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Summer and Fall 2025 Registration window opens March 17.

TCID 685 Rhetorical Theory

Rhetorical theory can be loosely defined as the theory of effective communication. This course begins with a review of key figures and texts in the history of Western rhetoric, while also introducing some non-Western rhetorical traditions. It then turns to more contemporary issues, including the rhetoric of visual messages and electronic media, feminist rhetoric, and the politics of technical rhetoric. Questions addressed include: What is the relationship of rhetoric to morality? What are the social and political constraints on any rhetorical act?

Special information

Note: Formerly known as WRIT 685.
18 Credit Credentialing Pathways
4 Graduate credits

Effective May 4, 2021 to present

Meets graduation requirements for

Learning outcomes

General

  • Understand historical development of current rhetorical theory
  • Analyze primary and secondary sources
  • Analyze various forms of communication using rhetorical theory
  • Produce rhetorical communication using rhetorical theory