Forms of appeal

In Kennedy’s "Ich bin ein Berliner" speech,…

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Logos

Kennedy appeals to logos when he tries to convince his audience of the importance of condemning the Communist system. He argues that Communism it is not progressive, is not easy to work with, does not represent the future, and that it stands in the way of freedom:

And there are some who say, in Europe and elsewhere, we can work …

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Ethos

Kennedy builds ethos by talking about the common values shared by people in West Berlin and by Americans. By stating that Americans share the Berliners’ ideal for freedom, Kennedy reinforces the authority of the US and restates the US’ support for West Berlin:

I want to say on behalf of my countrymen who live many miles away on the other side of the Atlantic, …

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Pathos

Kennedy appeals to pathos when he speaks to the feeling of community by referring to Germans having the right to be free: “In 18 years of peace and good faith, this generation of Germans has earned the right to be free, including the right to unite their families and their nation in lasting peace, with good will to all people.” (ll. 53-57)

Kennedy also stirs the feelings of outrage at injustice and desire for freedom when he talks about families being separat…