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Analysis of John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address:

A. Ethos primarily appeals to emotions.
B. Logos relies on logical arguments.
C. Pathos uses ethical considerations.
D. All three rhetorical strategies are evident.

User Tsiger
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address effectively incorporates all three rhetorical strategies: ethos to establish credibility, logos to persuade with logic, and pathos to appeal to emotions. Ethos is incorrectly associated with emotional appeal, while logos and pathos are correctly identified for logical arguments and emotional appeal, respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

Analysis of John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address and Rhetorical Strategies:

John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address is a profound example of the use of rhetorical strategies. Each strategy serves a unique purpose in his speech. To clarify, ethos is about establishing credibility and trust with the audience, and it is often achieved by the speaker's reputation or by referencing respected sources. In contrast, logos appeals to logical reasoning, using factual evidence and clear arguments to persuade. Lastly, pathos aims to tug at the audience's emotions, using language and anecdotes that evoke feelings like patriotism, fear, or hope. These rhetorical appeals are not to be confused as follows: A is incorrect, as ethos does not primarily appeal to emotions but to credibility; B is correct, as logos does indeed rely on logical arguments; C is incorrect because pathos, not ethos, involves emotional appeal while ethos uses ethical considerations; D is correct, demonstrating that Kennedy's speech employed all three strategies effectively.

Kennedy’s address is renowned for its powerful use of pathos, calling the nation to a sense of duty and patriotic service during the Cold War era. However, ethos is also prominently featured, as Kennedy establishes his authority and visions for the nation, drawing on the shared values and trust of the American people. Furthermore, logos underpins his speech, through the use of logical arguments about the need for collaboration and the common goals for liberty and peace. These elements together helped Kennedy's Inaugural Address leave a lasting imprint on its audience.

User Brett Gmoser
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