Charlie Chaplin, one of the most recognizable visual characters of his time as the Tramp, lived the life of a true legend of unequalled stature. His enduring fame transcended the silent film era and continued through the rise of talking pictures. Chaplin's effective and resourceful use of the sound in his masterpiece, the aptly named "Modern Times," elevated the art form and showcased his remarkable talent as an untrained composer, scoring many of his films by humming the melodies for transcription.

As World War II approached, Chaplin became the first to publicly lampoon Hitler with his portrayal in "The Great Dictator." In this film, Chaplin's European version of the Little Tramp is swapped out for the antagonist. The climax of the film features the first time the public heard Chaplin speak in his own voice, and perhaps his own words. His impassioned speech railed against the looming theater of war, begging people not to send their loved ones off to kill for criminal minds.

The impact of Chaplin's first spoken words in "The Great Dictator" was tremendous. Critics at the time often disliked the speech because it broke form, truly ending an era, and because Germany was still in strong favor in Hollywood and the US. However, audiences loved his speech, and the film remains on many top 100 lists to this day. The video of the speech is still passed around the world like a constant set of waves.

In conclusion, Charlie Chaplin, a legend of silent film, is also undeniably a legend of voice due to the profound impact of his speech in "The Great Dictator." The scene showcases the power of a single voice, at the right moment in history, to challenge the status quo and inspire change. Chaplin's decision to break his silence and use his voice to speak out against the atrocities of war and fascism is a testament to the transformative power of the spoken word in media.

This remarkable moment in cinematic history is a poignant reminder of the importance of integrity and the enduring impact that art can have on society. Even today, Chaplin's impassioned plea for peace and humanity continues to resonate with audiences around the world, demonstrating that the influence of a powerful voice can reverberate through time and inspire generations to come. As such, Charlie Chaplin's contribution to the world of voice is as legendary as his iconic silent film persona, and his legacy will forever be intertwined with the power of the spoken word.