USMC85 · Rhetoric

Introduction

Rhetoric

The art of using language effectively.

• art?
• language?
• effectiveness?
• Where is rhetoric used?

The art of using language effectively.

• to persuade rightfully or wrongfully
• to persuade honestly or seductively
• to argue with proper strong arguments
• to counter-argument

Rhetorical triangle

Rhetorical appeals

Aims of the speaker:

• logos - intellect - reasonable premises | appropriate details | argumentation
• ethos - credibility - being credible | being good-willed | knowledgeable
• pathos - emotions - interests | praise the audience

Exemples

• Interaction is about the in-between.
• Throughout my research, I have observed…
• It is magnificent, isn’t it? I am sure you understand.

Rhetorical canons

Canons are tools for the speaker.

1. Invention - pattern for one’s purpose
2. Arrangement - structure of the speech
3. Style - expression of an idea - plain style | middle style | grand style
4. Memory - make speech memorable
5. Delivery - gesture | expression | pacing

Figures of speech

• trope - signification - metaphor | personification | litotes | rhetorical question | oxymoron
• scheme - structure - antithesis | ellipsis | chiasmus

Exemples

• “It was not bad.” | Are you kidding me? | A little pain never hurt anyone. | This was an eloquent silence.
• “You are so…” | “You forget what you want to remember, and you remember what you want to forget.”

Mode of discourses

• Description - present information
• Narration - sequence of events
• Exposition - present ideas
• Argument - persuade a viewpoint

Fallacies

A fallacies is an often plausible argument using false or invalid inference. List of fallacies