Eloquence in Adversity: A Hope-Theoretic Exegesis of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s 7th March, 1971 Speech and Its Societal Ramifications

Abstract

This research paper conducts a meticulous exegesis of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's seminal 7th March 1971 speech through the theoretical framework of Hope Theory as propounded by C.R. Snyder. By dissecting the speech’s rhetorical architecture, this study elucidates how Bangabandhu’s strategic deployment of goal-setting, pathway articulation, and agency instillation galvanized a subjugated populace toward the pursuit of sovereignty. The analysis reveals the intricate mechanisms by which Bangabandhu engendered psychological resilience and fostered a robust communal identity, thus transforming rhetorical constructs into catalysts for socio-political mobilization. Furthermore, this paper expounds on the practical implications of hope-infused rhetoric, underscoring its potency in contemporary political discourse and its capacity to fortify national cohesion. The societal ramifications of such rhetorical prowess are profound, offering contemporary leaders a paradigmatic blueprint for engendering collective action and sustaining national morale amidst adversity. This scholarly inquiry contributes to the corpus of rhetorical studies by providing a nuanced understanding of the interplay between hope, rhetoric, and societal transformation.