United States and Martin Luther King Essay Example

the women's movement, comparing it to horses that are not actually dead but still relevant. She believes that female antagonists can serve as mirrors that reflect more than just physical beauty - they can be explorations of moral freedom. This use of simile highlights societal stereotypes of women and demonstrates their progress towards moral freedom.

The role of women in society and gender equality are significant subjects that are still relevant today. Martin Luther King Jr's speech "I Have a Dream" was delivered in 1963 during the peak of the Black civil rights movement in the United States. The speech portrays the marginalized African Americans' aspirations for freedom and racial equality in a positive, optimistic, and nonviolent manner. This universal idea of freedom and equality resonated with individuals worldwide who were facing racial challenges, such as the Aboriginal rights movement in Australia. King's speech challenged the perceptions of both white American society and Malcolm X's pro-violence stance towards African Americans. It is worth noting that, similarly to Atwood, King's speech also provoked a negative reaction from "the other." Racism remains a pressing issue in today's world, and the values of freedom, equality, and justice are still highly revered in our post-modern society as part of our liberal and democratic traditions. "I Have a Dream" holds merit as King employs various rhetorical techniques to effectively address universal issues.

King uses an economic metaphor and religious terminology to engage his audience and appeal to their sense of righteousness and equality. By referring to the marginalisation in American society as insufficient funds on a check, he highlights the ongoing injustices. The religious phrase "God's children" unites everyone as equal under

God, creating awareness of the sinful nature of racist attitudes. King balances despair and rage with optimism, proposing freedom and racial justice as the answer. Through juxtaposition of the "heat of injustice and oppression" with the "oasis of freedom and justice," he evokes empathy and gives hope that the audience can initiate change and freedom for the marginalized.The speech by King is worthy due to the way he delivered it, transitioning from a despairing tone when discussing poverty to a more intense tone when urging people to rise up in support of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence's famous phrase declaring equality among all men. This created a sense of urgency for immediate action to correct past injustices. King's speech is universally resonant in the context of the civil rights movement and remains relevant today, highlighting issues such as racial inequality and the importance of freedom. Similarly, Atwood's speech also resonates with audiences both in her era, during the feminist movement, and in today's society where the role of women is still valued. Atwood provides insightful and engaging commentary on the portrayal of women in fiction, making her speech both entertaining and informative.

Both texts, considered 'worthy', challenge our perceptions of the 'other' in today's post-modern and fragmented world.