Acknowledgements

This book presents the findings of a research project started during my PhD course at the University of Trieste and continued at the University of Milan and at IULM University (Milan). Throughout these years, several people have positively influenced my work by providing innumerable and precious suggestions.

First of all, I would like to thank the editors of this book series, Professor Frans H. van Eemeren and Professor Bart Garssen. Since I first met them at the 2014 ISSA Conference for the Study of Argumentation, they have generously assisted me in the revision and publication of this monograph and a few papers. The insightful comments of two anonymous reviewers have also been instrumental in shaping the pages that follow.

I am particularly grateful to Professor Maurizio Viezzi and Professor David Snelling from the University of Trieste, who first dispensed invaluable advice on interpreting and political communication during my PhD course.

Heartfelt thanks also go to Professor Manuela Raccanello and Professor Graziano Benelli from the University of Trieste, for their useful indications and relevant bibliographical references regarding French political discourse and argumentation.

My deepest gratitude goes to Professor Giuliana Garzone from IULM University, who immediately became interested in my research project when I met her. Over the last few years at the University of Milan and at IULM University, she has constantly encouraged, guided and helped me through the completion of this book.