Saturday, October 18, 2008



This piece is called "The Curse of Poverty" and I believe the argument is a call to action; to realize that poverty is a problem and needs to be addressed.

Audience: The audience would be Americans who feel a duty to aid in the fight against poverty.

Ethos: The painter uses ethos by using Martin Luther King Jr. as one of the main parts of the painting. Since he is such a well known person, people will recognize him and relate to him and his history. Also, the text in this piece are quotes and phrases from King himself. It is using his face, accompanied by his image. I believe these together are powerful. Also, having the text above, in a cloud like shape, symbolizes hopes and dreams, something to aspire to.

Pathos: This painting appeals to one's emotions by evoking a sense of duty. We have a historical figure and his famous words will call us to act. The subject, poverty, is also very emotional and would cause people to stop and listen.

Logos: This ties to ethos and pathos. By using such a famous and respected historical figure, it is logical to read and believe the words painted. The subject of poverty implies suffering and the need for help. Logically, another's suffering requires our help.

Effectiveness: I believe this painting is successful in getting its message across. It is drawing attention to a social problem, uses a famous figure recognizable to Americans, and call for action.

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