The self-image as an argumentative strategy in political discourse

This work analyzes the functioning of ethos in political discourse. In other words this study shows how the speaker proceeds to project a glowing image of himself according to his communicative intention. In this process he can exonerate himself and accuse his political opponents in order to modify the belief system of his audience. And in the process he may have the intention of presenting his political opponent(s) as being responsible for the social breakdown. This pragmatic analysis applies to Guéi Robert''s speech at the Forum for National Reconciliation in Côte d''Ivoire on 26 November 2001. In a context of national reconciliation where scapegoats for social and political fractures are sought it seems difficult for a speaker to tarnish his own image and to present himself to the entire nation as the one who caused the misfortune. It is in this logic that Guéi Robert fits.