Rhetorical Analysis

Kirsten Moran & Maureen Camacho

In 'I Have a Dream’ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. employs pathos, repetition, and similes to
reinforce that people should not be "judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their
character". During the 1960’s, segregation was a bigger issue. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. being a
civil rights activist during this time was important to not only impact the problem but by giving
hope to those who struggle. He indicates that his intended audience is America, in the beginning
he says, “I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest
demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.”
Moreover, pathos was a rhetorical strategy used throughout Dr. Kings speech to show
empathy towards those of racial discrimination. In the speech we see that Dr. King is explaining
though they seek the freedom that so rightful belongs to them, they must keep their dignity and
discipline. He says, “Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of
bitterness and hatred.”. The key word choice within this statement is the words us, our, and
thirst. He uses these words to not only signify that they are not alone, but that he seeks to quench
the thirst too. In all, he empathizes the thirst of freedom with the racially discriminated.
Additionally, repetition is another rhetorical strategy we see within this speech. Dr.
King’s iconic “I Have a dream” phrase is said multiple times in one sitting. The phrase meaning
that “one day” people will see African American folk as people rather than a skin color. Though
it’s not implied now, it means that the nation and the people will grow and learn.
Lastly, the rhetorical strategy similes, is also seen in Dr. Kings speech. We can see this
strategy used when he says, “But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We
refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation.
And so, we've come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of
freedom and the security of justice.”. In this simile he compares justice, opportunity, and
freedom to the banking system. The banking system has to do with money and people are
infatuated with money. He uses this comparison so that people can understand the absence of
justice, opportunity, and freedom the African American community should have.
In essence, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. employs pathos, repetition, and similes to
reinforce that people should not be "judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their
character". He uses these rhetorical strategies to reach people emotionally and help people better
understand the desperation for equality. He uses these strategies to talk to not only those who are
struggling, but to also those who can help make the difference.