ENGL 1101: What is rhetoric?

About this Video

• Video Title: ENGL 1101: What is rhetoric?
• Channel: Dr Barton
• Speakers: Dr. Barton
• Duration: 00:13:45

Introduction

This video provides a lecture on rhetoric, defining it and offering an annotation strategy for analysis. Dr. Barton explains rhetoric as both an ability to observe means of persuasion and a conversation, using Aristotle and Buran's perspectives. The video emphasizes understanding the rhetorical situation using the acronym "SPACECAT."

Key Takeaways

• Definition of Rhetoric: Rhetoric is defined as the ability to observe available means of persuasion (Aristotle) and as a conversation (Buran).
• SPACECAT Annotation Strategy: This acronym (Speaker, Purpose, Audience, Context, Exigence, Appeals, Tone) provides a framework for analyzing rhetorical situations. Context refers to the historical implications of a text; exigence is the reason why now the speech or text is needed.
• Purpose Breakdown: The video explains how to distinguish between the author's claim (thesis) and their purpose (desired outcome, emotional response, action from the audience).
• Kairos: Kairos, meaning "the right time and in the right measure," is discussed as a crucial element of rhetoric, influencing the impact of a message based on timing and context. Examples of Kairos include the speeches of Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr.
• Rhetorical Triangle: The video explains using the rhetorical triangle (situation, appeals, structure) as another tool for analysis of texts.