Analysis of the Rhetorical Situation for Adoption

Toward the end of his illustrious career as a statesman, Daniel Webster (1782-1852) reflected upon his life's professional accomplishments. Webster is purported to have mused, “Were I to lose everything I had, save one, I would hold onto my ability to speak in public for with that I could regain all I had lost” (Lucas, pp. 78-89). Oratory, eloquence, persuasion, public speaking, public discourse, rhetoric—regardless of which term is used, the ability for individuals to articulately shape and express their ideas through oral communication has been and continues to be a critical tool to enhance ...