Analysis of the letter from Birmingham jail by Martin Luther

Analysis of the letter from Birmingham jail by Martin Luther

This is an assignment that focuses on the analysis of the “letter from Birmingham jail” by Martin Luther King Jr. The paper is a rhetorical analysis paper and also with an argumentative approach.

The analysis of the “letter from Birmingham jail”

Purpose:
The purpose of this assignment is to exhibit a thorough understanding of a rhetorical analysis, which is a form of close reading that examines the rhetorical interactions between a text, an author, and an audience. The assignment will also demonstrate your proficiency with conventions, including grammar, mechanics, and word choice.

Assignment Task:

Firstly, you will analyze the argument made by Martin Luther King Jr. in “Letter From Birmingham Jail.”

To write a rhetorical analysis, you need to be able to determine how the creator of the original work attempts to make his or her argument; based on this reading of the text, you should also discuss whether or not that argument is successful. However, pay attention to how the author relies on arguments based on values, character, and reason (pathos, ethos, and logos). Also, consider the author’s tone and the purpose of the different parts of the essay.

The analysis of the “letter from Birmingham jail”

A. Firstly, write a one-paragraph introduction that identifies the author, title, and gist of the  argument. Work on arousing the reader’s interest and focusing his/her attention on your topic. Include your thesis (the analytical claim with reasons about how the text is or is not successful/effective).

B. Secondly, continue writing a multi-paragraph analysis of the essay. You may use the prewriting outline or graphic organizer from class. Explain and analyze how the author builds and presents his/her argument, and how the author may have connected with or failed to connect with the audience. You will provide evidence (quotes and paraphrases) from the text to support your statements.

C. Thirdly, compose a one-paragraph conclusion: Don’t simply repeat yourself. Restate your thesis by utilizing new vocabulary. What does your analysis reveal? Give the reader something to remember!

Audience:
You’re writing this analysis for someone who has read the essay; convince your reader that the author makes (or does not make) a strong argument through rhetorical appeals, diction, and tone. Therefore, you’ll need to use evidence from the reading to explain your main idea.