RA #11-Rocky IV

Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) delivers this speech after having defeated Soviet champion Ivan Drago in a bout in Moscow. The initially hostile Soviet crowd began to praise Rocky as he withstood the advances of their champion.

WATCO and Enthymeme

What are the consequences of Rocky Balboa's speech on the end of the Cold War?

Rocky Balboa's speech figuratively ends the Cold War because Rocky's passion in the fight and in his speech improves the image of Americans in the eyes of the Soviets.

Audience

A sold-out crowd in Moscow and a worldwide television audience.

Goal

Convince Soviets and Americans that they can change their views about each other and the world as a whole.

How?

Though Rocky could be triumphant and brash by hoisting the American flag from off his shoulders, he humbly keeps it draped over him. Thus, by not acting as a typical American in the eyes of the Soviets, they trust that he is being genuine is his request, and the appeal to ethos is complete.

By including not only the Russians' need to change, but our own as well, the argument becomes relevant to all parties involved. Rocky knows that if someone as stubborn and initially agitated by Russians as he is can improve his outlook on them, then many Americans can follow his example. It does take both sides to end a war, even a cold one.

As if there wasn't enough pathos in the speech, what with the sweating and the heavy breathing and the whole thing, Rocky gives a shout-out to his son after we think the speech has ended. This reflects the kindof family values Rocky cherishes and, in turn, the Soviets can implement his call to change and leave communism behind.

Effectiveness

In the movie world, this kind of inspiration can't help but bring about change. Even the premier got out of his chair. However, in the real world of the Cold War, this would not have had the legs to carry out its intended purpose.