Self-Reliance Rhetorical Analysis

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1. The mode of discourse Emerson uses in “Self-Reliance” is argument. In his argument he logically presents a variety of evidence to prove the main purpose of the essay. Emerson’s purpose of this essay is to present the core ideas of Transcendentalism and motivate the reader to “trust thyself.” This idea is repeated throughout the essay in a variety of ways. For example, Emerson states that a person’s belief in his or her personal truths is the source of genius. To the reader it is obvious that Emerson is confident in his beliefs and is not concerned what others may think. Emerson’s hope is that he can convince the audience to change its view and become self-reliant as well. 2. In his essay Emerson uses persuasive rhetoric and other

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