This article introduces a framework for analysing multimodal legitimation. Building upon work on legitimation by Van Leeuwen and Van Dijk, a six-layer framework is proposed. This framework pulls together the main aspects of legitimation – seen as a complex and multifaceted concept and practice – which need to be looked into if we are to fully appreciate its functioning in general or any specific instance of its deployment. Using the proposed framework, a video, produced by the Scottish National Party (SNP) encouraging a ‘Yes’ vote in the Scottish referendum on independence, is analysed.
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