Download Introduction to Rhetoric

Introduction to Rhetoric
 Rhetoric:
is the art of persuasive language.
*Throughout most of history, it is referred
to as the art of speechmaking and
oratory.
 Writers
and speakers use rhetoric to
convince readers or listeners to do
something or to think something.
*Think of every time you want to get your
way. You’re using rhetoric!
Various meanings of Rhetoric

The meaning of the word Rhetoric seems to differ
depending on how the word is used and who is using it.

You’ve probably heard politicians at some time or
another dismiss the positions of their opponents as “pure
rhetoric.”

You’re probably also familiar with the idea of rhetorical
question-a question that is meant to make a point and
not to be answered.
For our purposes: Rhetoric is a
thoughtful, reflective activity
leading to effective
communication, including the
rational exchange of opposing
viewpoints.
Classic (and less reputable ways)
to use rhetoric:

When a politician tries to get you to vote for him, he is
using rhetoric.

When a lawyer tries to move a jury, she is using rhetoric.

When a government produces propaganda, it is using
rhetoric.

When an advertisement tries to get you to buy
something, it is using rhetoric.

When the president is giving a speech, he is using
rhetoric.
Rhetoric can be subtler and even
positive.

Someone writing an office memo.

Newspaper writers offers her depiction of what
happened.

Scientist giving theories or results.

Writing your mom and dad an email.

And, yes, when I’m trying to explain about
rhetoric 
In this class…

We will use rhetoric to refer to persuasion that
occurs through any medium, not just text or
speech.

Eventually, you will start to see all
communication as rhetorical: as a set of
deliberate, strategic decisions that someone
made to achieve a certain purpose with a
certain audience.
Occasion, Context and Purpose
RHETORIC IS ALWAYS SITUATIONAL AND HAS A/AN:

Occasion: The time and place the text was
written or spoken.

Context: The circumstance, atmosphere,
attitudes and events surrounding the text.

Purpose: The goal the speaker wants to achieve.
The Rhetorical Triangle
(The Relationship)
Let’s try it…
Lou Gehrig's Farewell Speech:
What’s the rhetorical situation?
A. Occasion:
B. Context:
C. Purpose:
What’s the relationship among the speaker, audience and
subject?
Q: Is it a persona, a group or person? Describe.
Q: Is the audience a listener, viewer or reader? Are they
hostile, friendly or neutral?
Q: What is the subject/topic (not purpose)?
