Response Essay Type:Rhetorical Analysis

Rhetoric“the art of

speaking or writing effectively”

www. merriam-webster.com

Rhetorical Analysis“Analyze the

methods the author employs in his or her writing”1. Purpose,

audience, strategy

2. Tone (diction, syntax, figurative language)

3. Rhetoric

RhetoricPathosEthosLogos

◦Inductive◦Deductive

Syllogism

Pathos [Gr. emotion]“A direct appeal

to your emotions”◦ Ex. advertising ◦ Ex. political

speeches

What is the purpose of the pathos? (Why is the author trying to convince you to do something?)

Ethos [Gr. Character]“An argument about

credulity (believability)”◦ The writer attempts to

convince the reader that he is a credible source of information.

What is the purpose of the writer using ethos? (Why is he/she trying to get you to believe something?)

Logos [Gr. Reason]“A rational and

reasonable argument”◦ Author’s point-of-

view◦ Testimonials◦ Historical citations

Is the claim sound or the evidence valid?

InductiveA type of logos

argumentProof by example

◦ Scientists look for trends in data to draw conclusions.

Is the author’s point-of-view valid?

DeductiveA type of logos

argumentBased on claims

the writer asserts are true

If A is true, and B is true, then C must be true.Are the claims valid? Do they result in the conclusion stated?

I drive a car. My car is red. My car is a Ferrari.

SyllogismA particular type of

deductive argumentTwo premises and a

conclusion◦ All humans Die. Mona

is a human. Therefore, Mona will die.

◦ God created mankind. All of God’s creatures are good. Therefore, mankind is good.

Are the premises true or faulty?

Rhetorical Essay StructureIntroductionPurpose, audience,

strategiesTone

◦ Diction◦ Syntax◦ Figurative language

Rhetorical Strategy

Conclusion

1. Write clearly 2. Be specific –

give examples3. Tell the reader

what you are going to write about, write it, then sum it up.