English and Literature MLA

Letter of Birmingham jail

Part of Chapter 8 of DiYanni’s text consisted of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” a letter of response to some local Alabama clergy in which he defends his use of civil disobediance in an effort to bring about change against their rebukes and calls for peaceful complacency. Please read King’s letter, which runs pp. 188-201, though it is occasionally interrupted by DiYanni’s commentary. What was the prupose of his letter and how did he go about arguing his stance? How did he counter their arguments? What do you think were the best, most effective points in his essay and why? Please respond in 1-2 double-spaced pages by 11:59 p.m. on October 23rd. No late responses accepted.