SPEE 442: 20th Century Public Argument

Course Description

This class will examine and critically analyze several of the most significant speeches, movements, and rhetorical artifacts of the twentieth century. Through lectures, discussions, and analysis of speeches and other texts, we will focus on the relationship between rhetoric and history, and how theories of rhetorical action help us appreciate the role of discourse in the effective functioning of a democratic system. Emphasis will be placed on case studies (both social movements and other persuasive enterprises) that illustrate the theory and practice of persuasion and how citizens and institutions employ persuasive strategies and tactics to effect and resist change in their community and society at large. (YR).