Discourse Analysis of Argumentation in Imam Ali (PBUH)’s Remarks A Study with Pragmatic Approach

Argumentation is an approach in pragmatics which is examined in this research within the scope of discourse analysis. It is difficult to distinguish discourse analysis from other specialized fields studying speech, since discourse analysis is the same as the analysis of language use, in fact the study of discourse’s practical use. Argumentation is referred to as a set of discursive techniques aimed at drawing the audience’s attention to problems raised, or at increasing the level of their attention for the purpose of persuasion. This research substantiates the persuasive approach through showing the process of its direct impact on some examples of Imam Ali’s speeches and letters. Impact of persuasion is grasped through explaining pragmatics and speech act thereof in the style of argumentative discourse analysis which is thoroughly examined in this study and described and explained with new methods. One of the most important findings of this research is the authoritative power of argumentative discourse, and Imam Ali (PBUH) has gained that position of power from the discursive power of his language rather than from using evidence, aphorisms, and wisdoms which are used as instrumental rules to empower discourse.