Self-Reliance Precis American Lit

WHY Analyze arguments—whether written or spoken. Accurately describe the rhetorical techniques used in the work. PURPOSES to practice writing a concise summary of an argument. to demonstrate comprehension of the complexities and nuances inherent in sophisticated discourse.

In a four sentence format, the rhetorical précis offers a short account of an article, essay, or resource that does more than summarize its content.

Sentence 1 1. In a single coherent sentence give the following: name of the author, [optional: a phrase describing the author], the genre and title of the work, date in parenthesis; a rhetorically accurate verb (such as "assert," "argue," "deny," "refute," "prove," "disprove," "explain," etc.); and a "that" clause containing the major claim (thesis statement) of the work.

In his essay "Self-Reliance" (1841), Ralph Waldo Emerson asserts that individuals have only themselves to rely on and therefore should be nonconformists, judging what is right according to their own nature.

Sentence 2 In a single coherent sentence give an explanation of how the author develops and supports the major claim (thesis).

Emerson begins his argument by exposing our conflicting desire to fit in with society's laws and still be true to ourselves, though through examples, description, and a number of memorable aphorisms, he maintains that being oneself is a more satisfying, if often scarier prospect.

Sentence 3 In a single coherent sentence give a statement of the author's purpose, followed by an "in order" phrase indicating the change the author wants to effect in the audience.

He urges his readers to overcome these fears, listing several of history's most influential thinkers who, in their time, were persecuted for their nonconformist beliefs, thus inspiring his contemporaries to become similarly "self-reliant."

Sentence 4 In a single coherent sentence give a description of the intended audience and/or the relationship the author establishes with the audience.

While he obviously writes for other philosophers in the "Transcendental Club," Emerson's consistent references to "every" man make it clear he aims to move a broader audience to adopt his individualist philosophy.

In his essay "Self-Reliance" (1841), Ralph Waldo Emerson asserts that individuals have only themselves to rely on and therefore should be nonconformists, judging what is right according to their own nature. Emerson begins his argument by exposing our conflicting desire to fit in with society's laws and still be true to ourselves, though through examples, description, and a number of memorable aphorisms, he maintains that being oneself is a more satisfying, if often scarier prospect. He urges his readers to overcome these fears, listing several of history's most influential thinkers who, in their time, were persecuted for their nonconformist beliefs, thus inspiring his contemporaries to become similarly "self-reliant." While he obviously writes for other philosophers in the "Transcendental Club," Emerson's consistent references to "every" man make it clear he aims to move a broader audience to adopt his individualist philosophy.

Ask Yourself: Have I completed the four parts? Have I analyzed the argument/claims/assertions? Have I accurately described the rhetorical techniques? Have I written a concise summary of the argument? Do I demonstrate comprehension of the complexities and nuances inherent in sophisticated discourse?