Analysis

Part two of the exam assignment for English B HF on December 4th 2018 asks you to write an analytical essay about “Am I not human? A call for criminal justice reform” while focusing on Marlon Peterson’s attitude towards prisoners. You should also include the following analytical terms: speaker, topic, appeal, intention.

Peterson is a former convict who benefited from a rehabilitation program while in prison. He comes across as a skilled speaker who knows how to gain and keep his audience’s attention, and who uses his personal experience to gain credibility and empathy.

In his speech, Peterson explores the topic of criminal justice system in the US. He advocates for rehabilitation programs in prison and for giving convicts a chance to redeem themselves instead of only punishing them.

To communicate his intention of supporting rehabilitation programs for prisoners, the Peterson especially makes use of ethos and pathos to appeal to the audience. 

Overall, Peterson's attitude towards prisoners is a positive one. He is understanding towards the circumstances that led them to commit crimes and believes in their capacity to rehabilitate themselves and reintegrate into society.

You can find advice about analysing Marlon Peterson's TED talk in the next pages.