REFRAMING AUTHENTICITY THROUGH A FEMINIST LENS: CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF SHEREEN SALAMA'S SPEECH

Abstract

This research delves into the complexity in authenticity and character through the lens of feminism, with a focus on Shereen Salama's speech. The discourse surrounding authenticity, when reframed through a feminist perspective, takes centre stage in this exploration.The primary purpose of this study is to unveil the feminist dimensions inherent in Salama's speech and shed light on how a feminist lens reframes our understanding of authenticity. The research addresses a significant gap in literature, aiming to interpret the complexities of authenticity when viewed through the feminist perspective, considering the nuanced layers of language, societal norms, and power structures. Employing a qualitative research design, the study opts for an in-depth examination of the feminist nuances embedded in Salama's discourse. This approach allows for the capture of subtle details that quantitative methods might overlook, providing a holistic understanding of the discourse. Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) stands as the methodological cornerstone, offering the tools needed to dissect the linguistic, discursive, and contextual elements of Salama's speech. The incorporation of Norman Fairclough's CDA framework ensures a structured and comprehensive exploration of the feminist reframing of authenticity. Initial search results have yielded significant insights into the complexities of Salama's discourse. The study builds upon prior research that utilised Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), particularly emphasising feminist perspectives. This research is done through Fairclough’s CDA on Islamic discourse highlighting feminist lens in the interpretation of Hadith. To enhance future investigations, it is suggested to broaden the comparative analysis by examining additional speeches or discourses. Additionally, there is a need to explore how reframing authenticity through a feminist lens influences broader societal perceptions.