topic for rhetorical essay

210 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Table of contents

• 1 What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?
• 2 How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?
• 3 Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Topics
• 4 Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For High School Students
• 5 Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students
• 6 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Education
• 7 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Literature
• 8 Rhetorical Analysis Topics List on Speeches
• 9 Visual Rhetorical Essay Topics
• 10 Topics for a Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Society
• 11 Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on a Person
• 12 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Philosophy
• 13 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on History
• 14 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Business
• 15 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Government
• 16 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Culture
• 17 Conclusion

With any rhetorical analysis essay writing, effective communication is everything. If you’re a student or want to elevate your persuasive skills, learning how to engage your readers is the first step.

When it comes to selecting thought-provoking rhetorical analysis topics, where do you begin? This is where a wise companion in PapersOwl comes in handy. With this seasoned guide, you can easily navigate the complex world of rhetorical analysis. Until then, take a look at our extensive collection of topics that’ll get your creative juices flowing.

We have created a list of 210 essays that will inspire you to craft a powerful academic essay. These rhetorical analysis paper topics cater to all skill levels too.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

This type of analysis essay identifies the rhetorical devices and strategies used by an author, all while highlighting how they have used words to sway their audience.

For example, a rhetorical paper looks at an influential political speech through purpose, key claims, and tone. In an essay, students cover by following a structured approach.

• Introduction. Students present the text, author, and thesis statement. These outline the main argument or points of the analysis.
• Main body paragraphs. These delve into specific strategies, appeals, and devices to support the analysis. Make your essay authentic by keeping it true to the facts.
• Conclusion. The end wraps up the essay by summarizing the main points. It will also discuss the effectiveness of the persuasive techniques.

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

Finding the right topic comes down to writing about something you’re familiar with. This is because you’ll need to showcase insightful analysis to write a rhetorical analysis essay successfully. The best way to do this is to make sure the rhetorical topics you pick are something you’re interested in.

Tip 1. Start by identifying the rhetorical situation essay topics that interest you. This will make background research and thematic analysis that much more enjoyable. Then ask yourself:

• What subjects or themes are intriguing for you to rhetorically analyze?
• Are there specific rhetorical analysis example topics in your field of study that you excel in or are passionate about?
• Have you studied similar subjects or texts in the past that might help your rhetorical analysis assignment ideas come to life?

Tip 2. Choose from rhetorical analysis ideas that match your interests and expertise. Select rhetoric research paper topics relevant to your course or subject area. And make sure there is enough information to write a defined argument. It needs to be complex enough to allow a thorough literary analysis of the themes and the most valuable rhetorical strategies.

Tip 3. Make sure the rhetorical analysis paper topic is suitable. It will need to meet the expectations of rhetorical analysis topics. This means highlighting the importance symbolism plays in the author’s message.

• Is there enough emotional depth and background research for you to work with?
• Can you cover the rhetorical situation within the word limit?
• Is it interesting enough to engage your reader?

Need help with essay writing? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Here, you’ll rhetorically analyze two texts by similarities, differences, and effectiveness. Sometimes, though, a critical eye is needed. This is when students seek a reputable analytical essay writing service like PapersOwl for help. Here you’ll find expert advice on the most effective academic writing so that you can study with peace of mind.

• The Persuasive Techniques Used By Martin Luther King Jr. And Malcolm X In Their Speeches.
• Does Innovation Outweigh Invention?
• Washington Vs. Lincoln.
• What Is Better For The Economy: Traditional Postal Service Or Email?
• The Persuasive Techniques Of Apple And Samsung In Advertisements.
• The Persuasive Devices Of President Biden’s Speech Vs. President Obama’s Speech.
• Classical Conditioning Or Operant Conditioning. Which Is More Practical?
• The Art Of The Greeks And The Romans.
• What Drives Business Growth In 2023. E-Commerce Or Traditional?
• Education Or Life Without It?
• The Use Of Persuasion In Barack Obama’s And Donald Trump’s Presidential Speeches.
• Command Economy Or The Free Market.
• Philosophy Vs. Religion.
• Ethos, Pathos, And Logos In Op-Ed Articles By Conservative And Liberal Columnists.
• Persuasive Techniques Used In Public Service Announcements On Smoking And Drug Abuse.

