Rhetorical expressions in editorials and ideology of the Jakarta Post ( a study based on systemic functional linguistics )

Oleh :
Nurul Hidayati - C0398054 - Fak. Sastra dan Seni Rupa

ABSTRACT This research is a descriptive qualitative research of Rhetorical Expressions and Ideology in Editorials of The Jakarta Post based on Systemic Functional linguistics. The source of data in this research is Editorial texts in January 2000 and January 2002. Those data are chosen as the main data based on some criteria. Two of the four editorials concern with President Abdurahman Wahid issues and the others concern with President Megawati Soekarnoputri issues. Besides, those texts have elements constructing register and ideology. In conducting the research, at first, the writer analyzes data based on their lexicogrammar, text structure, polarity and modality system and metaphor. Then, the data analyzed are interpreted to determine the register (field, tenor, and mode). Finally, the writer of the thesis comes into the conclusion as follows: The characteristics of rhetorical expressions found in the whole texts are revealed by: the mostly use of indicative declarative proposition since the writer is positioned as the information provider, the presence of negative polarity beside positive polarity is to show the writer’s resentment, his negative judgement and conviction toward both Presidents. The emergence of low and median modalizations functions as prediction, modulation is used as obligation; mood adjunct is to express probability, obligation, usuality and certainty. Metaphors, likewise, are employed as the other strategy to support the writer’s negative judgement and provide the information variously and interestingly. To add, the dominant use of material process functions to describe the action done by both Presidents and attributive relational process is to show the writer’s opinion, the use of many attitudinal expressions is to express the writer’s judgement and form the public opinion, and the employment of “ If - Clause” is to mobilize the readers into one point where the underlying expectation is contrary to the written form. In expressing the arguments, the writer employs exposition genre in the whole texts, which influences the ideology. This occurs as the writer tries to challenge both Presidents from one-sided argument. The texts are dominated by argument against both Presidents, especially their policies and statements. Besides, the writer gives some suggestions and employs some attitudinal expressions reflecting resistance upon both Presidents. Therefore, the ideology of the writer tends to be left – antagonist in the whole texts.