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What are the logos, ethos, and pathos used in MLK's "I have a

Dream speech"? And how were they used well, or how were they used
unwell?

User Sreyas
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Answer:

Martin Luther King Jr. was a great orator and his "I have a Dream" speech is widely regarded as one of the most powerful speeches of the 20th century. The speech uses a variety of persuasive techniques, including logos, ethos, and pathos, to convey its message and inspire its audience.

Logos refers to the use of logic and reason in an argument. In the "I have a Dream" speech, King uses logos to make a logical and reasoned argument for equal rights for all people, regardless of race. He cites evidence of discrimination and inequality, such as the "bank of justice" being "bankrupt" for black Americans. He also uses historical references, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Emancipation Proclamation, to support his argument.

Ethos refers to the credibility and authority of the speaker. King establishes his ethos by presenting himself as a knowledgeable, passionate, and moral leader who is committed to nonviolence and social justice. He also references his own experiences as a black man in the United States, which lends credibility to his argument.

Pathos refers to the use of emotion in an argument. In the "I have a Dream" speech, King uses pathos to deeply move his audience and inspire them to action. He describes the suffering and injustice faced by black Americans, such as being "handcuffed in the back of a police wagon," "languished in filthy, roach-infested jails," and being "the victim of unspeakable horrors of police brutality." He also paints a vivid picture of his dream for a future where all people are treated as equals and live in harmony.

Overall, King's use of logos, ethos, and pathos in the "I have a Dream" speech is widely regarded as masterful. He carefully balances these persuasive techniques to make a compelling argument for equal rights and inspire his audience to action. However, it is also worth noting that some critics have argued that King's use of pathos, while effective, may have been manipulative and exploitative of his audience's emotions.

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User Ranieuwe
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