Question

Read the excerpt from Martin Luther King Jr.’s "I Have a Dream” speech.

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force.

King’s use of repetition in the excerpt stresses his

desire for political power.
deep religious faith.
plea for peaceful action.
physical strength.

Answer 1

plea for peaceful action.

The repeated phrases ("We must...," "We must not...," "Again and again...") emphasize nonviolent, disciplined protest and meeting "physical force with soul force," calling for peaceful resistance rather than violence.