Analysis
Here are the elements which will help you with your analysis of Bill Clinton’s “I Have Sinned” speech.
The rhetorical situation is that the speaker is Bill Clinton, the 42nd president of the United States. He delivers his speech during the White House prayer breakfast in front of an audience that consists of his family, friends, members of staff, and guests.
The composition of Bill Clinton’s speech can be split into five parts, depending on the topics Clinton addresses.
Clinton’s style of language is mainly formal, as he addresses a serious topic. Clinton introduces figurative language at times, which adds an emotional component to his speech.
Some of the rhetorical devices used by Clinton in his speech are allusions, direct address, and repetition. All rhetorical devices help Clinton engage the audience and show that forgiving him is in the best interest of the nation.
When it comes to forms of appeal, Clinton mainly uses pathos, which helps him connect with the audience at an emotional level. He also uses ethos, which makes him appear more competent and makes his message more powerful.
You can read a full analysis of the speech on the following pages.
