A Rhetorical Analysis Of William Chamberlain's Why We Fight

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In Chamberlain's speech, "Why we Fight," Chamberlain utilized many rhetorical devices but pathos is the most powerful appeal due to the fact that it reminded the mutineers of the pride, hope, and fear of join the army into war. The mutineers who are exhausted are wanting to give up the fight because they did not see the possibility of winning the war. Chamberlain reminded the people of what they did so far and brings out their pride through his statement believing that, "we are an army out to set others free (Chamberlain 11)." Chamberlain's description of the army that the mutineers were in made them feel their importance in forming a free country. This becomes a moral boost which makes them truly believe that joining the army for a greater …show more content…

Chamberlain concluded his speech by sadly uttering, “I think if we lose this fight, we lose the war (Chamberlain 25).” This statement clearly stated that the Union is pushed to absolute limit and that the very next fight would be the last chance to make a difference. It is logical for the mutineers to flee but the power and strength that was gained from Chamberlain’s speech gave them the courage to overcome the fear that Chamberlain purposely gave in the end. Even though ethos had been used in the speech, “Why we Fight,” it is not as effective as pathos. For example, Chamberlain told the mutineers that he is from Maine and he has seen men die just like them. This appeal only creates a stronger bond which does not influence the mutineers to join the Unions and fight for freedom. On the other hand, pathos is the fastest way to influence others which was perfect for the setting during the speech because Chamberlain had a very limited amount of time to influence the mutineers. Chamberlain brought attention to the desperate need of men in the army and encouraged men to join; with each other he believed that they can make a change to the war and create a free