Christy Brown
Soeth
English 3 AP
February 2, 2011

REHUGO Analysis: Historical—Speech

A. Elie Wiesel gives his speech, “The Perils of Indifference,” on April 12, 1999.

B. Elie Wiesel's speech was given to say goodbye to the horrific events of the 20th Century and a hello to the new millennium. The Holocaust victim provides his audience with specific events and occasions that occurred during the time of the Holocaust to support his idea of indifference. The speech was directed towards American citizens, the President, First Lady, Ambassador Holbrooke, members of Congress, and friends.

C. As Wiesel said, "in a way, to be indifferent to that suffering is what makes the human being inhuman. Indifference, after all, is more dangerous than anger and hatred." One who is indifferent also shows signs of apathy. Within anger, there may be some sort of emotion behind that, where within indifference there is not. The amount of indifference in today’s society is nearly unbearable. In paragraph 21, Wiesel asks "Have we really learned from our experiences?" Although his response may be yes, the country does not fulfill these expectations. Since it is so much easier to ignore the constant, unjust happenings in today's society, no one gives it the full attention that is very much needed. Wiesel yearns for the day when agony and suffering are no longer present in today's society. He challenges his audience to put an end to indifference forever.

D. Rhetorical Strategies:

• Allusions: Wiesel alludes to many historical events. By the references to such events like World War I, World War II, several Civil wars, Hiroshima bombing, and the assassinations of numerous historical figures, he is exemplifying his idea of indifference.

• Rhetorical Questions: Wiesel's consistent use of rhetorical questions, such as “What are its courses and incapable consequences? Is it a philosophy? Is there a philosophy of indifference conceivable? Can one possibly view indifference as a virtue? Is it necessary at times to practice it simply to keep one's sanity, love normally, and enjoy a fine meal and a glass of wine, as the world around us experiences harrowing upheavals?, " keeps his audience's mental participation active and encourages them to act upon his argument.

MLA Citation:
Wiesel, Elie. "American Rhetoric: Elie Wiesel - The Perils of Indifference." American Rhetoric: The Power of Oratory in the United States. 12 Apr. 1999. Web. 02 Feb. 2011. .