Rhetorical Analysis
Write a brief paragraph about each topic below and why you think it would be a good topic for your Rhetorical Analysis one of which will later be composed in analyzing the rhetorical situation and rhetorical strategies of a single text. The essay will be 1200 words minimum. Only one source is required and that is whatever source you are analyzing. Ideally, 5-6 sentences in MLA format with hanging indentions for citations, if any, please. One of these topics, whichever is chosen, will be used for upcoming assignments in that we are creating a Rhetorical Analysis. George Bush 9/11 Speech Jeff Bezos “What Matters More Than Your Talents” Dr. M. L. King “Letter From Birmingham Jail”
Answer:
George Bush 9/11 Speech: George Bush’s 9/11 speech would make a great topic for a rhetorical analysis because it was a significant moment in American history that evoked strong emotions from people across the country. The speech was delivered just hours after the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, and served as a call to action for Americans to come together and overcome the tragedy. In this speech, Bush utilized various rhetorical strategies, such as repetition and emotional appeal, to rally the American people and gain support for his administration’s response to the attacks. By analyzing the rhetorical situation and strategies used in this speech, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Bush sought to shape public opinion and policy in the wake of 9/11.
Works Cited: Bush, George W. “Address to the Nation on the Terrorist Attacks.” The American Presidency Project, University of California, Santa Barbara, 11 Sept. 2001, www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/address-the-nation-the-terrorist-attacks.
Jeff Bezos “What Matters More Than Your Talents”: Jeff Bezos’ speech “What Matters More Than Your Talents” would make a great topic for a rhetorical analysis because it contains a message that is both universal and important. In this speech, Bezos argues that a person’s character is more important than their talent, and he provides several examples to support his claim. Bezos utilizes rhetorical strategies such as analogies, humor, and personal anecdotes to engage and persuade his audience. By analyzing the rhetorical situation and strategies used in this speech, we can gain a deeper understanding of Bezos’ message and how he sought to inspire and motivate his audience.
Works Cited: Bezos, Jeff. “What Matters More Than Your Talents.” Summit Series, 2010, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_QC5E7fZgg.
Dr. M. L. King “Letter From Birmingham Jail”: Dr. M. L. King’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail” would make a great topic for a rhetorical analysis because it is a powerful piece of persuasive writing that played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. In this letter, King responds to criticisms of his nonviolent protests and argues for the need for immediate action to achieve racial justice. King utilizes rhetorical strategies such as ethos, logos, and pathos to persuade his audience and make his case for civil disobedience. By analyzing the rhetorical situation and strategies used in this letter, we can gain a deeper understanding of King’s message and the impact it had on the Civil Rights Movement.
Works Cited: King Jr., Martin Luther. “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” The Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, Stanford University, 16 Apr. 1963, https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/king-papers/documents/letter-birmingham-jail.
