Question

PLEASE HELP

Read the following excerpt from Gandhi’s “Banaras Hindu University Speech”:

I have been told, “Had we not done this, had some people not thrown bombs, we should never have gained what we have got with reference to the partition movement.” (Mrs. Besant: ‘Please stop it.’) This was what I said in Bengal when Mr. Lyon presided at the meeting. I think what I Am saying is necessary. If I am told to stop I shall obey. (Turning to the Chairman) I await your orders. If you consider that by my speaking as I am, I am not serving the country and the empire I shall certainly stop. (Cries of ‘Go on.’) (The Chairman: ‘Please, explain your object.’) I am simply . . . (another interruption). My friends, please do not resent this interruption. If Mrs. Besant this evening suggests that I should stop, she does so because she loves India so well, and she considers that I am erring in thinking audibly before you young men. But even so, I simply say this, that I want to purge India of this atmosphere of suspicion on either side.

Unlike written literature, speeches can be directly influenced by an audience. Consider the interruption that occurs during Gandhi’s speech. What tone does he use when addressing this interruption? How does the language he uses to address the interruption influence his presentation—negatively or positively?

Answer 1

When interrupted, Gandhi turns to the chairman and seeks his approval to continue. Gandhi is not irritated or angry with the interruption; instead he says that he is willing to stop if people feel that through this speech he is harming his country and the empire. Gandhi’s method of dealing with the interruption is also an example of ethos because it shows the audience he is calm and collected. It has a positive impact on the audience of students, who want him to finish his speech and urge him to “go on.”

Answer 2

The tone that Gandhi uses during his Banaras Hindu university speech is peaceful and friendly. He didn't want to cause any trouble.

When the interruption occurred, he spoke in a calm manner, instead of reacting in an aggressive way. Therefore, the language that he used to address the interruption gave him a positive influence on the people.