"Letter from a Birmingham Jail [King Jr.]"

Situation/Issues

• Support from the church
• In jail because of a peaceful protest/nonviolent
• Church publicly criticized him
• Upset at inaction
• Segregation
  

Who is the intended audience?

• Church
• Public Officials
• Critics
• Clergy men
• White Moderate/Fence Riders
  
• Segregationists
• Oppressed

Whats his message?

• Peace, Brotherhood
• Equal Rights
• Disgusted w/clergymen and Church (inaction, criticism)
  
• Rare to find justice in the world

Purpose

• Call to Action
• Warning
• Persuade
• To explain/inform

Persona/How does he communicate his message?

• Frustrated/Angry
• Formal Letter
• Doesn't lose his composure
• Humble/Polite
• Forgiving/Apologetic
• Cordial

Why was he successful?

• Clear, effective communication
• Composed throughout/kept control over his emotions
• Sound arguments
• Explores both sides of the argument
• Honest
• Intellect
• Appealed to his audience (emotions before logic)
• Organization of the letter