Fall, Spring
This course introduces students to the history of the study of oral public discourse, the development of classical rhetoric, narrative and the performance of classical texts, and the distinction between orality and literacy in the construction of narrative. The course explores the impact of the development of the printing press, publishing and journalism on the construction, dissemination and reception of messages by audiences. Comparisons are made between the various communication contexts and their role in shaping spoken or written rhetorical "texts."