Rhetorical Analysis Of Jfk Inaugural Address

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In 1961, John F. Kennedy captures the entire nation’s attention as he asks the American public to commit themselves to service and sacrifice during his Inaugural Address. Kennedy had recognized the importance of delivering this speech, as he had just won the election by one of the smallest popular vote margins in history. In addition to this, the American people were becoming increasingly fearful of the Cold War with Russia. To calm the fears of his fellow citizens, it was crucial for the incoming president to earnestly inform the public of what he wanted to accomplish during his time in office. Kennedy eloquently conveys his seriousness of purpose and knowledge of global issues through artistic language and numerous rhetorical devices. Kennedy identifies his presidential priorities through his use of frequent repetition, antithesis, and symbolic metaphors. Throughout his speech, J.F.K. frequently uses repetition …show more content…
He implies that his presidency will turn America around by saying that his election “symbolizes an end as well as a beginning,” and “signifies renewal as well as change.” He bridges the gap between the younger and older generations of America through the use of antithesis. The president unites them under one goal and purpose so that they can move forward to work to accomplish his goals. Similarly, in one of the most famed lines in American history, Kennedy informs every American to “ask not what America will do for you, but what you can do for America.” By saying this, John F. Kennedy boosts the morale of the American people, and he calls his audience to action. He instructs them to take charge and to improve their nation and make it stronger. He asks his fellow citizens to rise to whatever challenges they may be facing, both individually and nationally, prompt peace and address

Jfk Inaugural Address Rhetorical Analysis

On January 20th, 1961, president John F. Kennedy made his famous Inaugural Address, urging the people of the United States to come together in the face of impending danger. Kennedy frequently uses chiasmus and antimetabole to juxtapose his warnings with his advice, as well as allusions to famous literary works that help his audience connect more deeply to his speech. Additionally, Kennedy makes much use of anaphora to help emphasize his points more deeply so that they stick with his audience even…

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Jfk Inaugural Address Rhetorical Analysis

President Kennedy’s Inaugural Address speech uses both persuasive language and rhetorical strategies to convey a message that the United States of America will not live in fear of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. For example, allusions to Abraham Lincoln remind the world that The U.S. will not hold any prejudices against other world nations under the authority of JFK. Similarly, contrasting statements, called antithesis, establish guidelines for every American to abide by in order to serve one’s…

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Rhetorical Analysis Of Jfk Inaugural Address

Right after a recession in the United States, President JFK held a news conference to tell his fellow citizens how important it was to sacrifice for America and simultaneously antagonize the steel companies for increasing their price of steel with "ruthless disregard" for the responsibilities towards America. JFK's speech emphasizes the struggles of the American government at the time through his use of repeating phrases, puts himself in a group with the American people through the use of the first…

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Jfk Inaugural Address Rhetorical Analysis Essay

About fifty years ago, John F. Kennedy gave his famous inaugural address. He was our thirty-fifth president of the United States and was in office from January 20, 1961 until he was assassinated on November 22, 1963. This speech, said on the first day of his presidency, was one that people will remember forever and made a lasting impact on the citizens. By hearing his speech, it is evident that he was calling Americans to unite. He clearly alludes to the fact that the citizens of the United States…

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DONE DONE JKF Essay

Mikayla Spears Mrs. Christal AP Language Nov 24, 2014 JFK Rhetorical Analysis A strong leader is one who can evoke a sense of security, inspiration, and idealism into their audience. To put it simply, John F. Kennedy was unquestionably somebody who could move a crowd. On January 20, 1961, this young leader was sworn in to office and gave one of the most memorable and moving speeches of all time. As with most inaugural addresses, strong rhetoric is used to persuade the audience about the speaker’s…

Words 1186 - Pages 5

Essay about DONE DONE JKF

Mikayla Spears Mrs. Christal AP Language Nov 24, 2014 JFK Rhetorical Analysis A strong leader is one who can evoke a sense of security, inspiration, and idealism into their audience. To put it simply, John F. Kennedy was unquestionably somebody who could move a crowd. On January 20, 1961, this young leader was sworn in to office and gave one of the most memorable and moving speeches of all time. As with most inaugural addresses, strong rhetoric is used to persuade the audience about the speaker’s…

Words 1192 - Pages 5

Essay Assignment 3 4 10 2015

David A. Fitch Professor Blackwood English 101 10 April 2015 Rhetorical Analysis of JFK Inauguration Speech One of the many key attributes to John F. Kennedy was his effortless and eloquent ability to give speeches. His inaugural was presented with ease and with his pleasant Bostonian accent. He provides pause at the right moment for the crowd to applaud and the speech as a whole flows very smoothly for those who hear it presented by him. Being able to see him deliver it supports his talents as…

Words 877 - Pages 4