Wiley-Blackwell Rhetoric: An Historical Introduction

This introduction to the art of rhetoric analyzes rhetorical concepts, problems, and methods and teaches practical inquiry through a series of classic rhetorical texts. An introduction to the art of rhetoric for those who are unacquainted with it and an argument about invention and tradition suitable for specialists Texts range from Cicero's De oratoreand Augustine’s On Christian Doctrineto Jane Austen’s Persuasionand Stephen Greenblatt’s Marvellous Possessions Texts serve simultaneously as works of persuasion and considerations of how rhetoric works Engages readers in using rhetoric to deliberate about challenging issues. Review “This is not only a useful introduction to the history of rhetoric, it is also an important contribution to contemporary legal and political theory.” (Philosophy In Review) Review "Professor Olmsted has produced a much-needed and unique book: an account of rhetorical thinking through the ages focused on specific texts in their cultural contexts. The book does something far more important than impart mere doctrine: it demonstrates how, and teaches one, to think like a rhetorician. It will make an invaluable contribution in and out of the classroom."  –Walter Jost, University of Virgina"Wendy Olmsted gives scholars and teachers in many disciplines a valuable new kind of historical introduction to rhetoric. In three interrelated sections she provides a clear overview of classical rhetoric, incisive case studies of literature and rhetoric, and a suggestive discussion of rhetorical invention and argument in literary criticism, politics, and law. This book creatively teaches us how to think rhetorically through concrete historical examples of deliberation and judgment."  –Steven Mailloux, University of California From the Inside Flap This introduction to the art of rhetoric argues that knowledge of rhetoric improves deliberation about particular issues and problems. By mastering rhetorical concepts and modes of argument, readers can address the sometimes turbulent circumstances in their own lives, times, and fields of study. But because rhetoric speaks to the demands of the moment, it must be practiced with an understanding of its historical context. The author provides an intellectual frame for understanding the history and conceptual foundations of rhetoric and gives a strong sense of the ways classic rhetorical texts continue to influence us by providing contexts and resources for contemporary debates. The texts, which range from Aristotle’s Rhetoricto Edward H. Levi’s An Introduction to Legal Reasoning and Danielle S. Allen’s Talking to Strangers serve simultaneously as models of persuasion and as thoughtful considerations of how rhetoric works. Earlier texts serve as contexts for later ones. From the Back Cover This introduction to the art of rhetoric argues that knowledge of rhetoric improves deliberation about particular issues and problems. By mastering rhetorical concepts and modes of argument, readers can address the sometimes turbulent circumstances in their own lives, times, and fields of study. But because rhetoric speaks to the demands of the moment, it must be practiced with an understanding of its historical context. The author provides an intellectual frame for understanding the history and conceptual foundations of rhetoric and gives a strong sense of the ways classic rhetorical texts continue to influence us by providing contexts and resources for contemporary debates. The texts, which range from Aristotle’s Rhetoricto Edward H. Levi’s An Introduction to Legal Reasoning and Danielle S. Allen’s Talking to Strangers serve simultaneously as models of persuasion and as thoughtful considerations of how rhetoric works. Earlier texts serve as contexts for later ones. About the Author Wendy Olmsted is Associate Professor in the New Collegiate Division and in the Humanities Division at the University of Chicago as wel