The Language of Composition: Reading, Writing, Rhetoric Chapter 1 - “An Introduction to Rhetoric: Using the ‘Available Means’”

Rhetoric demystified… Rhetoric does not automatically mean deception or trickery Defined as “the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion” (Aristotle B.C.E). Rhetoric Is… ThoughtfulReflective Rationalappealing

Key Elements of Rhetoric Context Purpose Thesis, claim, or assertion Subject Speaker

The Rhetorical Triangle Speaker AudienceSubject Referred to as the Aristotelian triangle

Appeals to… Ethos character Logos reason Pathos emotion Demonstrate credibility Emphasize shared values Reputation precedes self Gives audience reason to listen Offer clear, rational ideas Clear main idea Acknowledge counterargument Concede/refute Link to assumptions Language engages the emotions of audience Connotation important Propagandistic/polemical Vivid, concrete description Figurative language

Visual Rhetoric Discussed in terms used for written text Often satirical in nature, but not required Commentary

Arrangement The Classical Model Patterns of development Narration Description Process analysis Exemplification Compare/contrast Classification/division Definition Cause/effect