A Study on the Construction of National Image in Xinhuanet’s Editorial on the V-Day Military Parade from the Perspective of Appraisal Theory

Abstract

Drawing on the Appraisal Theory and Periodicity Theory, this study conducts a discourse cohesion and interpersonal meaning analysis of the announcement editorial on Xinhuanet’s V-Day commemorative activities, examining macroTheme, macroNew, hyperTheme, and hyperNew thematic progression patterns. Compared to traditional discourse cohesion analysis, periodicity assists in clarifying the discourse's wave-like theme-new information structure; when combined with appraisal theory, the analysis reveals coherent interpersonal meanings, thereby avoiding abrupt shifts in attitude. Through meticulous theme selection, rigorous discourse cohesion, and substantial argumentation, commentators establish an objective ‘Peacekeeper’ China’s national image.