Compromise of 1850

In his speech, Clay attempts to build rapport with his listeners to gain their trust and influence their vote on the measure. Analyze the strategies that Clay uses to build that rapport. Identify at least three rhetorical appeals or literary devices and explain how they help the orator connect with his audience.

Clay’s speech, given at a significant time and place in history, is inseparable from its context. Analyze how the historical context influenced Clay’s choices about how to structure his speech as well as what symbols and themes to lean on in making his points. Consider the position of men in society and the dominant religion at the time.

Clay strives to tempt his audience toward voting positively as much as he attempts to discourage them from voting against it. What rewards does Clay suggest a positive vote may yield? How do those rewards contrast with the consequences of a negative vote?