Question

Why does king repeat the phrase I believe in this passage

Answer 1

Answer: To engage the audience's feelings.

Explanation: Taken from the Acceptance Speech by Martin Luther King Jr. (1964), the phrase “I believe” is used several times in order to give pathos expressions in his speech, that is, to stir up emotions of hope through his words. Pathos is a very useful tool to persuade others and engage audiences in speeches or arguments. In fact, that was what Martin Luther King Jr. wanted to do, to demonstrate the great role that the Civil Rights movement played during that time.