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For High School Students

These easy rhetorical analysis topics encourage students to examine all forms of communication. A rhetorical analysis essay requires looking at written texts, acceptance speeches, or visuals.

It will also help you develop critical thinking skills by understanding how language is used to achieve a particular goal.

• A Rhetorical Analysis On The Meaning Of Mona Lisa’s Smile.
• How William Shakespeare Became Known As The Greatest Writer In The World.
• The Final Speech Of Martin Luther King Jr.
• The Reasons For WW2.
• Novels And Movies About “Frankenstein”: Similarities And Differences.
• The Impact Of Electronic Media On Culture.
• Why Do Films And TV Fail to Capture The Full Essence Of The Books They Are Based On?
• Heroism As Defined By J. K. Rowling And J. R. R. Tolkien.
• A Detailed Analysis Of TV And Online Advertisement.
• The Power Of Social Media: A Rhetoric Paper
• How Sherlock Holmes Is Perceived On TV And Why Not Everyone Likes Him.
• Why Do People Write Fan Fiction?
• My School Principal’s Speech.
• William Shakespeare’s “Romeo And Juliet”: An Analysis.
• Why Are Dogs Known As “Man’s Best Friend”?

Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students

These detailed rhetorical analysis topics cover complex primary themes and issues. Through rhetorical analysis, college students learn how language sends a message.

You’ll also improve your own persuasive writing skills by looking at the different types of rhetorical analysis.

• The Use Of Parallelism, Repetition, And Allusion In Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” Speech.
• Do Women Or Men React Better To Media Advertisement Messages?
• How Does Online Content Manipulate Persuasive Devices?
• What Effect Does Music Have On Film And TV?
• The Persuasive Devices Of The American National Anthem.
• Symbolism In Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings”.
• How Syrian Politics Sparked War.
• The Persuasive Techniques Used In A Popular Advertisement Or Commercial.
• Why Are Ted Talks So Popular?
• How Does An Influential Newspaper Editorial Manipulate Rhetoric Devices To Benefit Its Argument?
• My Favorite Poem By William Shakespeare.
• The Impact Of A Popular Social Media Influencer’s Posts Or Videos.
• Rhetorical Devices In Famous Song Lyrics
• The Use Of Metaphor In A Speech From Your School Director On Graduation Day.
• The Effectiveness Of Rhetoric Devices In A Well-Known Op-Ed Or Opinion Piece.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Education

An essay topic on education looks at different forms of communication. You’ll analyze the author’s purpose, as well as their emotional appeal.

All while understanding the nuances of educational discussions and elevating your analytical skills.

• Education System And Educational Technologies .
• Importance Of Time Management Skills .
• Integration Of America’s Public Schools .
• Standardized Testing In Measuring Students’ Academic Performance.
• A Detailed Analysis Essay On The “No Child Left Behind” Policy.
• The Persuasive Techniques Used In Debates Surrounding Homeschooling Versus Traditional Schooling.
• An Analysis Essay On The Proponents And Opponents Of School Vouchers.
• The Language And Persuasive Strategies Used In Promoting Stem Education In Schools.
• An Analysis Essay On Inclusive Education And Its Impact On Special Needs.
• The Arguments For And Against Implementing Technology In The Classroom.
• The Role Of Standardized Curricula In Fostering Critical Thinking And Creativity In Students.
• Promoting Social-Emotional Learning In Schools.
• The Role Of Teachers’ Unions In Shaping Educational Policies And Outcomes.
• Examining Peer Research Papers On The Arguments For And Against Implementing School Uniforms.
• How Policymakers Use Rhetorical Devices To Debate How Teachers’ Unions Shape Education.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Literature

Authors, poets, and playwrights use a variety of forms of communication in their literary works. Through them, you’ll learn how authors create meaningful literary pieces and gain an appreciation of novels rhetorical strategies.

