Rhetoric and Structure in Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms Speech — Quiz
Question 4 • Literature and Composition I
Read the excerpt from Roosevelt’s "Four Freedoms” speech. Since the beginning of our American history, we have been engaged in change—in a perpetual peaceful revolution—a revolution which goes on steadily, quietly adjusting itself to changing conditions—without the concentration camp or the quick-lime in the ditch. The world order which we seek is the cooperation of free countries, working together in a friendly, civilized society. This nation has placed its destiny in the hands and heads and hearts of its millions of free men and women; and its faith in freedom under the guidance of God. Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere. Our support goes to those who struggle to gain those rights or keep them. Our strength is our unity of purpose. To that high concept there can be no end save victory. What were the intended effects of the rhetorical appeals used in this section of Roosevelt’s speech? Choose three correct answers.
Answer
A
to encourage Americans to enlist in the military so as to help fight in the war
B
to persuade Americans that support for the war would ultimately lead to victory
C
to remind Americans that they have always stood and fought for democracy
D
to convince Americans that joining in the war was the absolute right thing to do
E
to describe for Americans the potential dangers of not joining in the war
Explanation
Roosevelt links America’s unity and support for people struggling for human rights to an eventual victory, supporting B. By saying the country has been engaged in change since its beginning and placing its faith in freedom, he reminds listeners of America’s longstanding commitment to democratic ideals, supporting C. His claim that freedom means human rights everywhere presents supporting the struggle as a moral duty, supporting D. The excerpt does not ask people specifically to enlist or describe dangers of staying out of the war.
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