Question

Which rhetorical device is most prominent in this excerpt from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address?

So let us begin anew—remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.

Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.

Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms—and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations.

Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths, and encourage the arts and commerce.

Let both sides unite to heed in all corners of the earth the command of Isaiah—to "undo the heavy burdens . . . and to let the oppressed go free.”

metaphor
repetition
hyperbole
hypophora

Answer 1

B. Repetition

The rhetorical device most prominent as we can see with in the first words of sentences is the repetitive use of “let both sides.”  The specific type of repetition here is known as anaphora, which is the repetition of a word (or in this case words) at the beginning of line/verse/sentence.  That said, repetition is quite the effective literary device when the desired effect is to emphasize in order to highlight importance.

Answer 2

Answer: B. Repetition.

 The rhetorical device most proeminent in this excerpt from John F. Kennedy's inaugural address is repetition, as seen in the frequent use of the the word 'Let' (expressing a wish) at the beginning of every paragraph (Anaphora). This literary device, Repetition, helps writers or speakers to put emphasis on words or ideas they consider important.