Benjamin Banneker Letter
Benjamin Banneker, the son of former slaves, wrote a compelling letter to Thomas Jefferson regarding the issue of slavery. Banneker employs various rhetorical strategies to enhance the effectiveness of his argument. He uses literary allusions, appeals to ethos and pathos, diction, and tone to develop his reasoning against slavery.
To begin with, Banneker uses a historical allusion to prompt Jefferson to reflect on how the people of Britain were under British tyranny. This helps to illustrate how the slaves had no freedom or tranquility. Banneker also uses a nostalgic tone to emphasize Jefferson's understanding of the oppression and hardships the slaves faced. Additionally, biblical allusions are employed to show how freedom is related to God's will. Banneker quotes, "You cannot but acknowledge that the present freedom and tranquility which you enjoy you have mercifully received, and that it is the peculiar blessing of Heaven." This quote demonstrates how freedom is nothing but a merciful gift from God. Banneker utilizes the reference made to the Bible so that Jefferson can realize how fortunate he is and creates a sense of sympathetic tone toward the unjust actions.
Moreover, Banneker appeals to ethos by stating that he was the son of former slaves, which justifies that he has witnessed the adversities in his parents' life as well as his own. He also gains credibility by making references to the Declaration of Independence, making his reasoning more effective. Banneker appeals to pathos through his use of abstract nouns such as freedom, tranquility, kindness, liberty, and happiness, which are used to evoke Jefferson's emotions. The diction is used to manipulate the reader's thoughts by creating a sense of guilt. Banneker compares British tyranny to enslaved African Americans, pointing out that many people from Britain eventually redeem their freedom, while African Americans still continued to live in misery. Banneker uses this comparison to establish sympathy toward the injustice.
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In conclusion, Banneker's use of rhetorical strategies effectively develops his argument against slavery, and his appeals to emotions have created awareness and sensitivity towards the unprivileged. His letter remains a powerful and influential piece of writing.
Benjamin Banneker effectively uses various rhetorical strategies to persuade Thomas Jefferson to address the issue of slavery. One of the key strategies employed by Banneker is the use of different tones throughout the letter. Banneker maintains a highly respectable and formal tone throughout the letter, repeatedly addressing Jefferson as "Sir". This formal tone is further enhanced by Banneker's use of literary allusions to demonstrate his education and credibility.
Moreover, Banneker flatters Jefferson by highlighting the value of liberty and the importance of the Declaration of Independence. He also appeals to pathos by using a sympathetic tone to evoke Jefferson's emotions and create awareness of the hardships that slaves endure. Banneker even references the British Crown to create a sense of nostalgia in Jefferson and to urge him to take action against slavery.
In summary, Banneker's use of various rhetorical strategies, including tone, literary allusions, and appeals to ethos and pathos, effectively persuade Jefferson that slavery cannot continue.
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