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  • Essay / Letter from Birmingham Jail - 805

    In the past, many protests have taken place to oppose something unjust or to make others aware of bad actions happening in our country. People fought for their rights and against the prejudices they face, to achieve the justice that each of them is fighting for. Dr. Martin Luther King, one of the leaders of the protest against prejudice, was able to assert the rights of the African American people. Eight of his fellow clergy criticized his protest approach, but they still supported him. In the "Letter from Birmingham Jail", King wanted to encourage others to rebel against evil, even if it is not wise, it is good, he was optimistic and yet disappointed. In order to convey his tone and rationale, he addresses people using allusion, analogy, and ethos. King uses allusion to please his audience and convince them that what he is doing is right and necessary. He refers in particular to the Bible: "Was not Paul an extremist of the Christian gospel: 'I carry in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus'". It is consistent that King is obliged to take a stand against prejudice and racism, as Paul did to carry the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. King returns to Paul to convey his intention that Paul suffer for what he believes and that his fellow clergy must accept sacrifice because it is right. Additionally, King says, “Socrates felt it was necessary to create tension in the mind so that individuals could rise above the myths and half-truths of slavery. » To be specific, King wants people to know that they must create a social conscience like Socrates did for others to speak out against bad actions. This helps convey King's purpose by implying that in order...... middle of paper...... which can never be cured as long as it is concealed but must be opened to its full ugliness to the natural medicines of air and light. » King clearly states that it is futile to hide from the problem, from the prejudices, and that keeping it all inside will not get you anywhere to find the solution, people should speak out against evil to solve the problem. presents his optimism as he ponders a remedy for injustice by finding a natural cure for the situation and illness. (Zeugma) As you can see, King uses allusion, ethos, and analogy in “Letter from Birmingham Jail” to successfully reveal his optimism. and disappointment and encourage others to stand up and fight for a resolution instead of remaining in a dilemma. He was able to give faith to others to stand up to injustice and show that his protest tactics should not be noticed. .