Analysis Paper Assignment

Description

Choose a rhetorical artifact (e.g. speeches, town-hall discussions, sermons, letters, art work, music, media texts, online sources, commercials/ advertisements) and analyze it by applying relevant rhetorical theories covered in class and beyond. The artifact can be from a classical period or drawn from contemporary societies. It can also come from a different culture or tradition (e.g. rhetoric of women, minority/marginalized groups, nonwestern culture). This chosen artifact (or links to the artifact) must be attached to the paper.

Your paper is expected to have the following components:

Background information of the artifact to be analyzed (e.g. social/political contexts, cultural environment, dominant cultural values, contesting or resisting voices, rhetorical practice and perceptions on rhetorical practices). Describe the contexts or background information relevant to the chosen artifact. If you choose a speech, make sure you offer background information of the speaker.

Explanations of relevant rhetorical theories, theorists, and concepts to be used. Use the readings from the textbook and reading packet as well as 3-5 sources outside the class readings. The artifact itself does not count as a source.

An analysis of the rhetorical effects of the artifact by applying the appropriate rhetorical theories and concepts. Illustrate why you think the artifact is effective or ineffective in terms of its ethical, emotional, and logical appeals; what is the impact or consequences the artifacts on society, collective groups or individuals; what is the motive of the rhetor (the person or group who produced the rhetorical artifact). This should be the major portion of your paper.

Implications and reflections on the current challenges of rhetorical practices and development of rhetorical theories. Point out ways rhetorical theories and practices can be improved for well-being of society and humanity.

The paper should be 6-8 pages in length, typed, and double spaced.