A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Renewal of Religious Discourse in Egypt Using Appraisal Theory

This study critically analyses the spoken language used by the speakers using appraisal theory done by Martin and White (2005) as a framework for discourse analysis. The study linguistically analyses the debate between the Grand Imam of AlAzhar and Cairo University President about the issue of renewing religious discourse in Egypt. The analysis depends on applying the three main systems of appraisal theory: attitude, engagement, and graduation. Each system helps to understand how the speakers evaluate the content, engage with other perspectives, convey their stances on religious reform, and scale the intensity of the discourse. Within the broader framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the study also tries to explore how religious discourse is constructed, challenged, and renewed in contemporary Egypt. The study is designed to be descriptive and qualitative. The results reveal that the speakers vary in using the three systems of appraisal to express their views and emotions about the renewal of religious discourse and the application of heritage in modern life.