Critique of Rhetorical Appeals in "A Call for Unity" Essay

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"A Call for Unity" by Carpenter et al. makes use of logos and ethos to create a persuasive and convincing argument. By using these persuasive rhetoric appeals, Carpenter et al. manage to presents themselves and other non-Negro citizens in a favorable light by suggesting that they have "expressed understanding" (Carpenter et al. 1) and been "responsible citizens" (2). Negro citizens, however, are presented as opposition determined to undermine the "principles of law and order and common sense" (2) through the use of public demonstrations. This essay will explore the various persuasive devices used by Carpenter et al.. to determine how important they are in creating a successful and convincing argument.
Carpenter et al. make use of …show more content…
Following this combined ethos and logos appeal, Carpenter et al. state "All of us need to face that responsibility and find proper channels for its accomplishment" (3). This statement shows understanding and therefore contributes to their overall ethos appeal but at the same time, it contains an underlying tone of logos that will present their overall argument in a logical manner. Again, this enables them to instill more trust in a reader and their overall argument.
Throughout the letter, Carpenter et al. portray a desire to resolve issues in a non-violent manner which again shows understanding and contributes to their overall ethos appeal. For example, they state "We do not believe that these days of new hope are days when extreme measures are justified in Birmingham" (4) and "We urge the public to continue to show restraint should the demonstrations continue, and the law enforcement officials to remain calm and continue to protect our city from violence." (5). These statements make use of ethos to present a logical and emotional argument to the reader and gain the reader's trust and/or make their writing seem more credible. Furthermore they also illustrate their willingness to resolve issues in a peaceful manner which highlights their understanding.
Despite this, the letter is written very differently from what one would expect to find in an effective and successful persuasive piece of writing . One might expect the authors to develop their
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