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The Modern Scholar presents: Way With Words – Writing, Rethoric, and the Art of PersuasionProduct description at Modern ScholarQuote:In A Way with Words: Writing, Rhetoric, and the Art of Persuasion, esteemed professor Michael D.C. Drout brings his expertise in literary studies to the subject of rhetoric. From history-altering political speeches to friendly debates at cocktail parties, rhetoric holds the power to change opinions, spark new thoughts, and ultimately change the world. The study of rhetoric not only leads to a greater understanding of how personages such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill elevated the power of speech to majestic heights, but also to a stronger proficiency in using rhetoric in anyone’s day-to-day life. Professor Drout examines the types of rhetoric and their effects, the structure of effective arguments, and how subtleties of language can be employed to engage in more successful rhetoric. Drout also ponders the role of rhetoric in our world and the ageold question of whether it is just a tool for convincing people of things that aren’t true, or whether it is indeed a force for good that will ultimately lead to truth.Course SyllabusLecture 1   How to Do Things with Words: Rhetoric and Speech-Act Theory: How Words Can Change RealityLecture 2   Rhetoric, Sophistry, and PhilosophyLecture 3    AudienceLecture 4    Structures of Effective ArgumentsLecture 5    The EnthymemeLecture 6    The Rhetoric of Logic: Truth and SyllogismsLecture 7    Logical FallaciesLecture 8    Logos, Ethos, PathosLecture 9    Figures of Speech I: SchemesLecture 10    Figures of Speech II: TropesLecture 11    Grammar I: SyntaxLecture 12    Grammar II: Structure, Punctuation (Pause and Effect)Lecture 13    Subtleties: Word Choice, Speech Patterns, AccentLecture 14    Rhetorical Train Wrecks and Triumphs