COMM4500 — History of Rhetoric
Rhetoric has a long and storied history. This course surveys that rich history from ancient to contemporary times. The course aims at developing understanding of key figures, events, and concepts in rhetoric's history to reflect on the role that all kinds of symbolic action play in the lives of societies, polities, and individuals. Together we will examine enduring philosophical issues in the study of public argument. Students will gain practical tools for understanding public communication and the analysis of rhetorical texts.