Text Analysis of Mayflower Compact

Who is writing?
- "We, whose names are underwritten" Subjects of King James, settlers at New Plymouth

Who is the audience?
- The audience would be both King James and the English government, also the signers, because this was a social contract put into action for their own cause.

Who do the writers represent?
- The writers are pilgrims that voyaged on the Mayflower to the New World. They also represented a small body of people, joining together to "combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation"

What is being said, argued or requested?
- They are requesting permission, or rather making a claim to make and control their own government for their own good. They’re also seeking political and religious freedom in the New World.

How is it being said, argued or requested?
- They are still respectful, and are not rebelling. They give proper consideration and respect to their King and God, and claim these freedoms in King James' name.

What proof or justification is being used to legitimize the request?
- The compact was made in the democratic fashion, with a majority signing. They also knew there would be none to oppose them or rule them in the new world if they made their own settlement.