Here's how to do that:
* Listen actively: Pay close attention to the speech's main points, the language used, and the speaker's tone.
* Consider the context: Where was the speech given? Who was the audience? What were the circumstances?
* Ask yourself: What does the speaker want the audience to think, feel, or do after hearing the speech?
By understanding the speaker's purpose, you lay the foundation for understanding the speech's structure, content, and overall effectiveness.