Histories and Theories of Rhetoric

RHET 005—Histories and Theories of Rhetoric

Midterm Exam

Fall 2013

 

Please answer the following questions.  Answers should be typed, double-spaced.

 

1. Plato argued that rhetoric was not an art (techne) but that it was rather a knack, or at best a skill.  Artistotle, among others, argued that rhetoric was an art.  What were Plato’s major arguments against rhetoric, and how does Aristotle answer them? 50 pts. (Hint:  Be sure to consider what Aristotle says generally about the nature and function of rhetoric and what he says specifically about the practice of rhetoric.)  [Your answer should be 1000 to 1200 words]

 

2.     Gorgias and Protagoras were arguably the most influential of the sophists.  How are they similar and how are they different approach to rhetoric? 25 pts. [600-750 words]

3.     Cicero argued that a citizen should be both wise and eloquent.  How does Roman rhetoric, as developed by Cicero and Quintilian, define and address this goal?  25 pts. [600-750 words]

 

Be sure to include references to specific authors, works, and concepts from course readings and discussion in your answer.