In order to have a compelling speech, one must utilize the use of pathos, ethos, and logos. In his second inaugural address, Obama uses all three of these in a very effective way considering his situation. Being his second term in office it would be unnecessary to rely on the use of ethos or logos, considering they already know his plan for office and his credibility level. Obama’s heavy dependence on pathos seems like an intelligent choice. Although, Obama did not completely remove the use of ethos and logos. In fact, in the places Obama used these devices they were very effective. Obama’s excessive use of pathos throughout his second inaugural address does not override its effectiveness, nor does it take away from the efficiency of his use of ethos and logos to inform the country of his plans during presidency. The …show more content…
The use of pathos can be found in every segment of his address. In the beginning of his address, Obama’s use of pathos is apparent when he discusses our nation's togetherness when disaster strikes, how we can all relate to pride in our troops, and a recognition to the hard working middle and lower class. A major part where pathos is used when discussing our reaction to tragedies, “Together, we resolved that a great nation must care for the vulnerable, and protect its people from life’s worst hazards and misfortune,” (Obama 2). Use of pathos is also apparent in the middle of his speech when he discusses children in poverty, equality, and a longing for freedom. When Obama discusses equality, it it something very American can relate to, “... for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well,” (Obama 4). Any American can relate the the want and