Question

Describe the persuasive appeal of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Refer to specific persuasive devices and literary elements in your answer.

Answer 1

Martin addressed the conflict or the a struggle or clash between opposing races in the world. the main theme of the speech by Martin; who is the protagonist, is to break down the barrier of racism and animosity between whites and blacks, and to promote equality between people of all color, not just whites. there's one line (at least I'm pretty sure it's in that speech!) where he says (not in these exact words), violence only creates more violence - you can't get rid of darkness with more darkness, you need light. so the hatred can only be changed by love.

He was trying to persuade everyone to basically not pay attention to the skin color of each other. He told everyone that we are all equal. Martin called out how people where to judgmental over color of skin(indirect characterization). All in all, in a way, Dr. Martins speech could be considered a motivational speech as well. After his speech, it motivated many to change their ways of thinking, and new laws weer created. Although, many still struggled with there internal conflict; the conflict within themselves on whether or not to accept or oppose his speech. They didn't want to be judged by others. In a way, Dr.Martin is a symbol of the start of Freedom for African Americans everywhere.

Hope this helped!! :)

Answer 2

Its awesome! Thanks so much!

Answer 3

Np girl! If you ever need any help, ask me and I'll try! :)

Answer 4

This is a great answer! ^ To my Connections Academy English students: Don't use this response on your exam, because that would mean you used outside resources and would get a zero on the whole thing. :( -an English Teacher

Answer 5

Dr. King's speech is perhaps one of the most famous speeches to ever be spoken. His use of repetition on the words "I have a dream" creates an effect, as well as his repeating of how "Now is the time", and "Let freedom ring". His choice of phrasing keeps the tone serious and firm, yet without anger.
He uses ethos, saying "And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true". Not only that but he also uses pathos when he states "Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends".

Answer 6

Dr. King uses severall appeals in his "I have a dream" speech. The first appeal is hasty generalization, when he says that "all men are created equal." He is generalizing all men, who fought to be individuals. The second appeal he uses is counterargument, when he says that "america has not made good on the unpaid check." He is going against the argument that we have to pay the government, which so many blacks and whites fought to avoid. This is how Dr. King uses appeals in his speech.