Canons

The Five Canons of Rhetoric

Definition: A framework for creating and delivering persuasive speeches and written works. Formulated by Aristotle and other Greek rhetoricians, they remain foundational in the study of rhetoric.

Invention (Inventio)

1. • Definition: Develop arguments & find ways to persuade the target audience. Discovering the means of persuasion and generating content.

   • Purpose: Identify the most appealing content, topics, and arguments to persuade the target audience and achieve the speaker's purpose.

   • Techniques: Brainstorming, research, outlining, mind-mapping, gathering evidence, and considering different rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos).

Arrangement (Dispositio)

1. • Definition: Organizing content, text structures, argument strategies, and argument types. It involves determining the most effective order and sequence of ideas.

   • Purpose: Compose coherent, logical, and persuasive arguments. A well-arranged text enhances clarity and audience comprehension enhancing the likelihood of successful persuasion.

   • Components: Common organizational patterns include Narration, Exemplification, Cause & Effect, Compare & Contrast, concession, refutation, & counterargument.

Style (Elocutio)

1. • Definition: Choice of language & rhetorical devices used to present an argument. Selecting words, phrases, and figures of speech to clarify the message and enhance persuasive effectiveness.

   • Purpose: To make the argument more engaging, memorable, and appealing to the audience. Good style adapts to the audience's expectations and the context of the communication.

   • Elements: Clarity, correctness, appropriateness, ornamentation, tone, and the use of rhetorical devices such as metaphors, similes, and parallelism.

Memory (Memoria)

1. • Definition: Memorizing the speech or content to be delivered. In classical rhetoric, this was essential for giving speeches without notes.

   • Purpose: To deliver the speech confidently and smoothly, without relying on written texts. A good memory allows the speaker to maintain eye contact and engage with the audience.

   • Techniques: Using mnemonic devices, practicing, and organizing the speech in a way that makes it easier to remember.

Delivery (Pronuntiatio)

1. • Definition: Physical and vocal presentation of the argument. Using voice, gestures, facial expressions, and body language to communicate and persuade.

   • Purpose: To effectively convey the message and engage the audience. Good delivery enhances the persuasive impact of the speech and helps maintain the audience's attention.

   • Elements: Volume, pitch, pace, tone, eye contact, posture, and gestures. Effective delivery adapts to the audience's reactions and the context of the speech.