Final answer:
Alice Walker's rhetorical appeal emphasizes Dr. King's impact and critiques the dismissal of his work, using ethos and pathos to underline ongoing racial issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rhetorical appeal in Alice Walker's quote suggests a very strong recognition and importance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s voice and his influence throughout the century. However, it also hints at a systemic dismissal of his work in certain areas, as seen in the librarians' chuckling in Jackson. This dual appeal serves to both highlight Dr. King's significant impact on the civil rights movement and provoke thought about the ongoing issues of racism and the erasure of important historical figures in certain institutions.
The power of rhetoric during the Civil Rights Movement, exemplified by leaders like Dr. King and others, can not only win the hearts of an audience but also influence the political agenda. When discussing the effectiveness of such appeals, it is crucial to consider the ethos, pathos, and logos—appeals to credibility, emotion, and logic, respectively. These encounters with prophetic rhetoric, especially those that address unjust practices, serve as catalysts for awareness and change, shifting the course of history through persuasive speech and profound appeals.