Analysis of Pathos

Bigelow’s language choices appeal to the audience’s humanity evoking an emotional response from readers. Bigelow uses powerful words like “cowardly brutality” in kick-starting his article, captivating readers from the beginning and provoking feelings of sympathy/empathy for those who suffered the described occurrences. Because a large part of his audience was “decent white people”, meaning that although they were silent did not necessarily agree with segregation, persuasion through an emotional approach was tactful. In detailing one of the more tragic and deadly acts committed against the Freedom Riders (The Bus burning), and emphasizing the peaceful ways of the Freedom Riders, Bigelow stresses how undeserved and degrading such acts were. He brings readers to the level of those who violently suffered, clearly establishing that these people, just like readers, were human as well. By placing his audience in the shoes of African Americans and those who advocated for their rights Bigelow led readers to feel a responsibility as humans to leave their silence and act.