capable of doing big things and tackling our biggest challenges."
South Africa exemplifies the possibility of change, demonstrating that we can opt for a world characterized by shared hopes rather than our differences We have the power to choose a future marked by peace, justice, and opportunity instead of conflict In a speech to the Congressional Black Caucus, Obama reiterated this vision for unity and progress.
With unwavering determination, I will continue to advocate for job opportunities and equality, driven by the needs of our children and the families facing challenges today I refuse to dwell on self-pity or complaints; instead, I am committed to pressing forward for a better future.
“so we, too, must act on behalf of justice We, too, must act on behalf of peace.”
“The questions we face today how to promote equality and justice; how to uphold freedom and human rights; how to end conflict and sectarian war “
Let’s turn back further to President George Bush’s administration In a speech titled
In his address regarding the initial operations in Afghanistan, President Bush emphasized unwavering commitment to the mission, stating, "We will not waver; we will not tire; we will not falter, and we will not fail." This declaration underscores the determination to achieve lasting peace and freedom, reflecting confidence in the future success of the Afghan people on their path toward these ideals.
Presuppositions are crucial for interpreting context, as they allow speakers to effectively convey their ideologies to the audience For instance, the speaker's opening statement, “it is a singular honor to be with you today, to celebrate a life like no other,” presupposes the existence of a unique life, specifically that of Nelson Mandela This intriguing introduction prompts the audience to contemplate the reasons behind this uniqueness, its characteristics, and its significance.
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, a prominent South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist, dedicated his life to dismantling apartheid and addressing issues of racism, poverty, and inequality Beginning his political career at a young age, Mandela spent 27 years in prison, during which he emerged as a leader committed to racial reconciliation His relentless efforts earned him numerous accolades and recognition worldwide.
Explanation of the Discourse Process and Social Practice in the Discourse
As Fairclough and Wodak (1997: 271-80) defined, ‘discourse is a form of social action’ In the stage of explanation, discourse is viewed as a part of social process and social practice
In his book, Fairclough emphasizes that explanation relates to the interplay between interaction and social context, highlighting how social structures influence the production and interpretation of discourse, which in turn can sustain or alter these structures This critical stage illustrates the ways in which discourse is shaped by social dynamics, the manifestation of political phenomena within discourse, and the impactful effects that discourse has on societal structures.
This analysis will explore the ideological implications of Obama's speech, examining its role within broader social processes at both institutional and societal levels.
At the institutional level, a dynamic power relationship exists between the speaker and the audience, as demonstrated by Obama's speech He aims to assert his influence by utilizing creative language and promoting his optimistic vision for the future, while also encouraging the audience to embrace both Mandela’s ideals and his own This highlights the significant impact discourse can have in inspiring societal change The speech effectively strengthens the audience's trust in Obama's administration and seeks global approval and support.
The interplay between discourse and social structures is a reciprocal one, where social structures shape discourse while also being influenced by it, contributing to both social continuity and change This dynamic is exemplified in the relationship between President Obama as the speaker and his diverse audience, which includes individuals from South Africa, America, and beyond.
Recapitulation
This article outlines its rationale, aims, scope, and methods, followed by an analysis of speech through its microstructure, which includes vocabulary, grammatical features, transitivity, and thematization, to uncover the underlying power dynamics and ideologies present in the discourse Furthermore, it examines the connections between productive and interpretative processes, as well as the interplay between discourse and social practices.
In this ending part, I would like to summarize the findings during the study, which are clarified in the following table:
Table 12: Summary of the Findings
What is found? What is embedded?
- The speaker’s ideas about the Nelson Mandela, his life and his career
- The solemnity and the mournfulness expressed in the speech
Personal pronoun - A sense of respect and solidarity
- The wide use of active voice, emphasizing the subjects, mostly the main character of the speech
-Focus on giving information about
- The common use of modal auxiliaries
- Focus on evaluation of person and possibility of actions
- The use of reiteration on creating coherence of the text
A number of marked theme High percentage of unmarked theme Domination of topical theme
- Focus on the manner and time of actions
- The constant topic of the text being the eulogy of Mandela’s life and career
Background Problems Solutions Results Reasons and determination
The article aims to highlight the crimes committed by terrorists, justify the deployment of US armed forces for national security, and seek support and approval from nations around the globe.
