In “What is Rhetoric?” the author is employing rhetorical strategies for functions beyond the obvious objective of defining rhetoric. In particular, the author attempts to establish her credibility as a member of the academic community, thereby strengthening her authority on the subject of rhetoric.
The author begins by noting the many varying definitions of rhetoric, but authors her own definition, “as a scholar of rhetoric.” While she does link to a Stanford webpage, which now redirects to the homepage, most of her argument stems from her own definition. This implies the authority held by the author on the subject of rhetoric.
Further, the author also replies to feedback, answering questions in definite terms, again implying her authority on the subject. In this instance, however, she interacts directly with her audience, breaking the barrier between author and audience, who she feels qualified to educate.
This article contains many large assertions, such as the definition of rhetoric and its most moral method of use. The very publishing of the article functions to establish the author’s credibility on the subject of rhetoric.
