Rhetoric and the Public Sphere

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This lively and engaging course provides an introduction to rhetoric and the public sphere, exploring how communication is used to shape the minds and actions of individuals and the broader public. The class traces the development of rhetoric and public discourse from its origins in ancient Greece, China, Italy and Egypt, to its new and exciting uses right now in narrative, dramatic, musical, visual, political, and digital contexts. Students will have the opportunity to study rhetorical theorists from each era and to begin practicing rhetorical criticism. Students will also have a better understanding of who they are and how they can shape community and culture.