On March 16, 2011, Emperor Akihito delivered his first-ever televised speech to the nation following the Tohoku earthquake and its aftermath. Though the speech came as a surprise to the Japanese population, Akihito used this opportunity to address the current state of the nation. Speaking not only as the figurehead of Japan, but as a fellow citizen, Akihito inspires, encourages, and thanks the Japanese people, as well as people around the world helping the relief efforts, by discussing humanity, hope, and resilience.
Akihito's first few statements are a report of the events that have come to pass, quickly followed by his sympathies and prayers. By maintaining that he is "deeply hurt by the miserable situation," Akihito establishes empathy with the audience, speaking to those affected by the earthquake as a citizen who is just as emotionally devastated as those affected by the
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This shift is prominent when Akihito says that he is "deeply impressed by the courageousness of people who have survived the disaster." By characterizing the victims as courageous survivors instead of weak victims who need help, Akihito praises the resilience of the Japanese people to the world. The emperor also issues a call to action, which is "that by making the greatest effort possible to rescue the victims promptly we can improve their lives as much as possible." He is motivating those who are able to help the courageous survivors of the quake and its aftermath, who have already done enough to help themselves. He ties his plea for aid into the theme of compassion at the end of the speech by stating that he hopes everyone can "continue working together, helping and being considerate of one