Rhetoric

In An Introduction To Rhetoric Foss explains rhetoric to be a combination of symbols and expressions that are used daily and date back to B.C. times to express and understand ourselves and others. Foss goes on to say "To clarify this definition, we will discuss each of the key components of this definition- human, symbols, and communicate." (Pg.1). Even before humans were able to communicate with one another, because of language barriers, they used symbols to communicate. Fire is a symbol with multiple meanings; it represents the possibility of destruction and also the feeling of warmth and the means to cook food for survival.

In the reading Corax was one of the first people to understand the necessity to teach and understand rhetoric. He sought after the use of it in court rooms and wrote a treatise called the "Art of Rhetoric". (Pg.5). Even though there was never a copy of his work recovered we understand that he was the first to introduction the three major parts of writing. Rhetoric has a major importance even in today’s court rooms. Ones argument is important to winning a case which is another basis for rhetoric. And a lawyer will have an opening argument, his proof and a closing statement, which is a perfect example of Corax use of major parts of writing.

Rhetoric today is seen all over the world in the use of symbols. One of the major uses of it is sign language. Also the way children communicate to their parents before learning how to verbally communicate is through signs they make and symbols they use. To me an object that is a great symbol to me is sand, because it represents vacation.

Rhetoric

1 : the art of speaking or writing effectively

2 a : skill in the effective use of speech

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. 2010.