ABSTRACT
This research project presents a Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, examining its rhetorical strategies, thematic elements, and socio-historical context. Utilizing Fairclough’s CDA framework, the study explores how King's masterful use of language and rhetorical devices such as repetition, parallelism, and metaphor effectively conveyed his vision of racial equality and social justice. By situating the speech within the broader landscape of the Civil Rights Movement, this research highlights the systemic racial segregation and discrimination prevalent in American society during the 1960s and King's pivotal role in advocating for nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience.
The analysis delves into the public reception and immediate impact of the speech, as well as its enduring legacy in shaping political discourse and legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Furthermore, the study examines the global influence of King's message, inspiring movements for decolonization, human rights, and social justice worldwide.
Through a detailed examination of the speech's discourse structure, power dynamics, and ideological underpinnings, this research underscores the significance of King's oratory in mobilizing collective action and advancing the cause of equality. The findings illuminate the speech's continued relevance in contemporary discussions on race, identity, and social justice, emphasizing the transformative power of language in challenging oppression and fostering inclusive societies. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive analysis of one of the most iconic speeches in history, offering insights into its rhetorical brilliance and its profound impact on the fight for civil rights.
