In the “Letter from Birmingham Jail” there are many examples of the use of Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. Almost the entire letter is filled with examples. King uses frequently the use of Ethos by comparing himself with Biblical figures. This is entirely appropriate considering he is writing to eight white clergymen. He first compares himself with Paul who traveled in effort to spread the gospel and then he compares himself with Christ, both being an “extremist in love” as King would put it. He also establishes Ethos by demonstrating that he is not unreasonable in his efforts. He explains that he and his followers waited for after a community election so they would not interfere with election business. He also explains he is one of the few forces standing between violent actions and “do-nothing-ness” Negroes.
He has a great sense of pathos in this essay as well. Probably the best example is his long paragraph explaining the frustrations of the Negro community such as having to explain to his young children why they are treated differently and why they are often victims of hate. He also expresses the pain he feels when he sees other Negroes treated unjustly, even to the extreme of hanging and murder.
Last but definitely not least is Kings ability to use Logos. The paper is filled with it. He explains the usefulness of Direct Action, and why he feels obligated to strive for his cause. He explains that it doesn’t make sense to punish someone because they were the reason for a crime rather than the criminal. For instance if a man is robbed it doesn’t make sense to arrest him because his ownership of money caused someone to steal…
King uses great Ethos, Pathos, and Logos in this essay to capture his audience and compel, almost insisting, his audience to take action.
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