Political Sophistry and Logical Fallacies in the Discourse on Israeli occupation: an Analysis of Caryl Churchill’s Seven Jewish Children (2009)

Document Type : Original research papers

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Delta University

Abstract

Seven Jewish Children: A Play for Gaza (2009), ten minutes long in performance, was written by critically acclaimed Caryl Churchill in response to the Israeli army bombings and invasion of the Gaza Strip (Operation Cast Lead) in January 2009. The play was staged at the Royal Court Theatre by nine actors. It focuses on the characters’ biases as they recount oral history. Firstly, this study explores Jewish parents' argument through the lens of argumentation theory, focusing on the validity of their arguments' conclusions and premises. Secondly, it identifies and defines the main logical fallacies used to misrepresent unsound arguments. Finally, the study offers a detailed analysis of the play. The discussion is limited to identifying and analyzing logical fallacies in the parents’ argument. Churchill warns against a culture of denial that could lead to more violent confrontations in the future. Although the play does not present answers, it provides the audience with a theatrical experience that inspires them to discuss political issues and seek solutions for problematic situations.

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Delta University Scientific Journal
Volume 7, Issue 2
September 2024
Pages 246-256

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