The Modern Era – Analyzing Speech and Poetry

Task 1
Interpreting Speeches
Listen to President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s speech to Congress on December 8, 1941 (known as the “Day of Infamy Speech” or the “Infamy Speech”) after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. The transcript of the speech is provided here.

Write an analysis of the “Day of Infamy” speech. Pay special attention to factors such as the speaker’s purpose and point of view. Explain Roosevelt’s reasoning, points of emphasis, and his use of rhetoric and tone, as well as how he links ideas.

Use both the written and audio versions of the speech to complete your analysis. You might need to do some additional research into the historical background of the speaker and the speech to complete this activity.
Read about Roosevelt’s excellent communication skills, which helped him become an accomplished orator, and more about his life.