Occasions for Public Speaking

Influence of the Occasion  Specific speeches for specific occasions  Constraints created by occasions  Constraints not absolute

The Rhetorical Situation  A public speech occurs in response to a specific situation  A situation is a particular context in which a speech takes place  Rhetoric is the study of how messages affect people  The Rhetorical Situation  A situation in which people’s understanding can be changed through messages

The Audience  Speeches are presented to specific audiences. The reactions of audience members help to create/define the rhetorical situation.  Most speakers attempt to achieve identification with the audience.  Sometimes, a speaker may deliberately avoid identification with an audience to prove a point.  It is important for a speaker to know his/her audience prior to delivering a speech, as well as to gauge feedback during.

The Occasion  The occasion will often dictate what type of speech is delivered  Some speeches are ceremonial, while others are deliberative.  Audience’s expectations about appropriate behavior  The occasion provides a speaker with exigence

The Speaker  The same speech delivered by different speakers will have drastically different effects  Image, role, credibility (ethos), experience, talent, etc.  3 most general purposes of speeches:  Informing  Persuading  Entertaining  What is a good speech?

Constraints & Opportunities  Speakers face certain constraints when speaking, but also have opportunities to redefine rhetorical situations.

Case Study

Decorum  “A decorous speech is one that conforms to the expectations of a particular occasion.”  Formality  Length  Intensity

Decorum  Supporting material  Identification  Identify your purpose

Deliberative Speaking  Prevalent with any formal or informal decision-making group – “What shall we do?”  Answer not self evident, but a decision is required  Involves informing and persuading

Deliberative Speaking  Community Service  Oral reports & presentations  Group presentations  Public hearings & debates

Ceremonial Speaking  Also known as epideictic speaking  Focus on values and bringing people together  Impact of resonance  Articulating unexpressed feelings

Ceremonial Speaking  Speeches of greeting  Introductions  Speeches of tribute  Testimonials, eulogies, toasts, roasts  Speeches marking awards  Presentation, acceptance

Case Study

Deliberative/Ceremonial  Keynote  After-dinner  Commencement