ENGL 3860: Introduction Slide Deck

Rhetoric
Most generally defined, rhetoric is the use of symbols to produce an
effect (e.g., a verbal command to “Stop,” a red traffic light, or a Journey
song imploring us “Don’t Stop Believing”). From this viewpoint, rhetoric
assumes that the use of language is symbolic action. The famous “word
vs. deeds” distinction has no place here. Though rhetoric has become a
negative word within political circles and contemporary media, it has a rich
history as one of the oldest intellectual pursuits in the western world. With
a focus on audience, context, and identification, rhetoric is a potent
motive force within a community. Successful persuasive practice is a
predicated on an emerging rhetorical understanding of that work.