Question

which passage from kennedy’s inaugural address is an example of ethos? a.“to those people in the huts and villages of half the globe struggling to break the bonds of mass misery, we pledge our best efforts to help them help themselves.” b.“for i have sworn before you and almighty god the same solemn oath our forebears prescribed nearly a century and three-quarters ago.” c.“we dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution. let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of americans . . . .” d.“we observe today not a victory of party but a celebration of freedom—symbolizing an end as well as a beginning—signifying renewal as well as change.” unsubscribe · report · fri english

Answer 1

I think it is B because he is saying he swore it to god. Ethos: having a credible source. Which is the only choice that tries to prove his credibility.

Answer 2

As a rhetoric ethos must carry the messages of ideals and beliefs peculiar for the addressed community. The main purpose is to plant trust in audience. Good moral standards characterize ethos. In option B, speech-maker mentions the phrases like I have sworn before you and almighty God and solemn oath which describes moral preference of the people and he tries to persuade people with the long-standing belief. We cannot observe these qualities in other answers. Therefore, the correct answer is B.