Prerequisite, RPA 301. Application of communication and rhetorical theory to various contexts of the American political system. Particular emphasis placed upon presidential, congressional, and corporate communicative activities, including campaigning and enacting legislation. First semester, three hours. Study of principles for better analysis of the audience, the message, and the speaker.
Emphasis is placed on logical thought to reinforce communicative skills.
Second semester, three hours. Prerequisite, RPA 201. Critical historical study of speeches and speaking careers of outstanding religious and political figures from Jonathan Edwards to William Jennings Bryan. Second semester, odd-numbered years, three hours. Critical historical study of speeches and speaking careers of outstanding religious and political figures from William Jennings Bryan to the present.