Surrender Speech - Chief Joseph

Question 1

What is the genre of the speech?

Answer 1

Political speech/Historical document/Formal rhetoric

The speech addresses the injustices faced by Native Americans.

Question 2

What is the purpose of the speech?

Answer 2

Plea for justice and recognition of Native American suffering, Explain surrender

Question 3

Who is the intended audience of the speech?

Answer 3

American government officials, general public/american natives, political audiences in Washington

The speech is aimed at both the general public and specific political figures.

Question 4

Describe the narrative style of the speech.

Answer 4

Simple yet emotive narrative style

The narrative is designed to resonate emotionally with the audience.

Question 5

Lexis and semantics

Answer 5

Semantic field of loss/suffering (“dead,” “cold,” “sick,” “killed”) juxtaposes violence with human dignity

This language highlights the experiences and hardships faced by Native Americans.

Question 6

What grammatical features are notable in the speech?

Answer 6

Mostly simple, declarative clauses; repetition for emphasis; modal verbs (“must,” “will”) for determination and resignation

These features contribute to the clarity and emotional weight of the speech.

Question 7

What spoken features characterise the speech?

Answer 7

Formal speech conventions; slight oral style in phrasing (“It is cold, and we have no blankets”)

The phrasing reflects the speaker’s personal experience and urgency.

Question 8

What tone is conveyed in the speech?

Answer 8

Dignified, sorrowful, persuasive, restrained anger

The tone is crafted to evoke empathy and understanding from the audience.

Question 9

What is the historical context of the speech?

Answer 9

1877 Nez Perce War aftermath, tribe known for resistance against US, Joseph’s status as respected leader, sent letters constantly asking for rights but were ignored

This context is crucial for understanding the significance of the speech.