Obama Speech Rhetorical Analysis

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Rosa Cruz Professor Dominguez English 103 17 September 2015 Rhetorical Analysis Many would argue that President Obama is one of the most effective speakers in the decade. With his amazing speeches, he captivates his audience with his emotion and official tone. One of his most emotionally driven speeches is his eulogy for Reverend Clementa Pinckney. Obama appeals to his audience which happens to be the loved ones of the victims of the Charleston shooting. Obama eulogy is very effective since he uses rhetorical appeals to honor Reverend Clementa Pinckney and the victims of the Charleston shooting as well as bring to the light the struggles faced by African Americans. With his unique style of speaking, Obama makes it easy for his …show more content…

In his speech, Obama uses terms like “Us”, “We”, and “Our” which let him connect with his audience by allowing him to identify with them. In a way it lets him connect with his audience’s mourning . Obama also allows his audience to use their imagination to remember Reverend Clementa Pinckney during his speech. He uses imagery like “ He would not grow discouraged. After a full day at the capitol, He’d climb into his car and head to the church to draw sustenance from his family, from his ministry,from the community that loved and needed him.” With this Obama paints a picture of Reverend Clementa and uses emotion to captivate the audience’s attention. In efforts to personalize his speech,Obama uses bit of humor. When referring to the time he met Reverend Clementa Pinckney he states, “Back when I didn’t have visible grey hair.” With this bit of added humor, Obama attempts to ease his audience into the eulogy. He lets his audience have a laugh and connect with him. Obama also uses a lot of passion in his eulogy. Halfway through his speech, Obama makes a bold statement which makes his audience roar with applause. With a strong and passionate tone he states “Oh, but God works in mysterious ways. God has different ideas.” Obama’s tone and statement makes his audience feel his compassion which creates a memorable and unforgettable speech for his audience. Obama use for pathos in his eulogy is very effective since he is able to target the of his audience and use emotion to connect with

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