A Critical Discourse Analysis of Martin Luther King's Speech, I Have a Dream. A Socio-Political Prospective

Abstract: This study examines the transformative effects of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech on societal changes. The analysis delves into how the speech catalyzed the civil rights movement by scrutinizing its key rhetorical strategies and King’s adept use of ethos, pathos, and logos to engage and persuade his audience. Delivered during the 1963 March on Washington, the speech stands as a significant moment in American history, encapsulating King’s vision of racial equality and justice in the United States. Employing a critical discourse analysis, this study explores the speech’s immediate impact on listeners, its role in spurring action, and its enduring influence on modern social justice movements both in the USA and globally. The results highlight the powerful role language plays in societal change and affirm the continuing relevance of King’s messages of hope and equality. Keywords: Rhetoric, Ethos, Pathos, Logos, Equality