Question

Closely read “Melinda Gates: Duke Commencement Address” and write a well-developed, text-based response of two to three paragraphs. In your response, identify a central idea in the text and analyze how the author's use of one writing strategy (literary element or literary technique or rhetorical device) develops this central idea. Use strong and thorough evidence from the text to support your analysis. You may open the text in Kami to take notes in the margins as you read. Do not simply summarize the text. Write your response in the space provided.
Guidelines: Be sure to:
Identify a central idea in the text
Analyze how the author's use of one writing strategy (literary element or literary technique or rhetorical device) develops this central idea. Examples include: characterization, conflict, denotation/connotation, metaphor, simile, irony, language use, point-of-view, setting, structure, symbolism, theme, tone, etc.
Use strong and thorough evidence from the text to support your analysis
Organize your ideas in a cohesive and coherent manner
Maintain a formal style of writing
Follow the conventions of standard written English

Answers

Answered by GPT-4o mini
In her commencement address at Duke University, Melinda Gates emphasizes the central idea that true empowerment comes from embracing vulnerability and using it as a strength in the pursuit of change. Throughout her speech, Gates illuminates the transformative power of sharing one's personal story, making the case that vulnerability is a vital catalyst for building authentic connections and driving social change. By weaving her own experiences and challenges into her narrative, she encourages the graduates to recognize that acknowledging their vulnerabilities can lead to greater empathy and understanding, propelling them to make impactful differences in their communities and the world.

One of the key rhetorical devices Gates employs is personal anecdotes, which serve to enhance her message about vulnerability. By recounting her own struggles, particularly in the early stages of her philanthropic journey, she illustrates how confronting her fears and failures ultimately fostered growth and resilience. For example, she discusses her feelings of inadequacy when she first entered the world of global health and philanthropy, stating, “I had to let go of the idea that I had to be perfect to help others.” This moment of honesty not only establishes her credibility but also resonates with the audience, as it invites them to reflect on their own insecurities. Gates’ use of first-person narration also creates a sense of intimacy, allowing listeners to connect with her on a deeper level. By sharing her vulnerabilities, she demonstrates that authenticity can lead to powerful movements for change, ultimately inspiring graduates to find strength in their own stories and to embrace the courage required to effectuate change.

In conclusion, Melinda Gates' commencement address effectively advocates for the idea that vulnerability is a source of strength. Through personal anecdotes that reveal her own challenges, she illustrates how sharing one’s struggles can foster connection and drive social impact. This approach not only underlines the central idea of her message but also equips the graduates with a powerful perspective: embracing vulnerability can catalyze their capacity to lead and contribute to a world that desperately needs their voices.

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