The “Balfour Gang” versus “the Saladin Gang”: Geographic metaphors and metonyms in Israel as securitized, polarizing constructs

Abstract

Research has illustrated that metaphors and metonyms are concepts that govern thought and action, playing a central role in constructing realities. While previous studies have demonstrated that metaphors and metonyms are utilized as tools for conceptualizing nations, this study examines how metaphoric and metonymic representations of specific locations within the nation-state can serve as polarizing constructs within the nation-state. The State of Israel presents an interesting case study regarding how metaphors and metonyms construct polarizing identities, following increasingly polarized cross-cutting cleavages. Utilizing the Sketch Engine ELEXIS Hebrew Web corpora, this study utilizes discourse analysis tools to characterize the reproduction of metaphorical and metonymic meanings of geographical locations, tapping into specific cultural codes of the Israeli speech community.