“The Importance of Work”: Rhetorical Analysis

Introduction: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

In her essay “The Importance of Work,” Betty Friedan defines work done for earnings and its importance in recognizing identity among men, as well as the identity crisis faced by women due to the lack of outside work. This article is part of her book “The Feminine Mystique,” in which she discusses the dissatisfaction experienced by American women of that time, trapped by domestic chores and losing their identity. The book was published in 1963, a period when American women were advocating for equal rights to establish their identity. Friedan made it clear that feminine ideals limited women’s freedom and growth, contrasting it with the potential that work could offer. In this essay, she not only defines work but also explores the identity that comes with it, using a combination of definition and inductive argument methods to persuade her women audience. Employing classical techniques such as kairos, ethos, and pathos, coupled with an inductive leap, she argues that work done for survival defines a person’s identity and emphasizes how women have confined themselves and their feminine ideals to domestic chores, akin to concentration camps without identity.

In 1963, the year of the book’s publication in the United States, women were participating in various activities, sports, and work. Despite this, societal expectations still encouraged them to stay at home and focus on domestic chores. Betty Friedan argues that, as times change, work becomes not only a means to earn but also a way to define one’s identity. Therefore, by limiting themselves to their homes, women lose their identity. The argument was relevant at that time, and the writer effectively uses the classical technique of kairos, addressing the dissatisfaction of women during that era.

Writer and Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

Friedan established herself as a feminist during that time, serving as a writer, female activist, and the president of the National Organization for Women. She actively worked to bring women into the national mainstream and advocated for their equality with men in all fields. With such a background, she has already gained credibility as someone who believes in women’s capabilities and advocates for their rights. Therefore, when she asserts that “the same range of potential ability exists for women as for men,” it stems from her realization that women can work on an equal footing with men (Friedan 794). Due to the denial of opportunities, women fail to find proper expression for their identities, leading to an identity crisis. Her strong background lends weight to her arguments. Additionally, she supports her claims by citing the research of renowned figures such as Erik Erikson, a great researcher, and William James, a psychologist, further reinforcing the validity of her arguments.

Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

Moreover, Friedan effectively employs pathos to resonate with her female audience. She argues that, just as work defines identity and therapists recommend engaging in meaningful work for spiritual healing, women are denied the opportunity to choose work they love and define their own personalities. She suggests that if women don’t pursue work they are passionate about, they will exist in a “parasitic state,” experiencing weakened muscles and minds (795). Friedan touches on the emotional aspect by highlighting that women cannot solely derive their identities from their children and that true awareness of their identities often occurs when facing death or being near death. Urging women to take life seriously, she appeals to their emotions and seeks to connect with them on a personal level.

Furthermore, Friedan employs inductive reasoning in her essay. She establishes the central claim that work is crucial for identity, and from this, she deduces that women, lacking the freedom to choose the work they love, suffer from an identity crisis. By presenting specific examples and anecdotes, she builds a case that resonates with her audience. Additionally, she makes allusions to influential philosophers such as Marx and Freud (794), drawing on historical references to support her points. Friedan also employs rhetorical questions, providing answers to strengthen her argument further.

Conclusion: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

In short, Betty Friedan employs inductive reasoning effectively in this definition essay. She begins by defining the topic and then adds another layer, asserting that work not only defines identity but has evolved into a fundamental element of personality in the modern age. Friedan strategically incorporates classical rhetorical devices such as pathos, logos, and kairos to persuade her audience. She argues that despite the advanced thinking of American women, they are falling behind their Western counterparts. Through these rhetorical devices, Friedan encourages her audience to move “beyond the narrow walls of home, to help shape the future” (796). According to her, this is the only way for women to become distinct individuals and forge their own identities.

Works Cited: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

1. Friedan, Betty. “The Importance of Work.” Ed. Kirszner, Laurie G. & Stephen R. Mandell. Practical Argument.  Bedford / St. Martin’s/ New York. 2010. Print. 794-796.

Relevant Questions about Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

1. How does Betty Friedan utilize rhetorical strategies, such as ethos, logos, and pathos, to convey her perspective on “The Importance of Work”?
2. In what ways does Friedan support her argument about the significance of work, and how does she appeal to the emotions and reasoning of her audience?
3. How does the historical context and Friedan’s personal experiences contribute to the overall effectiveness of her argument in “The Importance of Work”?