Rositsa Ishpekova, Kalina Ishpekova-Bratanova

When an Eastern-European Problem Becomes a Pan-European One: The Metaphorical Construction of Europe’s 2022 Energy Crisis

Introduction

When an eastern-european problem becomes a pan-european one: the metaphorical construction of europe’s 2022 energy crisis. Explore how The Economist frames Europe's 2022 energy crisis using a DISEASE metaphor for the EU, suggesting a Eurosceptic narrative. A critical metaphor analysis.

Abstract

The paper analyses The Economist’s narrative of the 2022 energy crisis in Europe. Con­ducted within the theoretical framework of Critical Metaphor Analysis (CMA), the analysis establishes that The Economist constructs the EU’s image through a DISEASE-centred metaphoric scenario. The EU is represented as ILL, SUFFERING FROM A DISEASE, SUFFERING NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF A DISEASE, and REQUIRING TREAT­MENT. Hence three elements of the metaphorical scenario are identified here: SYMP­TOMS – EFFECTS – TREATMENT. Furthermore, in the samples analysed, the writers avoid evoking EU’s FUTURE RECOVERY, despite the presence of their thorough analysis of the EU measures taken to secure such. It can therefore be argued that, overall, The Economist puts forward a Eurosceptic or a heavily Eurocritical message on the issue.

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