This Assignment Asks You To Produce A Thesis-Driven Analysis

This assignment asks you to produce a thesis-driven analysis

This assignment asks you to produce a thesis-driven analysis, complemented by secondary sources, of an aspect of rhetoric in an assigned text. Length: words, typed, double-spaced, and presented in MLA format. A minimum of three (3) secondary sources, not including the primary text being analyzed, must be used to develop the essay. A works cited page with source annotations will be required as part of the final draft. Process work must be submitted to your instructor in order for the final draft to be graded.

Paper For Above instruction

The goal of this essay is to analyze a specific aspect of rhetoric within an assigned text by developing a clear, focused thesis. The analysis should demonstrate a deep understanding of rhetorical strategies used by the author, supported by secondary sources that contextualize or critique these strategies. The primary text serves as the foundation for the analysis, while the secondary sources provide scholarly perspectives that enrich the discussion.

To begin, choose a particular rhetorical device, strategy, or aspect—such as ethos, pathos, logos, diction, tone, or organization—that is prominent or effective in the primary text. Develop a thesis statement that argues how this element functions within the text to persuade, inform, or influence the audience. The thesis should be specific and debatable, guiding the structure of the essay.

Research at least three credible secondary sources—academic articles, books, or reputable online resources—that discuss rhetorical analysis, the primary text, or the broader context of the topic. These sources should be integrated into your analysis to support your claims, provide differing perspectives, or offer theoretical frameworks. Proper MLA citation of all sources, including the primary text, will be required in both in-text citations and the works cited page.

Structure the essay with an introduction that introduces the primary text and your thesis, body paragraphs that analyze specific rhetorical elements with evidence from the text and secondary sources, and a conclusion that summarizes your findings and reflects on the significance of the rhetorical strategies employed.

For the final submission, include a works cited page with source annotations, explaining the relevance of each secondary source to your analysis. Your process work—drafts, outlines, notes—must be submitted to demonstrate your engagement with the research and writing process. This assignment aims to develop critical reading, research, and analytical skills within the framework of rhetorical analysis.

References

  • Bitzer, L. F. (1968). The rhetorical situation. Philosophy & Rhetoric, 1(1), 1-14.
  • Burke, K. (1969). A rhetoric of motives. University of California Press.
  • Foss, S. K., & Foss, K. A. (2011). Rhetorical criticism: Exploration and practice. Waveland Press.
  • Herrick, J. A. (2019). The history and theory of rhetoric: An introduction. Routledge.
  • Olson, K. (2009). Rhetorical criticism: Exploration and practice. Routledge.
  • Perelman, C., & Olbrechts-Tyteca, L. (1969). The new rhetoric: A treatise on argumentation. University of Notre Dame Press.
  • Schmalstieg, W. R. (2014). Rhetoric and democracy: Essays on the political uses of persuasion. Michigan State University Press.
  • Vatz, R. E. (1973). The myth of the rhetorical situation. Philosophy & Rhetoric, 6(3), 154-161.
  • Wonderful, E. (2014). Rhetorical strategies in modern political discourse. Journal of Public Speaking, 23(4), 215-231.
  • Young, R. (2008). Communication in the age of rhetoric. Oxford University Press.

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