- The central information is the memorial of Nelson Mandela
- The speaker is on behalf of the entire American and the audience from all over the world
What’s the role of language?
- Language is used to give information and convey the speaker’s ideology
Which historical series does the text belong to?
- Many presuppositions that the speaker’s ideology follows
- Speech acts are ways to express both power and ideology
Power relationship between the speaker and the audience
- The speech can strengthen the American’s trust in Obama’s administration
Relationship between discourse and social structures
- The discourse helps indicate the sense of respect and solidarity
Conclusion
This study employs Fairclough's (2001) three-stage framework of Description, Interpretation, and Explanation to analyze discourse Its aim is to investigate the underlying power dynamics, ideologies, and social relationships present within the discourse.
Nelson Mandela's speech effectively embodies the values of freedom, non-violence, and tolerance, mirroring the ideals of the American people The strategic use of lexical and grammatical features in the speech highlights these principles, allowing the author to convey a powerful ideology and influence the audience effectively.
Limitations
The study acknowledges certain limitations, including the possibility that some research findings may lack completeness and accuracy Additionally, the author's ideologies may not be as clearly articulated as initially anticipated.
Recommendations and implications
This study serves as a valuable resource for future research on Obama's political speeches, emphasizing the significance of analyzing the author's power and ideology To address the identified limitations, researchers are encouraged to break down their research questions into smaller, more manageable components, allowing for a focused examination of specific aspects of the text rather than attempting to cover the entirety at once.
This study highlights the significant role of teachers in language education, emphasizing that their teaching styles and attitudes can greatly influence students' development The overall quality of education, alongside teachers' ability to motivate and encourage, plays a crucial part in shaping students' personalities and knowledge Consequently, effective teaching can lead to positive outcomes for students' future growth.
Teachers must reevaluate their role in the teaching and learning process, shifting from being the dominant authority in the classroom to becoming guides and facilitators This evolving perspective emphasizes the importance of reducing their power over students, which can significantly enhance the overall educational experience By fostering a more collaborative environment, teachers can better support student engagement and learning outcomes.
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A TRANSCRIPT OF BARACK OBAMA’S SPEECH
Thank you Thank you so much Thank you To GraỗaMachel and the Mandela
1 family; to President Zuma and members of the government; to heads of states and
2 government, past and present; distinguished guests it is a singular honor to be
3 with you today, to celebrate a life like no other To the people of South Africa
4 people of every race and walk of life the world thanks you for sharing Nelson
Mandela with us His struggle was your struggle His triumph was your triumph
Your dignity and your hope found expression in his life And your freedom, your
7 democracy is his cherished legacy
It is hard to eulogize any man to capture in words not just the facts and the dates
9 that make a life, but the essential truth of a person their private joys and sorrows;
10 the quiet moments and unique qualities that illuminate someone’s soul How much
11 harder to do so for a giant of history, who moved a nation toward justice, and in the
12 process moved billions around the world
Born during World War I, far from the corridors of power, a boy raised herding
14 cattle and tutored by the elders of his Thembu tribe, Madiba would emerge as the
15 last great liberator of the 20th century Like Gandhi, he would lead a resistance
16 movement a movement that at its start had little prospect for success Like Dr
King, he would give potent voice to the claims of the oppressed and the moral
18 necessity of racial justice He would endure a brutal imprisonment that began in the
19 time of Kennedy and Khrushchev, and reached the final days of the Cold War
Emerging from prison, without the force of arms, he would like Abraham Lincoln
hold his country together when it threatened to break apart And like America’s
Founding Fathers, he would erect a constitutional order to preserve freedom for
23 future generations a commitment to democracy and rule of law ratified not only
24 by his election, but by his willingness to step down from power after only one term
Given the sweep of his life, the scope of his accomplishments, the adoration that he
26 so rightly earned, it’s tempting I think to remember Nelson Mandela as an icon,
27 smiling and serene, detached from the tawdry affairs of lesser men But Madiba
28 himself strongly resisted such a lifeless portrait Instead, Madiba insisted on sharing
29 with us his doubts and his fears; his miscalculations along with his victories “I am
30 not a saint,” he said, “unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.”
