ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides an accessible, authoritative and comprehensive introduction to Critical Discourse Studies (CDS), covering the main theories, concepts, contexts and applications of this important and rapidly developing field of study. It also provides a clear and accessible state-of-the-art overview of the field for advanced undergraduate and graduate students. The book identifies the clear descriptions and examples of central concepts and theories in CDS. It emphasises the critical dimension of work in a particular area – that is, the chapter presents what is critical about CDS research on pragmatics or gender. The book provides methodologies to help students, teachers and researchers to conduct their own critical research of discourse. It reflects the international character of critical discourse research by bringing together a range of the very best scholarship in Critical Discourse Analysis/CDS from around the world.
