Thomas Jefferson's Use Of Ethos In The Declaration Of Independence

Thomas Jefferson was the author of the Declaration of Independence. In the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson conveys his message about equality of Americans. He starts off by providing clarity to the people about the revolution in a way that directly displays his standing of the argument. Although the document was solely addressed to King George III or The English Parliament during this time, it is a declaration. This means that Jefferson could have directed his argument to anyone because it is also written for the understanding of the people. In order for Thomas Jefferson to convey his message he uses persuasive appeals such as ethos, logos, and pathos which helps him construct a well written passage that also includes literary devices. One of the main components that went into writing the Declaration of Independence was the credible reasons for the argument. Jefferson establishes in the text, sources and events that would appeal to the audience so they could see the evidence behind it. “He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.” This is an example of what Thomas …show more content…
Jefferson begins to start off sentences using “He has”, which addresses what the king did. ”He has plundered our seas, ravage our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.” “He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands” The syntax is repetitive during the list of the king doings but it provided pathos through the sentences. This helps Jefferson to invoke concern and compassion from the readers. By bringing up everything the Colonies have went through and are facing with Great Britain, Thomas hope to inject anger also from the