Use of Pathos in “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown

Introduction

In the renowned narrative, “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee,” Dee Brown aspires to shed light on the often overlooked and profoundly troubling side of the United States’ westward expansion, namely, the displacement and massacre of countless indigenous tribes. To advance this purpose, Brown skillfully employs the rhetorical strategy of pathos, stirring profound emotions within the reader (Cunningham 57).

Pathos Through Lived Experiences of Suffering

One could observe this strategy in the haunting chronicles of various massacres that befell indigenous tribes. Instead of resorting to cold statistics, Brown delves into the lived experiences of the people who suffered through these calamities, describing their courage, hopes, fears, and despair. The vivid details he provides about the brutalities perpetrated against the indigenous people, not sparing the reader any discomfort, make it nearly impossible to remain unaffected.

In other segments, Brown masterfully portrays the cultural richness and diverse traditions of the tribes (Brown 104). The reader learns about their intimate connections with the land, profound respect for the natural world, and intricate social structures. This stark contrast between their peaceful existence and the relentless violence brought upon them by the settlers creates an overwhelming sense of injustice.

The Role of Indigenous Leaders in Evoking Empathy

Equally compelling is Brown’s depiction of the indigenous leaders. Their words, filled with wisdom and desperate pleas for peace, echo with a tragic foreboding. Their unfulfilled hopes, shattered dreams, and melancholy in the face of looming doom add to the reader’s overwhelming empathy and sorrow. This strategic use of pathos is not merely for eliciting emotional reactions but serves a greater purpose (Brown, 2012). 

Conclusion

By revealing the harsh truths of history and engendering a deep emotional understanding within the reader, Brown seeks to challenge preconceived notions about the American West’s settlement. Consequently, readers are compelled to empathize with the indigenous tribes’ experiences, view their history differently, and recognize the need to rectify past injustices. Through the professional use of pathos, Brown humanizes historical facts, transforming them from abstract events into visceral experiences that engage the reader’s emotions, stimulating compassion and a critical re-evaluation of history. His narrative demonstrates how a well-executed emotional appeal can be impactful in achieving the author’s purpose.

Works Cited

Brown, D. Bury my heart at wounded knee: An Indian history of the American west. Open Road Media, 2012

Cunningham, Eeamon. Understanding rhetoric: A guide to critical reading and argumentation. Brown Walker Press, 2019

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StudyCorgi. "Use of Pathos in “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown." September 29, 2025. https://studycorgi.com/use-of-pathos-in-bury-my-heart-at-wounded-knee-by-dee-brown/.

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StudyCorgi. 2025. "Use of Pathos in “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown." September 29, 2025. https://studycorgi.com/use-of-pathos-in-bury-my-heart-at-wounded-knee-by-dee-brown/.

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