LetterToMyNephew11

="Letter to My Nephew" Rhetorical Analysis= Tyler Bell, Jake Sexton, Sean McClure

Establishing the Occasion:
The author probably wrote this to his nephew during times of increased racism and segregation. The author seems very knowledgeable on the subject of racism and makes this letter very personal. He tells his nephew that by being born black that he is a "worthless human being." and that he is not expected to aspire to excellence. This shows that he has some in depth knowledge of the problems that African Americans faced in society at the time. The Ethos in this letter comes as Baldwin seems to present himself as a very intelligent person on this subject. His personality is semi-abrasive but I feel that it's purpose is to get his point across that you shouldn't be ashamed of who you are. Pathos is used by trying to evoke emotion through his writing in specific parts when he talks about how society expects black people to fail when it comes to succeeding or excelling in anything in life. The main message in this letter, the Logos, is simply to be yourself no matter how society looks at you. He tries to tell his nephew that the stereotypes are not true and that he can succeed in life, just like anyone else.

Claim:
There is intense racism and prejudice in society. Stay true to who you are. You can succeed in anything that you want to despite what society tells you.

Evidence:
"You were born into a society which spelled out with brutal clarity, and in as many ways as possible that you were a useless human being. You were not expected to aspire to excellence: you were expected to make peace with mediocrity."

Differing Views:
Baldwin doesn't seem to offer any differing views in his letter. He is very concise, to the point, and close-minded. See paragraph 3: "I hear the chorus of the innocents screaming . . " MSH