The Power and Legacy of Prophetic Discourse in the

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X utilized prophetic discourse during a time of social revolution to develop a sense of identity, address social issues, and initiate change in society through terminology based on historical plights and redemption. The two men appealed to a sense of heritage, passionately exposed then-present crimes and needs, and called for action to secure the future. This paper will briefly address the background of the Civil Rights MovemThlolo ca 'nformation of two of its most prominent leaders, their intended audiences, and t e results of their discourse, but will focus on the actual words, techniques, and themes that helped make the Movement such a large scale success. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X utilized key techniques such as religious and dream imagery, metaphors, strong diction, repetition, and allusions to powerfully appeal to their audiences and give the Civil Rights Movement a solid and strong direction. Both men were excellent communicators, and the study of their works proves the power of persuasive English techniques and exactly why the two men were such influential figures in American history. A closer look at some of their mos