Rhetorical Analysis of Terror

Rhetorical Analysis of Terror

The focus: if the intent of the director (his PURPOSE) is to instill dread/suspense, what techniques/strategies are most effective?

Remember to identify the evidence (in this case, screenshots will suffice)

As we head into Halloween weekend, let's prime our spirits with the techniques of suspense! I posted 6 spooky spoopy short films for you to break down for its effect. We have considered patterns of arrangement (how a speaker structures a text) as a rhetorical choice (i.e. Obama's speech opening with a story as opposed to, say, rhetorical appeals or devices). For this assignment, consider how the arrangement of a text (yes, a film is considered a "text" here) contributes to the desired effect in the audience. In this case, creating and amplifying dread/suspense if the goal (purpose).

1. Watch the short films with notes in hand ready to find the formula for suspense. Find the techniques that create this suspense in the audience. If you are faint of heart...only watch H-K.

2. On the shared Slideshow posted in Classroom and here, you will present 3 distinct technique/strategies evident in the short films. Use as many screenshots to support your observation. Why does it work? Be ready to present! Respond to Classroom question as well as practice rhetorical analysis.

By including/introducing/blending/focusing/ (x), the director increases __________ in the audience. This technique/strategy works because the audience _____________.