Hassan Moore.Eng. 1A
1. Identify the thesis.
The thesis of this letter was that a just society can not be formed unless injustice is challenged, and that society can not grow without just conflict against immorality.
That freedom from oppression must be fought for, because it will only come as a result of decisive action, and that often it is only through a form of nonviolent disruption that a society will be forced to reconsider its standpoint on an issue.
Another integral part of the thesis, was an often mentioned feeling of disappointment in the skewed views and position held by the majority of the members of the clergy, the dithering of the moderates (who had it within their power to affect change in the culture),
and that the flawed beliefs of the ruling society were shared, or through inaction allowed by an organization that professes ethics and love.
2. What type of argument is it, a claim of fact, policy or value?
I believe it to be a mixture of all, but more so of the latter.It stands as an argument about the issues of policy because it clearly defines the social, legal, and constitutional injustices being committed at the time. It is written in the second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence, the manifesto of American freedom, that all people in this nation are entitled to the right to live life comfortably and without persecution. It also states that it is the right of the people when a government is unjust to use civil and sometimes radical means to alter that government for the better. So this letter clearly states an issue of policy and assuring that the rights granted by liberty are for, and serve all people.
This letters intent on presenting an argument based on value is obvious, just by its very nature as well as by its content. The issues discussed within are some of the cardinal points of human rights and civility. There are many points during the letter where a religious value is called into account, and the thought that someone of faith has an inherent duty to support justice and morality. It also speaks deeply with the underlying tone, that equality is, and should be self evident. It is during these points in the letter that I see the simultaneous expression of value and fact. The argument that tied it all together were the statements that show that societies moral, political, and physical standpoint on human rights needed to be amended, in order to make a nation with more equality and justice.
3.Note the repetition and other stylistic forms King employs. How does the writing style support the argument?
Dr. King’s literary cadence and use of reiteration and metaphor help to paint a vivid picture to the reader and inspire the genuine emotion and concern necessary for the message to be received. He utilizes historical citation of some of the great minds of democratic principles, to show that the precedence set by them for justice, is in accordance with the civil rights movement. His use of biblical references was employed to show the parallels and timelessness of all just action.
4. Who is the audience and why is King addressing them?
The audience being addressed in this letter are the members of the clergy who were critical of Dr. King’s actions, without completely understanding or considering the need for and weight of his deeds. He is addressing them because he feels that they are people of understanding and that perhaps, if they had a full view of what is necessary and what precipitated his actions, he could gain their support.
5. What about this letter gives it universal appeal? What makes it a great piece of literature?
The universal and immutable appeal of this letter is that it is a comprehensive expression of revolution and positive change. There have always been struggles related to civility and justice, and they continue today, but pieces of literature like this show the pivotal thoughts and decisions that must be made in order to make the world a more cohesive and peaceful place. It shows us where we have been, how far we have come, and how far we still have to go in search of a civilization of true liberty.
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