The Declaration of Independence

Anaphora

A specific type of repetition; sentence structure using repetition of a word or phrase at the BEGINNING of successive phrases, clauses, or lines

Conditional Statement (also known as an If Then Statement)

A conditional statement is an if-then statement and consists of two parts, an antecedent and a consequent. "If you studied hard, then you will pass the test." Conditional statements are often used as premises in an argument: Premise: If I eat Spam, then I will throw up. (conditional) Premise: I have eaten Spam. Conclusion: Ergo, I will throw up.

Concession

A type pf counterclaim; accepting at least part or all of an opposing viewpoint. Often used to make one's own argument stronger by demonstrating that one is willing to accept what is obviously true and reasonable, even if it is presented by the opposition. Sometimes also called multiple perspectives because the author is accepting more than one position as true. Sometimes a concession is immediately followed by a rebuttal of the concession.

Inductive Reasoning/Argument

Inductive reasoning is the opposite of deductive reasoning. A type of logic in which broad generalizations are based on a large number of specific observations. Basically, there is data, then conclusions are drawn from the data. Usually, this type of reasoning is used to form a hypothesis for future study through deductive reasoning.

Religious Allusion

References to the Bible/mythology/other religious texts

cumulative/loose sentence

When the main idea is not completed until the end of the sentence. The writer begins with subordinate elements and postpones the main clause. "His confidence broken, his limbs shaking, his collar wet with perspiration, he doubted whether he could ever again appear before an audience." The opposite construction is called a periodic sentence.

periodic sentence

When the writer begins with an independent clause, then adds subordinate elements. "He doubted whether he could ever again appear before an audience, his confidence broken, his limbs shaking, his collar wet with perspiration." The opposite construction is called a periodic sentence. (The claim is supported immediately and closely with evidence to strengthen the claim)

Audience(s)

direct audience (King George), peripheral (British brethren; potential allies and enemies)

Deductive Reasoning/Argument

reasoning in which a conclusion is reached by stating a general principle and then applying that principle to a specific case (The sun rises every morning; therefore, the sun will rise on Tuesday morning.)

Parallel structure (parallelism)

repetition of the same pattern of words or phrases within a sentence or passage to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.

Connotative diction - vilifying verbs

slanderous and abusive statements against King George . . . examples: He has REFUSED, He has DISSOLVED.

Connotative Diction (general definition)

words chosen deliberately for the feelings and attitudes associated with them. For example, in the Declaration of Independence King George's character is described using vilifying verbs in the list of grievances.