In Congress, July 4 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
Engrossed Declaration of Independence Circa 1776 - image courtesy of the National Archives |
Rhetorical Criticism of The Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence, drafted by Thomas Jefferson in 1776, is not only a seminal political document but also a masterful rhetorical composition. Jefferson’s ability to craft persuasive and enduring prose is rooted in his use of classical rhetorical strategies and a range of figures of speech that enhance its emotional, logical, and ethical appeal. Below is a rhetorical criticism that examines Jefferson's stylistic choices and rhetorical devices within the Declaration.
Overview of the Declaration's Structure
The Declaration of Independence is structured in four parts:
- The Introduction: Establishes the necessity of explaining the reasons for separation.
- The Preamble: Articulates philosophical principles, notably the self-evident truths of equality and inalienable rights.
- The Grievances: Lists specific complaints against King George III, supporting the argument for independence.
- The Conclusion: Declares the colonies' independence and asserts their sovereignty.
Each section employs distinct rhetorical strategies to build a cohesive and compelling argument for breaking ties with Britain.
Figures of Speech and Rhetorical Devices in the Declaration
1. Parallelism
Jefferson’s use of parallel structure is perhaps the most prominent rhetorical feature of the Declaration. It creates rhythm, reinforces key ideas, and enhances the document’s persuasiveness.
Example:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
The repetition of "that" introduces parallel clauses, lending the statement a formal and balanced cadence that underscores its universal significance.
2. Anaphora
The repetition of phrases at the beginning of successive clauses emphasizes the colonists' grievances and highlights the systematic nature of British tyranny.
Example:
"He has refused... He has forbidden... He has dissolved..."
The repeated use of "He has" in the list of grievances directs blame squarely at King George III, creating a cumulative effect that portrays him as a tyrant.
3. Alliteration
Alliteration enhances the musicality and memorability of Jefferson's prose.
Example:
"...life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
The repetition of the "l" sound adds a lyrical quality, reinforcing the enduring resonance of these ideals.
4. Antithesis
Jefferson often employs antithesis to contrast opposing ideas, underscoring the moral dichotomy between the colonies and Britain.
Example:
"Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes."
The contrast between "long established" and "light and transient" underscores the gravity of the colonists' decision to seek independence.
5. Ethos, Pathos, and Logos
Jefferson seamlessly integrates Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals:
Ethos (Credibility): Jefferson establishes the colonies' moral authority by framing their decision as based on reason and necessity:
“A decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.”
Pathos (Emotion): Emotional appeals abound, especially in the grievances, where Jefferson describes British actions as “absolute Despotism,” “oppressions,” and “injuries.”
"...unfit to be the ruler of a free people."
Logos (Logic): Jefferson’s logical appeals are evident in the systematic enumeration of grievances, each designed to justify the colonies’ decision.
6. Metaphor
While sparingly used, Jefferson incorporates metaphor to make abstract ideas more vivid.
Example:
"...the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them..."
The metaphorical reference to the “Laws of Nature” imbues the argument with a sense of inevitability and divine sanction.
7. Hyperbole
Jefferson uses hyperbolic language to emphasize the extent of British injustices.
Example:
“...all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States.”
The term “absolute Tyranny” amplifies the perceived threat of British rule.
8. Synecdoche
Jefferson uses synecdoche by substituting parts for wholes, emphasizing collective identity and shared responsibility.
Example:
"We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us."
"Legislature" represents the British government as a whole.
9. Asyndeton
The deliberate omission of conjunctions in lists conveys urgency and force.
Example:
"We mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
The lack of conjunctions emphasizes the gravity and solemnity of the pledge.
10. Causal and Conditional Clauses
Jefferson incorporates causal and conditional constructions to establish logical connections and justifications.
Example:
"But when a long train of abuses and usurpations... evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government."
These clauses build a rational argument for rebellion, aligning it with natural law.
Stylistic and Persuasive Impact
Jefferson’s eloquent prose combines rational argumentation with emotionally charged language. His use of classical rhetorical devices imbues the Declaration with a timeless quality, allowing it to resonate across generations. The document achieves its purpose by:
- Creating Unity: The inclusive "we" reinforces a collective colonial identity.
- Establishing Moral Authority: Appeals to natural law and divine justice strengthen the ethical foundation of the colonies’ cause.
