Question

Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson. We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States . . How does Jefferson use ethos as a rhetorical appeal?

Answer 1

By establishing the source of the Representatives' authority, Jefferson uses ethos as a rhetorical appeal.

Answer 2

Ethos is an element of rhetorical appeal in which you establish yourself as someone who should be listened to, mainly on the grounds of being a morally good person and having intentions in your appeal.

Jefferson does this by stating that it is important for himself and othe representatives that the Supreme Judge of the world, or God, supports their endeavor. This establishes a moral mandate, meaning that they believe their efforts are just in God's eyes, and that it matters to them that it be so.

Jefferson also refers to the people of the colonies as Good People of these Colonies, demonstrating respect and reverence for the people of the colonies, earning theirs in return.