Aristotle defined rhetoric as “the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion.”

Other definitions of rhetoric:The art of persuasion“rhetoric is the art or science of men and

women communicating with other human beings” –James J. Murphy

What techniques do writers and speakers use to deliver their messages?

What is the effect of speaker, occasion, audience, purpose, and subject?

How do writers and speakers appeal to the audience-ethos, logos, and pathos?

What makes a speech effective?How does structure relate to purpose?Just how powerful can one word be?What are fallacies?

SPEAKER

SUBJECTAUDIENCE

The following clip shows how even something as basic as a children’s television show employs the rhetorical triangle.

Near and Far

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZhEcRrMA-M

Henry Louis "Lou" Gehrig (June 19, 1903 – June 2, 1941)

Played in 2,130 consecutive gamesInducted into baseball hall of fame in

1939Career cut short by ALS (which came to be

known as Lou Gehrig’s disease

Lou Gehrig videoLou Gehrig audio

In rhetoric, the topic addressed in a piece of writing.

In Sesame Street clip:The concept of near and far

In Lou Gehrig’s speech:His career in baseball with the YankeesHow lucky and blessed he has been in his life

A term used for the author, speaker, or the person whose perspective (real or imagined) is being advanced in speech or a piece of writing.

In Sesame Street clip:Grover, a lovable monster, who is trusted by

children. They view him as a friend.In Lou Gehrig’s speech:

Presents himself as a common man, modest, and glad for the life he’s lived

One’s listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.

In Sesame Street clip:Preschoolers/toddlers

In Lou Gehrig’s speech:Fans, fellow athletes, those in the stadium, and

those who would hear the speech on the radio. He is addressing people rooting for him.