See the rhetorical strategies an author uses and identify those most salient to the ... an example of antithesis, but if it really doesn't have much o...
LFBJ Focus in: page 5 Complete the following tasks on a separate sheet of paper or the reverse side of this one.
The point of this task is to help you to 1. See the chronological flow of argument; 2. See the rhetorical strategies an author uses and identify those most salient to the argument; 3. Practice writing a thesis for a rhetorical analysis.
1. Reread page 5 of Letter from Birmingham Jail (Beginning “Let me rush on to mention my other disappointment. I have been disappointed with the white church and its leadership.” And ending through the penultimate paragraph on the page: “We will win our freedom because the sacred heritage of our nation and the eternal will of God are embodied in our echoing demands.”
2.
There are 9 paragraphs on this page. Write down the main message of each paragraph.
3. Now, look at the “build” or “flow” of the argument from your paragraph messages above by completing this sentence, “In conveying his message to the white church and its leadership, King begins by _____________________, then moves to _______________________, and finishes with _______________________.” 4. Then write down in 1 succinct sentence identifying King’s message to the white church and its leadership.
5. Moving chronologically through the section, write down the rhetorical strategies that King strongly employs. Write down as many significant ones that you see, but don’t bother with anything teeny tiny that doesn’t really make a significant rhetorical impact (e.g. you might see an example of antithesis, but if it really doesn’t have much on an impact on the persuasion of the piece, ignore it.). Consider DITS, EPL, and devices. You don’t need to explain them—just note in which paragraph(s) they appear.
6.
Finally, considering the King’s message, his argument, and rhetorical strategies, generate a complete thesis statement answering the following prompt (Please be sure to specify King’s message and do not just write “message.”): Prompt: Analyze the rhetorical strategies that Dr. King uses to convey his message to the white church and its leadership.
