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MLK and "Letter From Birmingham Jail"

Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” contains many examples of his ability to effectively use pathos, or to appeal to the emotions of his audiences. In response to the clergyman’s claim that his use of direct action was "untimely," King states, "We have waited for more than 340 years for our constitutional and God-given rights." As you can see, this statement is in direct relation to the clergyman’s "untimely" notion, but it is apparent that there is an underlying audience. The "we" in this statement refers to his "black brothers and sisters" taking an active role in the civil rights movement. This statement, in terms of pathos, is to inspire under his black brothers and sisters and have them realize that 340 years has been a long enough time to wait.
King continues using pathos while writing this letter. He keeps inspi...

Posted by: Leonard Herriman

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