It was precisely because he could admit to imperfection because he could be so
32 full of good humor, even mischief, despite the heavy burdens he carried that we
33 loved him so He was not a bust made of marble; he was a man of flesh and blood
34 a son and a husband, a father and a friend And that’s why we learned so much from
35 him, and that’s why we can learn from him still For nothing he achieved was
36 inevitable In the arc of his life, we see a man who earned his place in history
37 through struggle and shrewdness, and persistence and faith He tells us what is
38 possible not just in the pages of history books, but in our own lives as well
Mandela showed us the power of action; of taking risks on behalf of our ideals
Perhaps Madiba was right that he inherited, “a proud rebelliousness, a stubborn
41 sense of fairness” from his father And we know he shared with millions of black
42 and colored South Africans the anger born of, “a thousand slights, a thousand
43 indignities, a thousand unremembered moments…a desire to fight the system that
44 imprisoned my people,” he said
But like other early giants of the ANC the Sisulus and Tambos Madiba
46 disciplined his anger and channeled his desire to fight into organization, and
47 platforms, and strategies for action, so men and women could stand up for their
God-given dignity Moreover, he accepted the consequences of his actions, knowing
49 that standing up to powerful interests and injustice carries a price “I have fought
50 against white domination and I have fought against black domination I’ve
51 cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live
52 together in harmony and [with] equal opportunities It is an ideal which I hope to
III live for and to achieve But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to
Mandela taught us the power of action, but he also taught us the power of ideas; the
56 importance of reason and arguments; the need to study not only those who you
57 agree with, but also those who you don’t agree with He understood that ideas
58 cannot be contained by prison walls, or extinguished by a sniper’s bullet He turned
59 his trial into an indictment of apartheid because of his eloquence and his passion,
60 but also because of his training as an advocate He used decades in prison to
61 sharpen his arguments, but also to spread his thirst for knowledge to others in the
62 movement And he learned the language and the customs of his oppressor so that
63 one day he might better convey to them how their own freedom depends upon his
Mandela demonstrated that action and ideas are not enough No matter how right,
65 they must be chiseled into law and institutions He was practical, testing his beliefs
66 against the hard surface of circumstance and history On core principles he was
67 unyielding, which is why he could rebuff offers of unconditional release, reminding
68 the Apartheid regime that “prisoners cannot enter into contracts.”
But as he showed in painstaking negotiations to transfer power and draft new laws,
70 he was not afraid to compromise for the sake of a larger goal And because he was
71 not only a leader of a movement but a skillful politician, the Constitution that
72 emerged was worthy of this multiracial democracy, true to his vision of laws that
73 protect minority as well as majority rights, and the precious freedoms of every
And finally, Mandela understood the ties that bind the human spirit There is a word
76 in South Africa Ubuntu a word that captures Mandela’s greatest gift: his
77 recognition that we are all bound together in ways that are invisible to the eye; that
78 there is a oneness to humanity; that we achieve ourselves by sharing ourselves with
79 others, and caring for those around us
We can never know how much of this sense was innate in him, or how much was
81 shaped in a dark and solitary cell But we remember the gestures, large and small
82 introducing his jailers as honored guests at his inauguration; taking a pitch in a
Springbok uniform; turning his family’s heartbreak into a call to confront
HIV/AIDS that revealed the depth of his empathy and his understanding He not
85 only embodied Ubuntu, he taught millions to find that truth within themselves
It took a man like Madiba to free not just the prisoner, but the jailer as well to show
87 that you must trust others so that they may trust you; to teach that reconciliation is
88 not a matter of ignoring a cruel past, but a means of confronting it with inclusion
89 and generosity and truth He changed laws, but he also changed hearts
For the people of South Africa, for those he inspired around the globe, Madiba’s
91 passing is rightly a time of mourning, and a time to celebrate a heroic life But I
92 believe it should also prompt in each of us a time for self-reflection With honesty,
93 regardless of our station or our circumstance, we must ask: How well have I applied
