Rhetorical analysis Assessing the effects of rhetorical devices

 Answer the question.  Use textual evidence. Don’t skip step one:

Purpose  Purpose is the goal the speaker wishes to achieve.  In Lou Gehrig’s speech, his purpose was to thank his fans, but he also wants to demonstrate that he remains positive. He responds as a true Yankee (not just the team, but the can-do Yankee spirit of America).  He accepts his fate with dignity, honor, humility and even a touch of humor.  (LOC 3)

. Speaker Kairos/Exigency Audience Subject Consider the relationships implicit in the rhetorical triangle. Text

 Think of SOAPS as a checklist that will help you organize your ideas rhetorically. Annotate and use SOAPS.

 Not ‘What does it mean?’ BUT “How does it mean?” When considering the effect rhetorical devices have on the audience, consider:

 Antithesis  Anaphora  Allusion To emphasize? Contrast? Connect? Effects of rhetorical devices

 The opposition or contrast of words in a parallel structure.  This can create a contrast to emphasize the differences between the parts.  It can also call attention to the relationship between the parts. Antithesis

 This type of repetition can add emphasis and make the part of the speech more memorable and quotable.  It can give the speech a musical quality and add unity. Anaphora

 This can give a speech depth and help establish the speaker’s ethos.  It may refer to something that represents values the speaker shares with the audience, and the audience shares with each other. Allusion

 Render a diagram or other graphic that demonstrates the relationship between:  Kairos/Exigency  The text  The speaker  The audience  The purpose  Rhetorical devices On your exit slip