Bridging inter-narrative tensions : Emplotting Chinese state identity in BRI narratives for domestic and foreign audiences

Abstract: This thesis contributes to the literature on strategic narratives by investigating how China navigates tensions between its projected identities in Belt and Road Initiative narratives relatingto Italy, the United Kingdom, and India aimed at domestic and international audiences. Usinga modified version of Colley’s (2019) method of narrative analysis, the thesis traces how Chinese state identity is emplotted in narratives aimed at domestic and international audiences, respectively. It proceeds to discuss how tension can arise from the distinct choices of inclusionand omission of events as a result of the differing aims and contexts of the two categories of narratives. Finally, it evaluates how the emplotment mechanisms of omission/silencing, linking, sharpening, clarifying, and flattening can be used to ease these tensions through selective deemphasising of narrative elements.