Elements Of Rhetoric - Softcover

Richard Whately

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0371940850 ISBN 13: 9780371940853

Publisher: HardPress, 2021

Synopsis

Elements Of Rhetoric: Comprising An Analysis Of The Laws Of Moral Evidence And Of Persuasion, With Rules For Argumentative Composition And Elocution by Richard Whately is a practical handbook that treats rhetoric as an extension of logic: orderly argument and clear instruction are essential to convincing others. The work outlines a rule-based approach to invention, arrangement, introduction, and the construction of proofs, distinguishing propositions from premises and exploring a priori and a posteriori forms of reasoning, testimony, examples, induction, and analogy. It cautions against sophistry, excessive refutation, or professional bias, and it emphasizes audience awareness, ethical persuasion, and the authority of character. Whately argues for a balanced program that values clear reasoning and purposeful emotion, learning through outlines and systematic practice while allowing skilled writers to deviate from rules when warranted. Style, perspicuity, and delivery are treated as integral to effective communication, with attention to pacing, audience, and the distinction between energy and elegance. Part I establishes foundations; subsequent parts extend to style, delivery, and practical rhetoric across genres.

Edition details

• Publisher: HardPress
• Publication date: 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0371940850
• ISBN 13: 9780371940853
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 568