I Have a Dream Speech: Rhetorical Analysis

Introduction

It is not a secret that I have a Dream is the most famous, influential, and powerful speech of Martin Luther King. Its essence and concept consist of a vision of the future of the United States of America, where the white and black populations could coexist as equal citizens of their country. To date, the speech entitled I have a Dream is a universally recognized masterpiece of oratory, and many famous politicians have repeatedly considered it, polishing their rhetorical skills.

Rhetorical Analysis

Subject Matter and Goals of the Author

The main aspects of the authors speech are based on touching upon such issues as racial discrimination, inequality, and injustice towards a particular category of citizens. Martin Luther once said: I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed. King Jr. did not just recite, calling for reason, but touched listeners feelings and instilled his ideas and dream into their heads, which became common, and the nation began to believe in them.

The Authors Purpose and Audience

Consequently, the authors goal was to address fellow citizens and the countrys leadership with a description of a wonderful future, giving millions of African Americans a ray of hope. Moreover, King Jr.s speech was delivered in order to encourage the participants to further fight for their rights. Therefore, it was necessary to achieve broad opportunities for blacks in the United States and the future equal coexistence of Americans with different skin colors.

Place and Time

The speech I have a dream was delivered by M.L. King on August 28, 1963, at the end of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The very concept of speech was constructed so that Martin Luther King shared his dream with his comrades. He did not declare how it should be and what should be done but only talked about what he dreamed of. Nevertheless, the presentation of the speech does not detract from the impact of his theses on the audience.

Conclusion

Therefore, Martin Luther Kings speech I have a Dream is recognized as one of the best speeches of the XX century due to its vivid imagery, reasonableness, persuasiveness, and clear structure. The struggle against racial discrimination, segregation, and ignorance has filled America for almost the last century. Therefore, on August 28, 1963, many people gathered at the Washington Memorial to listen to Martin Luthers speech.