Analyzing a Speech
Speech analysis is a critical skill for understanding political and cultural discourse. This section outlines the key steps for conducting a thorough speech analysis.
Identifying the Speaker's Objective
Begin by determining the main purpose of the speech. Is it to inform, persuade, or inspire the audience?
Structure of the Analysis
Introduction
Start your analysis by stating your intention:
"In the following, the speech will be analyzed in terms of..."
Main Body
Conduct a chronological analysis of the speech, focusing on:
- Key arguments and ideas presented
- Rhetorical devices used by the speaker
Definition: Rhetorical devices are techniques used in writing or speech to convey meaning, persuade, or evoke emotion in the audience.
When discussing rhetorical devices:
- Name the device
- Explain its function in the speech
- Provide specific line references from the text
Example: The speaker uses anaphora, repeating "I have a dream" at the beginning of several consecutive sentences, to emphasize the vision of equality and reinforce the message in the audience's mind.
Conclusion
Summarize your findings in relation to the task, highlighting the most significant aspects of the speech and their overall effect.
Highlight: Pay attention to the context of the speech, including the speaker's background, the audience, and the historical or political circumstances surrounding the event.
