Answer:
The speech "I Have a Dream" by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is an iconic address in American history, renowned for its profound impact on the civil rights movement. Dr. King utilized numerous references from literature, documents, scriptures, and musical works to present a compelling argument for the advancement of civil rights. By examining various references such as those from the Declaration of Independence, spiritual hymns, and the Bible, one can gain insight into the persuasive force of Dr. King's speech, its effect on the audience, and the strategic selection of certain references.
Initially, King cites the Declaration of Independence, a fundamental document that propounds the idea that all individuals are created equally with certain unalienable rights. He quotes the first phrase of this document multiple times, stressing America's failure to keep its promise of equality for African-Americans. Dr. King intentionally used the phrase "all men are created equal" as it carries immense moral weight and authority that embodies American values and principles. The objective was to remind his audience of the promises made by America's forefathers and to highlight the discrepancy between these promises and the injustices experienced by Black people.
Moreover, Dr. King drew upon the Bible to articulate his vision of a future where Black and White children played together in harmony. King quotes Isaiah 40:4-5, highlighting his deep reverence for the Biblical prophetic tradition, which offered a powerful foundation for his pursuit of social justice.
Furthermore, King's allusion to spiritual hymns and the popular song "Free at last, Free at last, thank God Almighty we are free at last" helped to elevate the momentum of his speech. This repetition resonated with those who had a long-standing love for spiritual hymns and songs sung in African American churches, thereby effectively connecting with a broader range of audiences.
In conclusion, Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech's literary allusions to past texts, governmental documents, scripture, and musical works conveyed a powerful and compelling call for civil rights. The incorporation of phrases from the Declaration of Independence, spiritual hymns, and the Bible served to bridge moral authority, religious faith, and moral conviction. These literary references elevated the speech and generated a sense of sincere passion that moved the audience. Dr. King's deliberate use of literature shows his appreciation for its persuasive influence and his effort to draw on language that would resonate with American society. The themes he addressed in his speech from the book of Isaiah, the Declaration of Independence, and spiritual hymns, continue to resonate as ethical and moral touchstones, not only for the American civil rights movement but also for freedom movements worldwide.