Syntax, Rhetoric, Thanksgiving, and JFK

Today you'll start by browsing through the blogs of other people in the class.  You'll find links to them all on the Home page of the class blog.  Read their entry about Thanksgiving, and feel free to leave a comment afterwards.

Then, we'll shift our attention to look at the ways in which syntax and rhetorical devices play a role in yet another political speech - this time, we'll examine John F. Kennedy's inauguration speech from 1961.

First, read the introduction to the speech on the first page of this document.

Then, we'll listen to the speech while you follow along. Here is a link to a video of it.

Next, download this document which lists a variety of different rhetorical devices JFK uses in his speech.  Spend some time completing it, listing at least one example for each category.

Next you'll look at this document to see the changes between the suggestions JFK received from his closest advisors and the final version he delivered.

Lastly, you'll write an analysis of the speech:

• look at the different rhetorical devices he uses
• look at the difference between the suggestions and the final version of the speech
• choose two sections to analyze / explain:
• How does the language Kennedy used in his inauguration speech affect and play a role in the meaning of it?  

Please type out your response and post it to your blog.  I'll read it and give feedback to you there!!