Learning Objectives
After reading this chapter you should be able to:
-
Define rhetoric.
-
Identify key features of classical rhetorical theory.
-
Identify the challenges that contemporary theorists are making to the study of rhetoric.
-
Define rhetorical criticism.
-
Explain the purpose and uses of rhetorical criticism.
-
Explain the different models of rhetorical criticism.
-
Understand how rhetorical theory and criticism are a current part of the communication discipline.
In this chapter devoted to rhetorical theory and criticism, we will explore both of these separate but related fields of inquiry, briefly map out their history, discuss some of the major rhetorical theories and methods of doing rhetorical criticism, and finally, explain how this specialization contributes to the larger discipline of Communication. But, before going any further, let’s begin by highlighting the definitional and historical debate so we may begin with a common understanding of the term, “rhetoric.” Remember from Chapter 5 that we are defining
rhetoric
as
“any kind of symbol use that functions in any realm”
(Foss, Foss, and Griffin 7).
-
-
7.1: Rhetorical Criticism Overview
-
-
-
7.2: Rhetoric In Ancient Times
-
-
-
7.3: Understanding Rhetorical Criticism
-
In the second half of this chapter we would like to discuss a close associate to rhetorical theory—rhetorical criticism. To explain this exciting subdiscipline we will discuss the scope of rhetorical criticism, the purpose of this method, the kinds of knowledge produced, and the relationship between rhetorical theory and criticism. We will conclude with examples of how rhetorical criticism seeks to answer contemporary socio and political concerns.
-
-
7.4: Current Uses of Rhetorical Theory and Criticism
-
By now you should have a clear understanding of what rhetorical theory and criticism are and the uses they serve for the discipline as well as the world outside academia. We would like to conclude this chapter by detailing some of the current issues and questions occupying rhetorical scholars. As the examples are numerous, we will speak to three specific content areas: the study of social movements, political and campaign rhetoric, and studies of popular culture.
-
-
7.5: Rhetorical Criticism Summary
-
-
-
7.6: Rhetorical Criticism References
-
Thumbnail: Bust of Aristotle. Marble, Roman copy after a Greek bronze original by Lysippos from 330 BC; the alabaster mantle is a modern addition. (Public Domain)