Rhetorical Analysis Of Margret Thatcher's 'Great'

Margret Thatcher, former prime minister of Great Britain, in her eulogy to the American people commemorates the presidency of Ronald Reagan. She calls attention to his good works with the use of rhetorical devices such as repetition, juxtaposition, and through her diction that appeals to pathos.

Thatcher begins the speech by referring Reagan to a “great president, a great American, and a great man.” By doing so, she creates a sense of emphasis on the importance of the former president. Repetition of the word “great” makes Thatchers point clear that Reagan’s existence had a strong impact on the world. She also uses this strategy by beginning three paragraphs with the word “others”. By doing this, she shows that the former president defeated

peoples doubts and proved people to be wrong. She explains that his achievements overcame the expectations that were set for him.

Thatcher uses juxtaposition in contrasting the dark times of presidency and the positivity he has through his leadership. “In the terrible hours after the attempt on his life, his easy jokes gave reassurance to an anxious world.” By using this strategy, she explains his unexpected

reaction to an assassination attempt comforted Americans and allowed them to know that their president was all well.

Thatcher’s diction in her eulogy appeals to the audience’s pathos. By referring to the close relationship she and many others had to president Reagan she triggers the audiences emotions and unites the speaker and audience by sharing a memory. Her choice of words allows the audience to recall the love they had for the president and his good intentions.

Margret Thatcher uses the rhetorical devices repetition, juxtaposition, and appeal to pathos to convey her respect for Ronald Reagan. She leaves the audience with a sense of nostalgia and sadness as they recall the good times of Reagan’s leadership. Her good use of rhetorical strategies conveys her message his presidency had a large impact on the world as it is today.