The document introduces the basics of rhetoric, including definitions from Aristotle and other sources. It discusses the major players in rhetoric - the author, audience, and subject. Rhetorical analysis is defined as identifying and examining the techniques an author uses to effectively communicate their message, such as language, images, and verbal inflections. The analysis should ask three questions: what is the message, how is it being conveyed, and why is it being conveyed.

1. AN INTRODUCTION The Basics of Rhetoric

2. A FEW DEFINITIONS TO KNOW What is Rhetoric?

3. Definitions of Rhetoric Aristotle’s Definition: the art of observing in any given case the “available means of persuasion Other Definitions: “ The study of effective speaking and writing.” -Silva Rhetoricae “ The art of speaking or writing effectively” Merriam-Webster “ The art of effective communication” ???

4. 3 THINGS TO CONSIDER The Major Players of Rhetoric

5. Aristotle’s Ideas Author – the creator of the communication Audience – the receiver of the communication Subject – the topic of the communication

6. **NOTE: THAT WAS NOT A RHETORICAL QUESTION What is Rhetorical Analysis?

7. The Components… Rhetoric = effective speaking and writing Analysis = identifying the parts or features of something and explaining how these features work together

9. Rhetorical Analysis Cameron’s definition: Breaking apart the components of a piece of communication to examine the techniques an author uses to get a point across. Communication mediums – speaking, writing, visual Techniques of… Language (our major focus) Images Verbal inflections

10. ASK 3 QUESTIONS So how do we start?

11. 3 Rhetorical Questions 1. What is the message? 2. How is the message being conveyed? 3. Why is the message being conveyed?

12. Remember…