Explorations in Rhetorical Criticism

In this first volume of original essays on rhetorical criticism to appear in many years, the authors stress active engagement in the critical process. Bearing in mind the complaint frequently leveled at rhetorical criticism—that method as method has taken precedence over understanding and appreciation—the editors encouraged innovation, and the contributors responded by moving beyond the merely theoretical to explore implications through implied criticism, participating in the activity rather than merely talking about it. Consequently, these essays avoid further lamentation over the current state of the art and concentrate instead on constructive presentations.

Not only do the essays add significantly to knowledge about rhetorical criticism, but they also serve liberal education by helping to bring understanding, discrimination, and appreciation to the entire process of human communication.