Images in the Rhetoric of the Far-Right in France and Germany

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore the shifts in the rhetoric utilized by the European Far-Right political parties in response to terror attacks. The subjects of study are the National Front and Alternative for Germany within France and Germany respectively with both states having experienced attacks by Muslim terrorists within recent years. This study was conducted through the employment of Image Theory through a content analysis, specifically through the lens of the Barbarian and Enemy Images and if they can be observed in either party’s rhetoric. This shift in rhetoric can be seen expressed by both parties as they acted and reacted through their policy platforms over the years of observation.