The power of words to evoke lasting emotions is well-demonstrated in the eulogies of great leaders. One such example is Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In this article, we delve into how Kennedy employed repetition and parallelism to drive his message home and create a lasting impact. Join us as we explore the literary devices used in this poignant eulogy, and draw inspiration for crafting your own emotional address.
Are you struggling to write a meaningful eulogy during this difficult time? Our professional eulogy writing service can help you honour your loved one in less than 48 hours, with no additional stress. We help you preserve the legacy of a cherished life, in your time of grief. Find out more →
Table of Contents
Understanding Repetition and Parallelism
Before diving into Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. King, let's first gain an understanding of the two literary devices in question: repetition and parallelism.
Repetition
Repetition is a rhetorical device in which a word or phrase is repeated for emphasis. It can be used to emphasize certain ideas, create a sense of rhythm, and make the message more memorable.
Parallelism
Parallelism is a rhetorical device that involves presenting two or more ideas of equal importance with the same grammatical structure. This device is often used to create balance and harmony, making the speech more persuasive and memorable.
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
With these definitions in mind, let's examine how Robert F. Kennedy used repetition and parallelism in his eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Repetition in Kennedy's Eulogy
Kennedy employed repetition to emphasize his key messages and make them resonate with the audience. Some notable instances are as follows:
- “What we need in the United States…” Kennedy repeated this phrase numerous times, emphasizing that change must begin with individuals and communities, rather than relying solely on the government.
- “Not with violence…” By repeating this phrase, Kennedy highlighted the importance of nonviolent means to achieve change, as advocated by Dr. King.
- “And let us dedicate ourselves…” Kennedy used this repetition to push for commitment from the audience, urging them to dedicate themselves to realizing Dr. King's dream of a more just and equal America.
Parallelism in Kennedy's Eulogy
Parallelism was also a prominent feature of Kennedy's eulogy, used to create balance and harmony. Some examples include:
- “…to tame the savageness of man and make gentle the life of this world.” This parallel construction contrasts the ideas of savageness and gentleness, while reinforcing the need for peace and compassion.
- “…to understand and to comprehend, and replace that violence, that stain of bloodshed…” Kennedy used parallelism to depict the need to replace violence with understanding and compassion.
- “Let us dedicate ourselves to what the Greeks wrote so many years ago…” This parallel construction evokes a sense of timelessness and shared human values, connecting the American civil rights struggle with the wisdom of ancient Greek civilization.
How Does Robert F Kennedy Use Repition And Parallelism In His Eulogy Of Dr. Mlk? Example:
To demonstrate the power of repetition and parallelism, consider the following excerpt from Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:
"What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness, but love and wisdom, and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of justice toward those who still suffer within our country, whether they be white or whether they be black."
In this passage, Kennedy uses both repetition and parallelism to reinforce his message of unity, understanding, and compassion. Note the repetition of "what we need in the United States," as well as the parallel structure contrasting division, hatred, and violence with love, wisdom, and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. MLK?
The eulogy given by Robert F. Kennedy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is significant not only because it paid tribute to the civil rights leader after his assassination in 1968 but also because it served as a unifying and healing speech during a time of great national turmoil and grief. Kennedy's use of rhetorical devices such as repetition and parallelism helped to emphasize the collective mourning and the shared commitment to Dr. King's values and vision for a better society.
What rhetorical devices did Robert F. Kennedy employ in his eulogy for Dr. King?
In his eulogy for Dr. King, Robert F. Kennedy employed several rhetorical devices, but most notably, he used repetition and parallelism to reinforce his message. Repetition involves the use of the same word or phrase multiple times to underline a concept, while parallelism involves using similar structures in consecutive phrases or sentences to create rhythm and make the message more memorable.
How did repetition amplify the message of Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy?
Repetition helped to amplify the message in Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy by making it more powerful and persuasive. By repeatedly referring to Dr. King's life and work, Kennedy underscored the immensity of the loss and the importance of continuing the fallen leader's efforts. It also created a refrain or chorus that listeners could easily remember and resonate with.
What is an example of parallelism from Robert F. Kennedy’s eulogy speech?
An example of parallelism from Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy would be the structure he used when articulating shared aims or values, such as "We must not be blind to our differences—but we also have to recognize that we share common aims, common goals." This use of similar sentence structures emphasizes the unity of purpose despite varied experiences.
What was the tone of Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy speech?
The tone of Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy speech was professional and empathetic. It was designed to touch the hearts of the American people, to bring them together in their grief, and to inspire hope and determination to carry on Dr. King's mission of peace and equality.
How did Robert F. Kennedy address the issue of racial tension in his eulogy?
Robert F. Kennedy addressed racial tensions directly and openly in his eulogy, calling for love, wisdom, and compassion among fellow citizens, and urging the nation to make a dedicated effort to understand and respect one another's differences in order to move forward toward a more just society.
