Persuasive Techniques In Great Awakening, By Jonathan Edwards

In Puritan America, colonists were constantly fearful of what would happen when they died. Since death at a young age was altogether too common in those times, early Americans wanted to be certain that they were in good standing with God. Jonathan Edwards’s sermons were preached during the period of Great Awakening, a time of religious revival. In his sermons, Edwards used a variety of persuasive techniques, including vibrant images and compelling metaphors used to prompt sinners to repent. The author’s style of writing is very appropriate for the specific topic causing a great deal of reactions from his audience. His style also aids him in achieving his purpose by capturing the attention of the audience through his various strategies. Edwards'

Edwards purposely uses selective terminology as well as biblical jargon which only strengthened his ability to control his audience by instilling the fear of God. The use of unfamiliar vocabulary made the style more effective for his purpose. This quote "...in the hand of God, over the pit of hell; they had deserved the fiery pit..."(Edwards 46) uses the word "hell" combined with an angry tone in order to make the reader feel apprehensive and more easily persuaded.. The general population does not usually express their religious views with others in efforts of refraining from potentially having an unpleasant discussion. Therefore, Edwards’s choice of diction proves to be an effective persuasive

Edwards uses this illustration to convey the power of God to the people, many who were incapable of understanding complex imagery. Through the effective use of metaphors along with gripping imagery, Edwards made comparisons to peoples’ everyday lives. He preached that their state of wickedness was as “heavy as lead” and therefore, pulling them down straight toward Hell. This excerpt has a negative connotation in the eyes of the reader. Because society generally dislikes being classified as immoral, the following excerpt also greatly supports Edwards taunting tactics by implementing a sense of guilt with the strategic use of the word “sinner”; "O sinner! Consider the fearful danger you are in" (Edwards