Assignment 8: Step by Step Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Two Modern Speeches

For this assignment, you will write a rhetorical analysis essay comparing and contrasting two modern speeches. The goal is to analyze how each speaker uses rhetorical devices and strategies to persuade their audience. You will focus on identifying and explaining the use of rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos) and devices such as irony, metaphor, hyperbole, and parody. Syntax and diction elements can be another rhetorical focus.

Follow the steps below to guide your analysis and essay writing.

Choose speeches that are relevant and engaging to you—examples include commencement addresses, TED Talks, or public statements by contemporary figures.

Here are some websites that will be helpful. Make sure you are choosing modern (last 50 years or so):

21st Century Speeches

GretaThunberg'sSpeechUN

Youth Speeches

Best Speeches of 2020

KeynoteSpeeches21stCentury

Step 1: Selecting Your Speeches Choose two modern speeches (from the 21st century) that address similar themes or issues. Make sure you have access to the full transcripts or reliable video sources. Examples include speeches by Malala Yousafzai, Barack Obama, Greta Thunberg, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, or Emma Watson.

21st Century Speeches

GretaThunberg'sSpeechUN

Youth Speeches

Best Speeches of 2020

KeynoteSpeeches21stCentury

List the titles and speakers of the two speeches you have selected. Briefly explain why you chose these speeches.

Step 2: Annotating the Speeches Read or watch each speech carefully. As you go, annotate the text for examples of rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos) and devices (such as irony, metaphor, hyperbole, and parody).

Identify one example of ethos, pathos, and logos from each speech. Quote or paraphrase the example and explain how it functions in the speech.

Find and explain at least two rhetorical devices (e.g., irony, metaphor, hyperbole, parody) used in each speech. Quote or paraphrase the examples and discuss their effect on the audience.

Step 3: Organizing Your Essay Plan your essay using the following structure:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce both speeches and their contexts. State your thesis about how the speakers use rhetoric to achieve their purposes.
• Body Paragraphs: For each speech, analyze the use of rhetorical appeals and devices. Compare and contrast the speakers’ strategies, providing evidence from the texts.
• Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reflect on the effectiveness of each speech.

Write a thesis statement that clearly compares and contrasts the rhetorical strategies of the two speeches.

Outline your essay, listing the main points you will discuss in each paragraph.

Step 4: Writing the Essay Write your rhetorical analysis essay (approximately 800–1200 words). Use specific evidence from the speeches to support your analysis. Be sure to define and explain rhetorical terms as you use them.

Write your rhetorical analysis essay following your outline. Be sure to include an introduction with a thesis, body paragraphs with evidence and analysis, and a conclusion. Use at least three rhetorical terms (such as ethos, pathos, logos, irony, metaphor, hyperbole, parody, etc.) in your analysis.