Rhetorical Analysis Of Martin Luther King's Letter From A Birmingham Jail

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Civil rights activist, Martin Luther King, Jr., in his letter, Letter from a Birmingham Jail, illustrates his disapproval of segregation in the United States and why it needs to end. King's argument comes about from reading fellow clergymen's letter to him. He showcases many different tones throughout, going from assertive to optimistic, but still grasps the audience's attention through his use of rhetorical techniques.
In the beginning of his letter, King uses polysyllabic language, such as "...inescapable network of mutuality..." and "interrelatedness of all communities..." King's use of this language helps appeal to a higher educated audience. King also says that the people of Birmingham "…deplore the demonstrations taking place here in …show more content…
King uses the allusion, "Isn't this like condemning Jesus because his unique God consciousness... precipitated the evil act of crucifixion?" He uses this to compare segregation to crucifixion, both being horrible situations of discrimination. King uses metaphors such as "...the shadow of deep disappointment..." to further drive his argument. This specific metaphor shows how his disappointment lingers over him like a large, dark shadow. King implements a few similes into his letter, such as "Like a boil that can never be cured..." This simile is referring to the tension and problems caused by segregation practices. King's use of numerous rhetorical techniques helps him develop his argument thoroughly.
In the end of his letter, King is very optimistic, stating that "If I have said anything in this letter that overstates the truth and indicates an unreasonable impatience, I beg you to forgive me." This quote shows that King wants to settle his differences with the clergymen. King also states, "I hope this letter finds you strong in faith..." and "...the radiant stars of love and brotherhood..." These two quotes showcase how Dr. King hopes the clergymen can come together, despite their opposite opinions.
To conclude, Martin Luther King, Jr.'s letter, Letter from a Birmingham Jail, illustrates King’s argument against segregation practices, throughout the use of numerous rhetorical techniques and King’s
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