Rhetorical Devices In Letter From Birmingham Jail

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On April 16th, 1963, Martin Luther King Junior wrote an astonishing letter to his fellow clergymen. While behind bars in Birmingham jail for unjust reasoning King decided it would be best that his words were written and not just heard. Along with justifying his actions and proving that he is not "unwise and untimely." Building an inspiring argument and claim for his followers and partners. Compose his rebuttal, claiming that he is not against the people and simply wants equality for all. While writing the letter, he uses a variety of rhetorical devices and appeals to back up his argument against the people who call his activities "unwise and untimely." Forwarding his claim, King established a sense of credibility. Explain that he is not an …show more content…

Adding on, he also uses logical appeals to augment his reasoning of why time is a misconception and that the right time is all the time. His use of logical appeal is meant to show the reader why time relates to the struggle for freedom and proves that time is not everything when it comes to segregation and God-given rights. King’s use of rhetorical devices is clear and even more evident when it shifts into a personification type. Describing the South's beautiful churches as having lofty spires pointing heavenward. In addition, he expressed the impressiveness of the South and "her" massive religious education buildings. The purpose of this device is to show how such a gorgeous environment can fester with hateful people. For example, he states "What kind of people worship here?" Alluding to the segregationists and hateful leaders who suppress their people. Finally, at the end of the letter, King reiterates everything he had stated beforehand. Going into detail of how he hopes that the letter reaches the clergymen in good state and that their faith is strong. Proving that he wishes for nothing but the best in all

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