Can repetition be seen as an element of Kennedy's unique speaking style?
Yes, repetition is one of the elements that characterized Robert F. Kennedy's unique public speaking style. It imbues his speeches with a rhythmic quality and makes his key points more captivating and memorable to his audience.
What was the overall message of Robert F. Kennedy’s eulogy?
The overall message of Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. King was a call to continue the pursuit of justice and equitable society, and to do so through peaceful means. Kennedy implored the nation to honor Dr. King's memory by upholding his principles and working towards the realization of his dream.
Did Robert F. Kennedy’s eulogy have a lasting impact?
Yes, Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy had a lasting impact as it is remembered and referenced as a poignant example of public mourning and solidarity. It remains a powerful expression of empathy and social commitment in American history.
How did Kennedy's eulogy reflect his own values?
Kennedy's eulogy strongly reflected his own values of justice, equality, and non-violence, echoing the priorities of his political life and campaign. These values intersected significantly with Dr. King's, marking Kennedy's speech as both a tribute and a personal call to action.
Was the device of parallelism effectively used by Kennedy to convey solidarity?
Yes, the device of parallelism was effectively used by Kennedy to convey solidarity and shared purpose among the diverse audience that was mourning Dr. King's death. It helped to unite his listeners under common ideals and commitment to social justice.
What was the historical context of Robert F. Kennedy’s speech?
The historical context of Robert F. Kennedy's speech was the height of the civil rights movement in 1968, a time of significant social change and upheaval in the United States. The period was marked by racial tensions and struggles for civil rights that put Dr. King's ideals at the forefront of the national dialogue.
Why is the use of repetition and parallelism important in public speaking?
The use of repetition and parallelism is important in public speaking because these devices help to reinforce the speaker's message, making it more impactful and easier for the audience to follow and remember. They provide a rhythm and structure to the speech that engage the listener's attention and emotions.
Is the analysis of Kennedy's use of rhetoric in his eulogy important for understanding his influence?
Yes, analyzing Kennedy's use of rhetoric is important for understanding his influence in shaping public sentiment and discourse. It reveals the thoughtful craft behind his speech and demonstrates how rhetorical skills can be powerful tools in addressing a nation and encouraging change.
Are there educational programs that focus on teaching Kennedy’s rhetorical techniques?
There are educational programs and courses in rhetorical analysis, public speaking, and political communication that study the techniques of influential speakers like Robert F. Kennedy. These programs often analyze famous speeches to teach the essentials of effective communication and leadership.
How does studying Kennedy's eulogy contribute to modern discussions about racial inequality?
Studying Kennedy's eulogy contributes to modern discussions about racial inequality by providing historical context to the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice. It also offers powerful examples of how language and public discourse can promote unity and understanding in the face of division.
What is the legacy of Dr. MLK that Kennedy emphasizes in his eulogy?
In his eulogy, Kennedy emphasized Dr. King's legacy as one of nonviolence, peace, and a tireless struggle for racial equality. Kennedy honored King's commitment to bettering the lives of the disadvantaged and encouraged others to continue his work of advocating for justice and opportunity for all.
How can the teachings from Kennedy's eulogy apply to contemporary society?
The teachings from Kennedy's eulogy can apply to contemporary society in many ways, emphasizing the values of empathy, unity, and persistent advocacy for justice and equity. They serve as poignant reminders that the quest for a harmonious society is ongoing and requires each generation's active participation.
What importance does the eulogy hold for students and scholars of rhetoric?
For students and scholars of rhetoric, the eulogy holds great importance as an exemplary case of persuasive public speaking that used the power of language to comfort, unite, and inspire action. It provides a rich text for analysis in terms of both style and substance.
How might Kennedy's speechwriting techniques be adapted for modern audiences?
Kennedy's speechwriting techniques, such as repetition and parallelism, can easily be adapted for modern audiences to create emphasis, clarity, and engagement. These techniques are timeless in their ability to help speakers connect with their audiences on an emotional level and communicate their messages effectively.
Was Kennedy's delivery as significant as his content in impacting the audience?
Yes, Kennedy's delivery was as significant as his content in impacting the audience. The manner in which he spoke, conveying genuine empathy and a sense of shared loss, was crucial in engaging the audience and imparting the speech’s emotional depth and urgency.
Robert F. Kennedy's eulogy for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a masterful example of how repetition and parallelism can be used to create an impactful and memorable speech. By employing these literary devices, Kennedy ensured that his message resonated with the audience and continues to echo through history. As you reflect on this powerful eulogy, consider how you can use repetition and parallelism to craft an emotional and lasting tribute to your loved one. Explore additional guides on Eulogy Assistant to learn more tips and techniques for creating a heartfelt memorial address. And please, feel free to share this article with anyone who may find it helpful or inspiring.