For this project, you will select a major rhetorical term/concept that we have engaged with or will engage with in class. (Mine is INTERANIMATION) You will then conduct a researched analysis of this term and its use throughout the history of rhetoric.
Questions to explore in your analysis include:
How has the term traditionally been defined in rhetorical studies? How has that definition changed or expanded over time?
Which theorists have had the most to say about this term?
In what ways do various theories about this term differ?
And, most importantly, why is this term significant to rhetoric?
In essence, you need to explore what this term offers us in terms of understanding, analyzing, and critiquing rhetoric. Additionally, you may wish to provide examples of this term in action in order to explain its significance or even offer complications of the term that you believe rhetorical studies have not adequately addressed. While this assignment affords you much leeway in how you complete this task, it is vital that you not only define your term and trace its history—your analysis should offer insight into how this term influences rhetorical theory as well as the everyday practice of rhetoric. Think in terms of offering an introduction to the term that could be useful to other students.
Clearly define the key term, and provide information about whether/how that definition has changed over time.
Provide some historical context for the term’s use and significance to the study of rhetoric.
Be sure to highlight theories and theorists most associated with your term and explain their similarities and differences. Give examples with explanations.
Cite at least three sources using current APA style guidelines.
Your final product may take the form of a written essay (minimum of 800 words)
