An Intro to Rhetoric

What is rhetoric? The art of analyzing all choices involving language that a writer, speaker, reader, or listener might make in a situation so that the text becomes meaningful, purposeful, and effective; the specific features of texts, written or spoken, that cause them to be meaningful, purposeful, and effective for readers or listeners in a situation. Basically, humans processing every message we send and receive.

What does it mean to be skilled at rhetoric? Able to deliver persuasive speeches and write convincing papers Able to read/listen and comprehend messages with a critical ear and discerning eye Able to ace the AP Language/Composition Exam

Rhetoric As We Know It

Rhetorical Triangle Speaker AudienceSubject

The Three Appeals ETHOS: character, credibility, shared values PATHOS: emotion ( rarely effective on its own ) LOGOS: clear, rational ideas, examples, facts

Rhetorical Analysis When reading multiple choice and rhetorical analysis passages, always make the rhetorical triangle connection. Always think of how persuasive techniques are being used. 3 appeals Rhetorical devices Diction Syntax Remember that multiple choice and rhetorical analysis are basically the same thing!

Lou Gehrig’s Speech I'm a lucky man

Lou Gehrig’s Speech Why is it effective? Understood rhetoric has a CONTEXT Just diagnosed with ALS and celebration of his athletic career Understood rhetoric has a PURPOSE Remain positive and downplay bleak outlook Knows who he is, his audience, and his subject

Rhetorical Triangle for Gehrig Speaker: common man, modest Audience: fans of baseball Subject: baseball, NY Yankees

The Appeals and Gehrig ETHOS: Gehrig is a good sport, regular guy who shares audience’s love of baseball PATHOS: first person I, words with strong connotations LOGOS: “luckiest man on the face of the earth” with two supporting points

Why is this speech effective? Although Lou Gehrig was one of the best baseball players of our time, he presents himself as a humble, grateful man who wants to pay tribute to his fans and ultimate supporters. Instead of using fancy vocabulary or baseball jargon, Gehrig engages his fan base with easy repetition such as “Sure, I’m lucky.” His goal here is to make his speech accessible to anyone and to keep his focus on having a positive attitude in spite of incredible hardship. Sample Rhetorical Analysis Paragraph