- Generating Momentum: Repetition and rhythm propel the argument, creating a sense of inevitability.
- Undermining the Opponent: The direct indictment of King George III personalizes the grievances, channeling colonial anger.
Conclusion
The Declaration of Independence remains a rhetorical masterpiece, blending philosophical depth with persuasive artistry. Through his deft use of figures of speech, Thomas Jefferson constructs a powerful argument that transcends the immediate context of 1776. By combining logical rigor with emotional resonance, the Declaration not only justified the colonies’ bid for independence but also inspired future generations to strive for liberty and equality. Its rhetorical elegance ensures its enduring status as one of history’s most iconic texts.
For students and teachers of U.S. history, this video features Stanley and Christopher Klos presenting America's Four United Republics Curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Filmed in December 2015, this video is an informal recording by an audience member capturing a presentation attended by approximately 200 students, professors, and guests. To explore the full curriculum, [download it here].
September 5, 1774 | October 22, 1774 | |
October 22, 1774 | October 26, 1774 | |
May 20, 1775 | May 24, 1775 | |
May 25, 1775 | July 1, 1776 |
July 2, 1776 to February 28, 1781
July 2, 1776 | October 29, 1777 | |
November 1, 1777 | December 9, 1778 | |
December 10, 1778 | September 28, 1779 | |
September 29, 1779 | February 28, 1781 |
March 1, 1781 to March 3, 1789
March 1, 1781 | July 6, 1781 | |
July 10, 1781 | Declined Office | |
July 10, 1781 | November 4, 1781 | |
November 5, 1781 | November 3, 1782 | |
November 4, 1782 | November 2, 1783 | |
November 3, 1783 | June 3, 1784 | |
November 30, 1784 | November 22, 1785 | |
November 23, 1785 | June 5, 1786 | |
June 6, 1786 | February 1, 1787 | |
February 2, 1787 | January 21, 1788 | |
January 22, 1788 | January 21, 1789 |
Commander-in-Chief United States of America
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions
USCA | Session Dates | USCA Convene Date | President(s) |
First | 03-01-1781 to 11-04-1781* | 03-02-1781 | |
Second | 11-05-1781 to 11-03-1782 | 11-05-1781 | |
Third | 11-04-1782 to 11-02-1783 | 11-04-1782 | |
Fourth | 11-03-1783 to 10-31-1784 | 11-03-1783 | |
Fifth | 11-01-1784 to 11-06-1785 | 11-29-1784 | |
Sixth | 11-07-1785 to 11-05-1786 | 11-23-1785 | |
Seventh | 11-06-1786 to 11-04-1787 | 02-02-1787 | |
Eighth | 11-05-1787 to 11-02-1788 | 01-21-1788 | |
Ninth | 11-03-1788 to 03-03-1789** | None | None |
* The Articles of Confederation was ratified by the mandated 13th State on February 2, 1781, and the dated adopted by the Continental Congress to commence the new United States in Congress Assembled government was March 1, 1781. The USCA convened under the Articles of Confederation Constitution on March 2, 1781.** On September 14, 1788, the Eighth United States in Congress Assembled resolved that March 4th, 1789, would be commencement date of the Constitution of 1787's federal government thus dissolving the USCA on March 3rd, 1789.
Philadelphia | Sept. 5, 1774 to Oct. 24, 1774 | |
Philadelphia | May 10, 1775 to Dec. 12, 1776 | |
Baltimore | Dec. 20, 1776 to Feb. 27, 1777 | |
Philadelphia | March 4, 1777 to Sept. 18, 1777 | |
Lancaster | September 27, 1777 | |
York | Sept. 30, 1777 to June 27, 1778 | |
Philadelphia | July 2, 1778 to June 21, 1783 | |
Princeton | June 30, 1783 to Nov. 4, 1783 | |
Annapolis | Nov. 26, 1783 to Aug. 19, 1784 | |
Trenton | Nov. 1, 1784 to Dec. 24, 1784 | |
New York City | Jan. 11, 1785 to Nov. 13, 1788 | |
New York City | October 6, 1788 to March 3,1789 | |
New York City | March 3,1789 to August 12, 1790 | |
Philadelphia | Dec. 6,1790 to May 14, 1800 | |
Washington DC | November 17,1800 to Present |
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