Jane Austen Rhetorical Analysis

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Marriage is the biggest and final step between two young people who love one another more than anything. In the marriage proposals by Charles Dickens and Jane Austen we are able to see two different reasons for marriage. While Dickens takes a more passionate approach, Austen attempts a more formal and logical proposal. Rhetorical strategies, such as attitude and diction, have a great impact on the effect the proposals have on the women.
The attitude used by Dickens is much more affectionate and personal than that of Austen. In the beginning of Dickens’ proposal he says “I love you” (Dickens 1). This start shows that he is truly admires this woman, Austen however, begins the proposal with, “my reasons for marrying are…” (Austen 1). The attitudes …show more content…

Dickens was devoted in his speech and mentions being a “shield” (Dickens 12) for her. Austen tells her that a “clergy man like (myself) must marry” (Austen 11). Dickens relates directly to her and tells her that he will be by her side through everything. He wants her to feel safe and protected and therefore gets a more positive response from her. Through his thoughtful word choice, the woman can see that he will always be there to support and love her. This helps her to be able to trust him and want to marry him. Austen approaches his proposal attempting to pursued his woman by showing her the benefits of their marriage. He talks mainly about how he will be greatly affected by the marriage and how it is best for him. His words come across selfish and it is noticed by her. She sees that he does not want her for her but instead for the benefits that come with her. The words used by the men influence the thoughts of the women. They take the men’s words and are able to tell how much they truly love them. The intended purpose of both proposals are reflected in the effect on the women. She is able to see what he wants and if he wants her for who she

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