Theme Structure and Thematic Progression Patterns in Adel Al-Jubeir’s Political Speeches: A Perspective from Systemic Functional Linguistics

Alqablan, Khalid Abdullah; Alyousef, Hesham Suleiman

doi:10.30470/irelc.2026.2072391.1031

Theme Structure and Thematic Progression Patterns in Adel Al-Jubeir’s Political Speeches: A Perspective from Systemic Functional Linguistics

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Khalid Abdullah Alqablan

Hesham Suleiman Alyousef

English Department, College of Language Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

10.30470/irelc.2026.2072391.1031

Abstract

Theme structure and thematic progression patterns are fundamental components of textual organization within Systemic Functional Linguistics. This study analyzed the employment of these elements in the speeches of Adel Al-Jubeir, a prominent Saudi public figure. The study aimed to provide insights into the organization and coherence of his discourse. Adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, the study examined a data corpus of 10,303 words collected from five speeches delivered at international forums. The speeches were transcribed, segmented into clauses, and analyzed for Theme types (topical, interpersonal, and textual) and thematic progression patterns (constant, zig-zag, and split rheme). Inter-rater reliability was established through independent coding by a second analyst. The findings revealed that Adel Al-Jubeir consistently utilized topical theme as the most prevalent Theme structure, introducing key topics and establishing a coherent discourse. The textual theme also played a significant role in guiding the audience’s understanding and enhancing text cohesion. Thematic progression analysis indicated the dominance of the constant theme pattern, contributing to the coherence and continuity of the discourse. These findings align with previous studies on Theme structure analysis in speeches, emphasizing the importance of coherence and organization in effective communication. The study has implications for teaching discourse organization and coherence in language education, particularly in academic writing, public speaking instruction, and the pedagogical application of Systemic Functional Linguistics in English language teaching contexts.

Keywords

Theme Structure

Thematic Progression Patterns

Adel Al-Jubeir

Systemic Functional Linguistics

Political Discourse

Subjects