Truman addressed a joint session of congress on April 16th, 1945, the day after Franklin Delano Roosevelt was buried. While the tradition of epitaphios logos tells us that such a speech, though sad, is good and right, Truman's speech is unique, in that he says "the most eloquent tribute would be a reverent silence" but he gives the speech because he believes it necessary to show that America was still strong and still ready to fight. So this speech was, in part, for the benefit of the enemies of the man being eulogized. Truman also didn't choose to use general articles in his speech, but rather referred to "the fight" and even specifically named the countries being fought against. I think this difference can also be attributed to his desire to show strength during this troublesome time, so that the world would be assured that America would not back down. While he was specific in his reference to what they were fighting for, he did use bracing as he placed the passing of FDR within the larger context of the fight for freedom, and the greater sorrow of all the men who gave their lives fighting for right.
FDR funeral procession
In other ways, however, Truman closely follows the Greek tradition. He perpetuates the memory of FDR as a hero, calling him a "heroic champion of justice and freedom". But the protreptikon element of the epitaphios logos is probably the one most prominently featured in this speech. Truman says "I appeal to every American...to support our efforts..." telling them that though their task may be difficult, it is of fundamental importance that they do whatever they have to in order to achieve enduring peace. What is unique about Truman's speech in this aspect is that when he asks the country to uphold the ideals that FDR represented, he also takes the time to assure the people that he will do the same; "I will support and defend those ideals with all my strength and all my heart. That is my duty and I shall not shirk it."
Truman taking oath of office
Such words seem appropriate in this case, as Truman was taking FDR's place as leader of the nation. Between himself and the rest of the nation, he says that they will achieve success, no matter how hard it is. The progonoi element is also present, as he refers to "our glorious heritage", indicating that all Americans have a noble or admirable ancestry. Also following in the Greek tradition, he portrays the country itself as heroic, calling the US "one of the most powerful forces for good on earth."
Truman's 1948 Democratic Convention Acceptance Speech
After winning the democratic nomination, Truman gave this acceptance speech, in which he demonstrates why the Democratic success over the Republicans is necessary for the good of the nation. Putting it plainly, he says "they are wrong and we are right". This speech follows the tradition of the epitaphios logos in that he is calling upon his audience to act, to do what is best for the country. What is different is that in this case he is not talking about the great deeds accomplished by a person, but by the Democratic Party. He reminds listeners of all the good the party did for farmers and labor, as well as international accomplishments such as the removal of trade barriers and the establishment of a foreign aid program. He even uses progonoi, describing the Democratic party as one that has always been good - "the Democratic party is the people's party...it always has been and always will be." He refers to predecessors of the Democratic party, such as "that great Democratic President, Woodrow Wilson". He goes on to talk about how the Republican Congress impeded his efforts to improve the country, and shares his plan to try to get them to pass some new laws.
He speaks about the Democratic Party much in the same way that similar speeches speak of the United States, saying "we are now the defenders of the stronghold of democracy and of equal opportunity." With these words, he indicates that the Democratic party is heroic (politeia) and that current democrats can uphold the heroic legacy left by their predecessors (arete). It can be seen as parallel to his 1945 speech discussed above, but rather than calling upon Americans to defend the world against the evils of Germany and Japan, he is calling upon Democrats to defend America against the evils of the Republican party.
Truman's 1949 Inaugural Address
After being sworn in, Truman gave his inaugural address, in which he discussed the ways in which the US would have to lead the world in order to achieve lasting peace. As has been seen in many speeches made by American presidents, the country is portrayed a heroic, a force for good, a defender against evil. He speaks against communism, and highlights the many differences between it and democracy. Though this is not a eulogy, it does include speech on the good things that America has done (logos/ergon). His speech is very persuasive in its anti-communist zeal and in it Truman explains the plans for fighting against communism while promoting democracy. This speech follows the Greek tradition in that Truman is asking his listeners for support in this fight, asking them to uphold the values that are fundamental to their country.
Sources
"State of the Union Messages, Campaign Speeches." Truman Speeches. Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2015.
"Truman's Democratic Convention Acceptance Speech." Presidential Links. PBS, n.d. Web. 08 Sept. 2015.
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