Self Reliance Rhetorical Analysis Essay

The author Ralph Emerson uses many rhetorical devices in his essay “Self- Reliance” to enhance the emotions of the reader. By using devices such as specific details, analogy, and repetition, Emerson is able to persuade the reader into thinking for themselves. He makes an emphasis on individuality and creativity because he believes that man has no boundaries, until they are taught by those around him. In order for Emerson to get the reader to think for themselves he includes the rhetorical strategy repetition, to make a point that people should not conform to society. Instead people should embrace their originality and share their ideas to everyone around them. For example, the constant use of the word conformity throughout the book, “Your conformity explains nothing. Act singly, and what you have already done singly will justify you now. Greatness appeals to the future…I hope in these

days we have heard the last of conformity and consistency. Let the words be gazetted and ridiculous henceforward.”(Emerson, 8) Continuously using the word conformity Emerson expects the reader to break free from the ties of society. To make his point about nonconformity he tells the reader that history’s greatest thinkers were outcast for being the first one’s to actually stand up and make a change.
The rhetorical device, analogy is used to make a comparison of those who conform to society and those who choose not to.

In order for the reader to understand Emerson’s stance on society he involves religious examples. Such as when he insults preachers for preaching the ideas of others, “I hear a preacher announce for his text and topic the expediency of one of the institutions of his church. Do I not know beforehand that not possibly can he say a new and spontaneous word?” (Emerson 5). While motivating others to break free from religious bonds, at the same time Emerson insults those who conform to society. Although Emerson wants everyone to believe that they can be self-reliant at the same time he puts down other individuals for not standing up for what they desire.Emerson wants the reader to realize that they have the opportunity to become anyone they want in life. Those who have determination for their education will become successful. It is up to the individual to decide if they want to live a life without any say or to stand up for themselves and become somebody that

matters.
Another significant rhetorical device used by Emerson is specific detail, this language evokes imagery. In the following quote, Emerson compares the soul to different elements of the earth in order to show the similarity that both gradually mature and become self reliant, “The genesis and maturation of a planet, its poise and orbit, the bended tree recovering itself from the strong wind, the vital resources of every animal and vegetable, are demonstrations of the self-sufficing, and therefore self-relying soul.”(Emerson, 13)
In conclusion, the use of the rhetorical devices allowed the reader to decide whether or not they wanted to break free from society's norms. It makes me, the reader, feel more connected to what he is saying by eliciting relatable emotions. Emerson’s use of specific details, analogy, and repetition allowed him to connect more with his audience.