In A Way with Words: Writing, Rhetoric, and the Art of Persuasion, esteemed professor Michael D.C. Drout brings his expertise in literary studies to the subject of rhetoric. From history-altering political speeches to friendly debates at cocktail parties, rhetoric holds the power to change opinions, spark new thoughts, and ultimately change the world. The study of rhetoric not only leads to a greater understanding of how personages such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill elevated the power of speech to majestic heights, but also to a stronger proficiency in using rhetoric in anyone's day-to-day life. Professor Drout examines the types of rhetoric and their effects, the structure of effective arguments, and how subtleties of language can be employed to engage in more successful rhetoric. Drout also ponders the role of rhetoric in our world and the ageold question of whether it is just a tool for convincing people of things that aren't true, or whether it is indeed a force for good that will ultimately lead to truth.Lecture 1 How to Do Things with Words: Rhetoric and Speech-Act Theory: How Words Can Change Reality
Lecture 2 Rhetoric, Sophistry, and Philosophy
Lecture 3 Audience
Lecture 4 Structures of Effective Arguments
Lecture 5 The Enthymeme
Lecture 6 The Rhetoric of Logic: Truth and Syllogisms
Lecture 7 Logical Fallacies
Lecture 8 Logos, Ethos, Pathos
Lecture 9 Figures of Speech I: Schemes
Lecture 10 Figures of Speech II: Tropes
Lecture 11 Grammar I: Syntax
Lecture 12 Grammar II: Structure, Punctuation ("Pause and Effect")
Lecture 13 Subtleties: Word Choice, Speech Patterns, Accent
Lecture 14 Rhetorical Train Wrecks and Triumphs