Abolitionist Rhetoric

What is rhetoric?

• The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the use of figures of speech and other compositional techniques.

• The study of historical events and their impact on modern society.

• • The process of logical reasoning to reach a conclusion.

• The scientific study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.

Which of these would be the best use of ethos to persuade?

• Including graphs and charts

• Quoting an expert on the subject

• Telling a joke

• Telling a sad story

"You'll make the right decision because you have something that not many people do: you have heart."

• logos

• pathos

• ethos

"Ladies and gentlemen of the jury: we have not only the fingerprints, the lack of an alibi, a clear motive, and an expressed desire to commit the robbery… We also have video of the suspect breaking in. The case could not be more open and shut."

• Logos

• Pathos

• Ethos

What is Abolitionist Rhetoric?

• The use of language and arguments to promote the continuation of slavery.

• A type of political speech that supports the establishment of new colonies.

• The use of language and arguments aimed at ending slavery and promoting freedom for enslaved individuals.

• A style of communication that advocates for the reduction of tariffs and trade barriers.

Who is this?

• Frederick Douglass

• Henry Highland Garnet

• David Walker

• Olaudah Equiano

What is "The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano" about?

• The biography of a British naval officer's adventures during the Napoleonic Wars.

• The autobiography of a former enslaved African who detailed his experiences of slavery and his journey to freedom.

• A fictional story about a merchant's life in the Caribbean during the 18th century.

• A scientific exploration of the flora and fauna discovered in Africa by European explorers.

By sharing his personal experiences in The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, Equiano aimed to:

• • Educate the public about the brutal realities of slavery.

• • Demonstrate the humanity and capabilities of enslaved individuals.

• • Persuade readers to support the abolitionist cause.

• All are correct.

Which of the following were rhetoric techniques commonly used in the abolitionist movement?

• Appeals to Christian morality - Invoking religious principles to argue that slavery is morally wrong.

• Economic analyses of slavery - Using financial data to show that slavery was economically beneficial for the slaveholders.

• Glorification of slave owners - Praising the character and actions of slave owners as examples of good citizenship.

• Calls for colonization - Advocating for the establishment of new colonies where freed African Americans could relocate.

Answer explanation

The disparity between Christian teachings and the realities of slavery
"O, ye nominal Christians! might not an African ask you, learned you this from your God, who says unto you, Do unto all men as you would men should do unto you? Is it not enough that we are torn from our country and friends to toil for your luxury and lust of gain? Must every tender feeling be likewise sacrificed to your avarice? Are the dearest friends and relations, now rendered more dear by their separation from their kindred, still to be parted from each other, and thus prevented from cheering the gloom of slavery with the small comfort of being together and mingling their suf erings and sorrows?"

Which of the following is a rhetoric technique utilized logos?

• Legal and Philosophical Arguments: They frequently referenced the ideals of liberty and equality enshrined in founding documents like the Declaration of Independence.

• Moral and Religious Arguments: Abolitionists often framed slavery as morally wrong and contrary to religious principles, appealing to the conscience of their audience.

• Personal Narratives: Abolitionists often shared personal stories of the hardships and brutalities faced by enslaved individuals to evoke empathy and outrage.

• Imagery and Descriptions: Vivid, graphic descriptions of the cruelties of slavery were used to elicit emotional responses from readers or listeners.