Throughout this week's chapter reading, you see the author gives the reader's tips on how to express words in an argument or persuasion. Rhetorical style has so much to do with the way we choose to write or speak. One of the big things that stood out to me is realizing in a rhetorical sense it's not much about self-expression as it is dealing with the audience's expression. To help us understand this idea a little more, the author gives us five virtues and vices that have been known to help get that point across.
The first virtue that they talk about is proper language. You want to make sure that the words or language you are using relates to the audience and they understand what you are saying. You should stray away from different languages or vocabulary words that are not mostly understood by everyone. This will create the audience from not losing attention while you are trying to get your point across.
The second virtue is clarity. You want to make sure you are not throwing in too much "fluff" into your dialogue. This may lose the attention of the main topic and confuse the audience.
The third virtue is vividness. This is one that may be more difficult for some people more than others. You have to have the skill to create a rhetorical reality before the audience's eyes. You want to create a picture for the audience and something that they do not forget.
The forth is the most important virtue. This virtue is decorum. This is mostly trying to fit in with the audience. You should not try to talk a different way, or act like you know what you're talking about when you really don't. You should stick to your roots and state facts. This will help the audience have more credibility with you and it makes you more persuasive.
The fifth and final virtue is ornament. This focuses on the the cleverness in your words and rhythm of your voice. People tend to listen to you more if you have a nice voice and talk at a good pace. This is important for the audience. You want people to like listening to you.
I like your post and how you went into detail about each virtue. I think it is funny that the first virtue states that you need to use a language that everyone understands. Like yes, I'm going to give an important presentation and speak Italian even though we are in America, sounds like a perfect way to get my point across.
ReplyDeleteI read this one right I read the post about Cicero's five cannons and I find it interesting because there are parallels between the two. They both explain how you need clarity and proper language in the speech otherwise the audience will not understand. Also, both mention how it is important to have decorum and ornament.
ReplyDeleteI think this post explains each virtue so well. All of these are so important in not only writing, but life. For example, properness and cleverness are things that make life a bit easier; having etiquette can take you far and being clever makes it fun!
ReplyDelete