Abstract

Persuasion is a linguistic, social and cognitive phenomenon often observed in argumentative discourse. In spite of the attention paid to the study of persuasive notions, the techniques employed by persuaders to influence others’ thinking, and the effects that these tactics have on the audiences, less interest has been given to studying the persuasive discourse of women. Very limited endeavors have been made to establish linguistic studies for public speeches delivered by women as effective public speakers. Therefore, the study seeks to identify the concept of persuasion in modern linguistic studies and how it has been represented in women’s public speeches. It also aims to clarify the relation between arguments and the creation of persuasive appeals and study the argumentative tec utilized by Queens for conveying persuasive messages. To achieve these aims, the study adopts a model of analysis proposed by New Rhetoric Theory (1958) to be applied to four samples of public speeches for Queen Elizabeth II Alexandra Mary (Queen of the United Kingdom), Queen Rania Al-Abdullah (Queen of Jordon). The study concludes that argumentative discourse plays a crucial role in conveying persuasive aspects through the skillful and artful embodiment of the orator's background, opinions, and expertise. Argumentative techniques prove to provide efficient logistical tools for framing persuasive pleas. That is, the two queens use certain premises based on inferential claims to influence people's cognitive thinking and motivate them to act in a way that is best for them. They, hence, manage to construct powerful persuasive discourse through discursive argumentative techniques.