How To Write A Rhetorical Analysis Of George W. Bush 9/11 Speech

Even though I wasn’t alive during the September 11 attacks of 2001, my mother was willing to share her experience with me. She states, “I had my in-home daycare and was actually watching The Today Show and saw the whole thing as it happened. So unbelievably sad to watch.” The same day of 9/11, George W. Bush gives his speech “9/11 Address to the Nation.” In his speech, George W. Bush informs the audience about the attacks on the Twin Towers, reassures them, and explains the next steps to help with the situation. The main point Bush wants to make in his speech is that America is strong enough to get past the 9/11 attacks. By talking in a convincing tone and using powerful words while explaining to Americans about the 9/11 attack and the next steps for the United States, George W. Bush presents an effective speech.

Bush effectively incorporates pathos into his speech to persuade the audience. For example, when he informs the American people about terrorists attacking the Twin Towers, George W. Bush states, “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundation of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve” (Bush). This evidence is effectively persuasive because, throughout his speech, George W. Bush causes the audience to feel empowered. Even just by reading his speech, the words he uses make the audience feel hopeful and confident about the future of America after the 9/11 attacks. Overall, Bush’s use of pathos in his speech is effective in persuading the audience. Next, the organization of George W. Bush’s speech successfully persuaded the audience. For instance, when he presents his speech, Bush first explains what has happened to the Twin Towers, then he reassures the viewers by stating the reasons why America will overcome 9/11, and finally communicates the steps to overcome the event