Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Lord Chesterfield

654 Words2 Pages

Often time, parents want their children to succeed; however, they have differing reasons for why they want their children to succeed. In Chesterfield’s case, it is for the advancement of his family reputation. While Lord Chesterfield acts like he is only in favor of his son, it is quite evident that he wants to control his son’s life to uphold his family name. Throughout the letter, Chesterfield constantly brings up the responsibilities his son has towards society. With every reminder of the obligations his son has, Chesterfield reveals his own values. Lord Chesterfield commences the letter doubtful whether sending this letter will be effectual as advice from parents “is ascribed to the moroseness, the imperiousness, or the garrulity of old age” (ln. 6-8). By giving examples of how advice is typically perceived from parents, Chesterfield prepares his son to take his advice very seriously. Chesterfield then goes on saying he “[advises] [his son] as a friend, an indulgent one too” (18-19). By speaking in terms of …show more content…

Chesterfield shows this by starting off the letter as a friend in order to convince his son he acts in his favor and talks about the “moroseness” advice from a parent is met with from a child. Chesterfield then makes a sharp transition from being a friend to being a father by pointing out that as his benefactor, Chesterfield can stop giving his son money if he chooses not to heed his advice. Through this manipulation, Chesterfield is able to get under his skin before threatening his son. After attempting to manipulate his son, Chesterfield goes on to give his advice. Using rhetorical questions, Chesterfield tells his son to study with passion and warns his son if he fails to study a subject with his whole heart, he will be ridiculed by society. Through all of his rhetorical strategies, Chesterfield reveals his value of education, family honor, and

Open Document