Rhetoric Analysis

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Compose the thesis statement and topic sentences for it and identify each of the THREE chosen elements of the rhetorical situation in which the text was created (rhetor, context, exigence, audience, constraints, text, as well as the rhetorical appeals used in it).

Get more specific. For each item on your outline/list, include its definition in your own words, its description, and the importance or relevance of that specific element in that specific text. This means that each section will be more like a substantial paragraph and less like a sentence or two. As an example, in the section discussing a rhetor you could write, Rhetor is Walt Mossberg; however, such response does not meet the requirements because it lacks your required definition of the term rhetor as well as your discussion of that rhetorical element and its role in the text.

Consider what you discovered rhetorically about the article by completing this rhetorical analysis. Add this brief concluding reflection of 300-400 words to your writing, explaining the value of performing this kind of analysis.

Keep in mind that you are not being asked to discuss or summarize the subject of plastic straws and their environmental impact or even Alice Wong, but your reaction to applying rhetoric to reading and analyzing Wong’s article.

Sample Solution

Rhetorical Analysis of Alice Wong’s Article on Plastic Straws

This analysis will dissect the rhetorical elements of Alice Wong’s article on plastic straws, focusing on the interplay between the rhetor, context, exigence, and the message conveyed.

Rhetorical Elements:

  1. Rhetor: The rhetor refers to the person who creates the message. In this case, it’s Alice Wong, a disability activist and author. Her lived experience with a disability shapes her perspective on the plastic straw ban and positions her as an authority figure on the issue of ableism within environmental activism.
  2. Context: The context encompasses the surrounding circumstances that influence the creation of the message. Wong’s article likely appeared in a publication catering to a disability rights or social justice audience. This context informs the language used and the assumptions made about the reader’s prior knowledge.
  3. Exigence: The exigence refers to the situation or problem that motivates the rhetor to create the message. Here, the exigence is the growing movement towards banning plastic straws as a solution to plastic pollution. Wong argues that this movement overlooks the needs of disabled individuals who rely on plastic straws for basic functions.
  4. Audience: The audience refers to the intended receivers of the message. While the broader environmental movement might be a general target, Wong’s specific audience is likely disability rights advocates and policymakers who might influence decisions related to straw bans.

Rhetorical Appeals:

The effectiveness of Wong’s argument hinges on her use of rhetorical appeals:

  • Logos (Logical Appeal): Wong presents statistics on disability demographics and the reliance on plastic straws by some individuals. This data provides a logical basis for her argument against a blanket ban.
  • Pathos (Emotional Appeal): Wong describes the challenges faced by disabled people without access to straws, evoking empathy and highlighting the potential negative consequences of the ban on a marginalized community.
  • Ethos (Ethical Appeal): By speaking from the perspective of a disabled person, Wong establishes credibility and positions herself as someone directly impacted by the issue.

Reflection on Rhetorical Analysis

Performing a rhetorical analysis of Alice Wong’s article illuminates the complexities of communication and persuasion. By dissecting the elements within the text, we gain a deeper understanding of the author’s purpose, the intended audience, and the underlying context that shapes the message.

Here’s why this analysis is valuable:

  • Unveiling Hidden Biases: By analyzing the rhetor and context, we can identify potential biases or assumptions that might influence the message. In Wong’s case, exposing the potential ableism within the environmental movement allows for a more nuanced discussion.
  • Understanding Audience: Analyzing the audience helps tailor the message and choose appropriate language and appeals. Wong’s targeted approach ensures her arguments resonate with those who can influence policy decisions.
  • Effective Communication: Understanding the rhetorical elements allows for crafting more compelling messages. By employing a combination of logic, emotion, and ethical positioning, Wong effectively advocates for the rights of disabled individuals within the environmental conversation.

In conclusion, rhetorical analysis equips us with the tools to critically examine the messages we encounter. It allows us to move beyond the surface level and appreciate the intricate interplay between context, author, audience, and the persuasive techniques employed within a text. This deeper understanding fosters more informed engagement with the world around us and empowers us to participate in meaningful conversations.

 

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