94 his lessons in my own life? It’s a question I ask myself, as a man and as a President
We know that, like South Africa, the United States had to overcome centuries of
96 racial subjugation As was true here, it took sacrifice the sacrifice of countless
97 people, known and unknown, to see the dawn of a new day Michelle and I are
98 beneficiaries of that struggle But in America, and in South Africa, and in countries
99 all around the globe, we cannot allow our progress to cloud the fact that our work is
The struggles that follow the victory of formal equality or universal franchise may
102 not be as filled with drama and moral clarity as those that came before, but they are
103 no less important For around the world today, we still see children suffering from
104 hunger and disease We still see run-down schools We still see young people
105 without prospects for the future Around the world today, men and women are still
106 imprisoned for their political beliefs, and are still persecuted for what they look like,
107 and how they worship, and who they love That is happening today
And so we, too, must act on behalf of justice We, too, must act on behalf of peace
There are too many people who happily embrace Madiba’s legacy of racial
110 reconciliation, but passionately resist even modest reforms that would challenge
111 chronic poverty and growing inequality There are too many leaders who claim
112 solidarity with Madiba’s struggle for freedom, but do not tolerate dissent from their
113 own people And there are too many of us on the sidelines, comfortable in
114 complacency or cynicism when our voices must be heard
The questions we face today how to promote equality and justice; how to uphold
116 freedom and human rights; how to end conflict and sectarian war these things do
117 not have easy answers But there were no easy answers in front of that child born in
World War I Nelson Mandela remind us that it always seems impossible until it is
119 done South Africa shows that is true South Africa shows we can change, that we
120 can choose a world defined not by our differences, but by our common hopes We
121 can choose a world defined not by conflict, but by peace and justice and
We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again But let me say to the young
124 people of Africa and the young people around the world you, too, can make his
125 life’s work your owfn Over 30 years ago, while still a student, I learned of Nelson
Mandela and the struggles taking place in this beautiful land, and it stirred
127 something in me It woke me up to my responsibilities to others and to myself, and
128 it set me on an improbable journey that finds me here today And while I will
129 always fall short of Madiba’s example, he makes me want to be a better man He
130 speaks to what’s best inside us
After this great liberator is laid to rest, and when we have returned to our cities and
132 villages and rejoined our daily routines, let us search for his strength Let us search
133 for his largeness of spirit somewhere inside of ourselves And when the night grows
134 dark, when injustice weighs heavy on our hearts, when our best-laid plans seem
135 beyond our reach, let us think of Madiba and the words that brought him comfort
136 within the four walls of his cell: “It matters not how strait the gate, how charged
137 with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my
What a magnificent soul it was We will miss him deeply May God bless the
140 memory of Nelson Mandela May God bless the people of South Africa.
THEMATIC ANALYSIS IN THE TEXT
Interpersonal Theme Topical Theme Markedness
4 To GraỗaMachel and the Mandela family; to President
Zuma and members of the government; to heads of states and government, past and present; distinguished guests unmarked
5 To the people of South Africa people of every race and walk of life the world unmarked
8 Your dignity and your hope unmarked
9 And your freedom, your democracy unmarked
11 that (the essential truth of a person their private joys and sorrows; the quiet moments and unique qualities) unmarked
13 Born during World War I marked
21 And Given the sweep of life marked
43 In the arc of his life marked
53 But like other early giants of the ANC marked
54 so men and women unmarked
57 standing up to powerful interests and injustice unmarked
79 No matter how right marked
90 that (his vision of laws) unmarked
100 how much of this sense unmarked
109 to teach that reconciliation unmarked
116 With honesty, regardless of our station or our circumstance, marked
125 But in America, and in South Africa, and in countries all around the globe marked
131 For For around the world today marked
134 Around the world today marked
135 and men and women marked
140 And so too we unmarked
144 but too many people unmarked
148 but too many leaders unmarked
176 After this great liberator unmarked
180 And when the night unmarked
182 when our best-laid plans unmarked
184 Madiba and the words unmarked