A Framing Metaphorical Analysis of Chinas National Images --Based on the 2021 Economic News Reports on China of The Economist

Abstract

National image is an important part of Chinas soft power. The Economist uses a large number of metaphorical frames that relate to all aspects of Chinas development. Through these metaphorical frames, The Economist endows reports with its concepts and attitudes towards China, and these metaphorical frames also influence readers in an invisible way. This thesis uses the theory of framing and conceptual metaphor to analyze about 110 economic reports on China in The Economist in 2021. Specifically, three kinds of framing metaphors are discussed. They are war metaphors, sport metaphors, and journey metaphors. By analyzing the national images constructed by metaphors in each frame, the thesis finds that the journal sees China as a rising power, with its rising international status, rapid economic growth, world-leading technology and active participation in global governance, which constructs a positive image of China as a developing and progressive country. However, due to the inherent ideological bias of the West, the report maliciously smears Chinas national image, especially in terms of regime and human power. In addition, it also believes that China restricts freedom of speech and its environmental pollution is serious. In conclusion, The Economist has constructed an overall negative national image of China, which has exerted profound international influence. In the context of profound changes in the international communication environment, the author hopes that this thesis can provide some enlightenment for improving Chinas international discourse power.