Femicides Through the Lens of Greek Media: A Critical Discourse Analysis

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the portrayal of femicides in the Greek context, specifically focusing on the femicide of Kyriaki Griva on April 1, 2024. The goal is to detect differences in the way various well-known newspapers, I Kathimerini, Ta Nea, and I Efimerida ton Syntakton (Efsyn), approach the topic. The study employs a critical discourse analysis using a mixed-methods research methodology.

The research was conducted by analyzing three articles from each newspaper, which covered the topic focusing either on the victim and the perpetrator, the murder itself, or the role of the police. This specific event was chosen not only because it is one of the most recent but also because it created a significant uproar in Greek society.

Key findings indicate differences in the portrayal of the event by each newspaper, influenced by their political leanings. Newspapers closer to the political orientation of the government (right-wing) exhibited more tolerance in placing blame on the police and the government in general. On the other hand, the left-wing newspaper was more critical of the governmental mechanisms. Moreover, applying a feminist critical discourse analysis revealed that the more left-leaning the newspaper, the more progressive its portrayal, emphasizing gender and power dynamics, as well as social justice, and criticizing traditional norms and practices.