Rhetorical Analysis Of Ronald Reagan's Speech

Ronald Reagan’s inspiring, patriotic voice invokes a sense of credibility and ____, which he uses to _________. Reagan’s rhetorical style is crucial in defining him as a president. Not only does he provide his own voice in his speeches, he speaks for his nation. Reagan displays a strong will and integrity in his character, all while being capable of connecting and empathizing with his audience. He gives the common people his respect, which is necessary for reaching the pinnacle of leadership for his country.
For instance, in his speech “Tear Down This Wall” Reagan addresses the need for the people of West Berlin to accept democracy and oppose the Berlin Wall, which planned to separate East and West Berlin as a symbol of communist oppression.

To persuade his audience to walk towards the correct path in such a critical decision, he speaks in an inspiring and uplifting tone to pull the emotions out of his audience. Near the end of his speech, he states, “Together, let us maintain and develop the ties between the Federal Republic and the Western sectors of Berlin”. Consequently, he reaches the culmination of his attempt of persuasion. The use of emotionally appealing diction such as “together” and “ties between” illustrates the image of a vigorous and beneficial relationship between the people and democracy. Reagan’s strategy of ending on this note successfully helps push the people of Berlin to choose the right path into their future. Furthermore, he states “every man is a German, separated from his fellow men. Every man is a Berliner, forced to look upon a scar” and “I understand the fear of war and the pain of division that afflict this continent”. By creating common ground with the Berliners, he also creates an establishment of connection through showing that he understands their situation. Reagan is then able to create an emotional relationship between the people and himself.