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Which statement best describes how the speaker begins his argument in paragraph 2?

(2) In the providence of God, and by the will of his late Majesty Kamehameha III, this day read in your hearing, I have been called to the high and responsible position of the Chief Ruler of this nation. I am deeply sensible of the importance and sacredness of the great trust committed to my hands, and in the discharge of this trust, I shall abide by the Constitution and laws which I have just sworn to maintain and support. It is not my wish to entertain you on the present occasion with pleasant promises for the future; but I trust that the close of my career will show that I have not been raised to the head of this nation to oppress and curse it, but on the contrary to cheer and bless it, and that when I come to my end, I may, like the beloved Chief whose funeral we yesterday celebrated, pass from earth amid the bitter lamentation of my people.

A.
The speaker begins by summarizing his reasons for wanting to become the next king.
B.
The speaker begins with the rhetorical strategy ethos, establishing his credibility as a responsible and honest man.
C.
The speaker begins with an appeal to logic and reason to ensure his audience will believe his evidence.
D.
The speaker begins by presenting factual evidence of his ability to rule well and wisely.

User Kobato
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2 Answers

1 vote

The statement that best describes how the speaker begins his argument in paragraph 2 is:

B. The speaker begins with a rhetorical tactical temperament to establish his credibility as a responsible and honest person. In his opening speech, the speaker acknowledged the importance of his position and expressed his commitment to uphold the country's constitution and laws. By doing so, he demonstrates his credibility as a responsible and honest leader who takes his responsibilities seriously. It defines the rhetorical strategy of ethics, which is an appeal to the credibility, character, or trustworthiness of the speaker or writer. A speaker's use of temperament in introductions is a powerful way to establish authority and gain the audience's trust.

User Paola Quintero
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6 votes

Final answer:

The speaker begins his argument by establishing his credibility using ethos, emphasizing his responsibility and intention to abide by the Constitution and laws without making empty promises.

Step-by-step explanation:

B. The speaker begins with the rhetorical strategy ethos, establishing his credibility as a responsible and honest man.

The speaker's opening remarks in paragraph 2 are centered on his awareness and humility regarding the significant responsibilities of being the Chief Ruler. He emphasizes his intention to uphold the Constitution and laws, implicitly asking his audience to trust in his leadership and character without making empty promises. This approach concentrates on building his ethos, or ethical appeal, by highlighting his sense of duty and the solemnity with which he understands the role he is to play.

User Lionpants
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