Rhetorical Analysis of a Word/Phrase: Cultural Contexts

Purpose- demonstrate a solid understanding of rhetoric and the six rhetorical concepts and how they can be used for a rhetorical analysis through a well composed academic an essay.

Length: 1000 words
Sources: You must include at least one quote from the Rhetoric Theory Lecture material found on Canvas (no more than two). Bibliographic info for each source is found at the end of the page.
You will use NO other outside sources (essays that do so will lose points)

Prompt: For this essay I want you to think of a single word OR phrase that can have multiple meanings depending on the context. You will use that word/phrase as a means to discuss the rhetorical concepts reviewed during class (argument, speaker, audience, medium, platform, and context). You’ll need to include a solid introduction, conclusion, and body paragraphs which will all have smooth transitions that illustrate intentional and logical organization. You will explain what your word/phrase is (briefly), and each of the rhetorical concepts (also briefly). The majority of your essay will focus on how different cultural contexts impact specific interpretations of your word/phrase which you will provide evidence for through the use of hypothetical examples (remember how Dr. C discussed her own example during class).

Research Question: What does rhetorical analysis with a direct focus on cultural contexts specifically suggest about possible interpretations of the word/phrase you chose to discuss in your essay?
Your thesis statement will be the answer to this question

Warnings:
*The word or phrase you choose needs to be something that you are personally familiar with- NOT something you searched for on the internet. So-if/when I ask you about it you need to be able to discuss it with me comfortably without looking at notes.
*Essays that quote or use any type or dictionary or encyclopedia to define any terms (including Wikipedia and dictionary web pages), such as the word/phrase you choose and the rhetorical concepts will be docked 25% no exceptions
*Remember- you are using these rhetorical concepts within an academic setting focused on rhetorical analysis. That means it is important that you rely on information from the class lectures rather than the internet to gain an understanding of them. The internet is often incorrect when it comes to academic terminology.
*Remember the purpose of this essay is to demonstrate your ability to understand rhetoric and use the terms correctly. This is NOT an essay centered around the word/phrase you chose. That word/phrase is merely just a way for you to show off how well you understand the “rhetoric” stuff. Do not get too focused on the word/phrase and leave out the rhetoric- essays that do so will fail.