Why are some depictions of enmity more popular than others? This paper introduces insights from narrative theory, opinion research, and communication theory to the study of language in US Foreign and Security Policy. Based on substantial archival research, it explores the discursive representation of America’s foes across a range of US administrations. The paper argues that despite changes in America’s political leadership, contemporary presidential security rhetoric has consistently framed enemies - from rogue states to the axis of evil to the Islamic State - as atrocious, barbaric actors whose behavior lies outside the ‘civilized’ norms of international society. It demonstrates that this is indeed a constant feature since America’s Founding and suggests that the expectation of a rapid change in US rhetorical patterns after Obama is unfounded, locating their staying power in a high degree of target audience resonance. The research is based on ESRC grant ES/K008684/1.
