What is Rhetoric?

Rhetoric (noun) : “The skill of using language in speech or writing in a special way that influences or persuades people”

The Rhetorical Triangle Subject Effect Purpose Audience

Why do writers use rhetoric? • Argument --- To discover a truth Leads to CONVICTION Persuasion ---- to know a truth Leads to ACTION

Purposes of rhetoric Some of the purposes of rhetoric are to Evaluate Inform Make decisions Convince Explore Define Motivate Inspire Criticize

Methods/Techniques Authors often use the following methods/techniques to get their points across: Logic Humor Evidence Examples Definitions Surprise Shock and awe Emotion

And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal." I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. ~ Martin Luther King, Jr. “I Have a Dream” 1

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