Abstract
The study used symbolic convergence theory to analyze the rhetoric of the Tamil separatist movement in Sri Lanka to garner support for their cause. Examining two texts, the 1976 Vaddukoddai Resolution and the 2008 Heroes Day speech, we identified three main fantasy themes and a dominant rhetorical vision in both. This timely study clearly demonstrates the usefulness of SCT as a method of rhetorical analysis across cultures and also incorporates some recent criticisms of the theory. Thus, the study provides nuanced insights into how terrorists inspire followers through their rhetoric.
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Recommended Citation
Prentice, Carolyn and Boange, Suranthi
(2011)
"The Fantasy of Separatism: An Examination of the Rhetoric of Sri Lanka’s Tamil Separatist Movement,"
Speaker & Gavel: Vol. 48:
Iss.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/speaker-gavel/vol48/iss1/3