Rhetorical Analysis: We Can Do It

Building Supporters by Advertisements
When persuasion acts in an argument, images become considerably beneficial in many aspects. Persuasion and manipulation position as two words often misconstrued in society. A fine line separates these two as effective composition strategies. If written inaccurately, the audience will uncover a level of manipulation in the advertisement and immediately display indifference toward the topic. Appearances denote a powerful interpretation and can maintain the simplicity and comprehension of the illustrator’s desired points while incorporated with appropriate rhetorical devices. The image “We Can Do It” utilizes pathos and ethos to encourage and persuade women to work in World War II and challenge their rightful
It contains a bright yellow background and has a dominant yet beautiful woman in dark blue work attire to capture the viewers’ attention. This image maintains the appearance of active, able, and formidable women in this generation, and directly inspires women to live up to this expectation. The overall representation preserves the awareness of beauty along with masculinity, which supports the idea that success accumulates from these qualities in order for women to flourish in the workforce. The image originated from a poster created by J. Howard Miller for Westinghouse Co. in the struggles of WWII. This exercises ethos and evokes a substantial amount of credibility as well as trustworthiness through the depiction of Rosie the Riveter and the authority of the company that advertised it. Consequently, this source may not always convey reliability. In WWII, Westinghouse Co. positioned as one of many companies in contest for the service of women. Comparison in the decision of the most reliable, trustworthy company can ultimately build or destroy ethos in this image. Certain individuals may have alternate beliefs as well as the validity of the representation of Rosie. Absence of the name “Rosie” in the advertisement can potentially damage the intended solidity of this
This energetically and assertively stated piece of dialogue comes from the woman herself. The context connects to the female audience on a prideful level which demonstrates emotional appeals to challenge the viewer to think about their physical and emotional strength, as well as the male participants in the war. Pathos integrates into the image to stimulate an emotional response and confront the viewers’ fundamental values. The style maintains persuasion and directly pursues women in an attempt to reinforce their inclination to work in place of their husbands or loved ones. This impression comes from the bold use of the word “We” in the text, which encourages the confidence of women to participate and become conformists. However, the interpretation of the image may vary. A man in society in 1942 may consider this image as an insult. The nature of men to strive as well as become the dominant provider, fighter, and alpha in the home can cause the perception of shame in the image. Women’s expectations to care for and manage children in the home dominated popular belief. Many women may have felt that this advertisement stepped over their boundaries and abilities as individuals. Once society places a stereotype upon a certain group, a change in title becomes strenuous to