The study and/or use of persuasive language

  Speeches provide a rich opportunity for us to examine and practice rhetorical analysis and argumentation. Remember, our working definition of rhetoric is: “The study and/or use of persuasive language.” In this essay, you will be utilizing both sides of this definition (i.e., “study and use”). You will be examining someone else's language in order to make an argument about the effectiveness of its persuasiveness (or lack thereof). The speech you choose could be historical, political, relevant in the media, or even inspirational. It can be a graduation speech, a groomsman or bridesmaid speech that went viral, a TED Talk. It can only exist on paper (such as one delivered before radio or television) although sometimes there is more to write about when you examine body language and tone as well. Write an essay in which you evaluate the effectiveness of the speech. You could even argue the ineffectiveness of a speech, but make sure to provide examples and explanations as to why. Your research should inform your understanding of the target demographic; you do not get to guess what the demographic may be. What are the intentions of the speech and who is the speech intended for? In the same thesis, you will argue for the speech’s efficacy. Thus, your research will also include examination of delivery techniques. Make sure to analyze the speech’s use of ethos, logos, and or pathos Links to an external site.. It may be helpful to choose a speech in which you are able to watch the speaker deliver their speech. What was their tone and how did it change? What was their body language like throughout the speech?