Abstract: As is known, stylistics is a subject which applies the theory of modern linguistics to study of style. This paper summarizes the stylistic features of commencement speech by analyzing the diction, syntax and figure of speeches of three American commencement speeches in 2010-2012. The aim is to provide Chinese college students with referenced methods and skills on public speaking by illustrating the expressive effect and the communicative function of the language concerned. 

Key words: stylistics; public speech; commencement speech; stylistic features   

CONTENTS

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review ..1

2.1 Style

2.2 Style in Speech

3. Features of Commencement Speech from American3

3.1 Diction.3

3.2 Syntax4

3.2.1 Sentence Length

3.2.1 Sentence Type

3.3 Figure of Speech7

3.3.1 Simile and Metaphor

3.3.2 Parallelism

3.3.3 Repetition

4. Conclusion9

Bibliography.11

Acknowledgements12