The Rhetoric Department will offer the following courses in the Fall 2021 semester. Contact Department Chair, Dr. Sean O’Rourke, with questions at sporourk@sewanee.edu or contact the course professors directly.
RHET 101: Public Speaking
Dr. Sean O’Rourke
T/Th 3:00-4:15pm
Rev. Warren Swenson
W 2:00-4:30pm
Study of the principles, precepts, and strategies of informative, persuasive, and ceremonial speaking. Emphasis is placed on assessing the rhetorical situation and researching, composing, practicing, and delivering a speech. Ethical, political, and social questions raised by speaking in public are considered. Students deliver speeches, practice effective listening, and serve as speech critics and interlocutors.
RHET 201: Introduction to Rhetoric
Dr. Sean O’Rourke
T/Th 1:30-2:45pm
Topical survey of the major questions and controversies in rhetorical theory, criticism, and practice, including rhetorical situations, classical canons of rhetoric, the role of rhetoric in civic life, and the relationship of rhetoric to power, politics, law, education, and ethics. Students consider the rights and responsibilities of speakers and critics. Accordingly, readings include selections from a wide array of rhetorical theorists and critics as well as a diverse and open canon of orators and speakers.
RHET 491: Topics in Propaganda
Dr. Robert Gaines
M 2:00-4:30pm
This course explores contemporary theories and techniques of propaganda and their implications for rhetorical practice.