• Symbolism And Literary Devices In “The Lord Of The Rings” Trilogy.
• The Significance Of Stream-Of-Consciousness Narrative Style In Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”.
• The Literary Texts Of William Shakespeare.
• Examine The Use Of Rhetorical Devices In A Famous Poem, Such As Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise”.
• What Does Solitude Symbolize In 21st-Century Literary Texts Compared To The 20th Century?
• Analyzing The Persuasive Strategies Used By Simone De Beauvoir In “The Second Sex”.
• A Detailed Analysis Essay On The Primary Themes Present In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”.
• Different Rhetorical Devices In “The Bible”.
• The Rhetoric Devices And Symbolism Of Stephen King.
• The Power Of Symbolism And Metaphor In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”.
• The Literary Devices Of “Pride And Prejudice” And How They’re Still Relevant Today.
• Gender And Power In Jane Austen’s “Pride And Prejudice”.
• Romanticism In William Wordsworth’s Poem “Tintern Abbey”.
• How Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” Confronts Issues Of Racial Injustice
• The Influence Of Gothic Elements In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” And “The Fall Of The House Of Usher”.

Rhetorical Analysis Topics List on Speeches

The speech topics for an analysis essay focus on analyzing the elements of a speech. You’ll go deep into the speaker’s choice of words, tone, delivery style, use of rhetorical devices, and the structure of the speech.

By evaluating these components, a detailed rhetorical analysis reveals the speaker’s underlying strategies. Then you can explain how the techniques engage, persuade, and inspire their target audience.

• Rhetorical Analysis Of Barack Obama’s Victory Speech .
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Speeches By Greta Thunberg And David Attenborough.
• The 1588 Speech By Queen Elizabeth on The Spanish Armada.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Susan B. Anthony’s “On Women’s Right To Vote” Speech.
• Commencement Speeches By Influential Figures Like Steve Jobs And Oprah Winfrey.
• The Role Of Emotional Appeal In Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Winston Churchill In His “We Shall Fight On The Beaches” Speech.
• An Examination Of Logos In John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address.
• The Persuasive Power Of Repetition In The Famous “Yes We Can” Speech By Barack Obama.
• How Rhetorical Devices Vary In Nelson Mandela’s “Long Walk To Freedom” Speech.
• The Effectiveness Of Analogy And Anecdote In Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Address.
• The Impact Of Tone And Pacing In George Washington’s Resignation Speech.
• The Use Of Persuasive Strategies In Malcolm X’s “The Ballot Or The Bullet” Speech
• The Effect Of Formal Or Informal Language In Speech Delivery.
• The Impact Of Persuasive Techniques In Greta Thunberg’s “How Dare You” Speech At The United Nations Climate Action Summit.

Visual Rhetorical Essay Topics

Visual essays explore how the things we see persuade a target audience and evoke emotional responses. The things you’ll look at with visual analysis essay writing include color, layout, and concrete or abstract images. By doing so, you’ll learn how visual communication impacts our media-rich society.

• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Use Of Color Symbolism In Political Campaign Posters.
• The Impact Of Visual Metaphors In Advertising On Consumer Behavior.
• The Role Of Typography And Font Choice In Conveying A Message In Graphic Design.
• Examining The Use Of Pathos In Public Service Announcements Related To Climate Change.
• The Persuasive Power Of Visual Storytelling In Documentary Films.
• How Social Media Platforms Use Visuals To Shape User Behaviors And Opinions.
• The Influence Of Iconic Photographs On Public Perception Of Historical Events.
• A Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Memes And Their Role In Shaping Online Discourse.
• Developing A Brand Identity Through Visual Symbols And Logos.
• The Role Of Visual Composition In Enhancing The Persuasiveness Of Infographics.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Impact Of Editorial Cartoons On Shaping Public Opinion.
• How Visual Metaphors In Music Videos Influence Viewers’ Interpretations Of The Song.
• The Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Visual Arts In The Streets.
• How Visual Rhetorical Composition Is Used In Propaganda Posters To Evoke Nationalistic Emotions.
• Visual Aesthetics in Aligning Branding With A Target Audience.

Topics for a Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Society

A rhetorical essay on society examines how language influences or critiques societal concerns. Through all types of media, you learn how certain strategies persuade or inform an audience about social issues.

• Unconscious Racism And How It Affects People Of Color .
• Racism And Shootings .
• Why The Color Of Your Skin Does Not Matter .
• The Biggest Problem In The United States Of America Is Illegal Immigrants .
• The Problem Of Mass Shootings
• Gun Violence .
• The Role Of Persuasion In Environmental Activism And Climate Change Debates.’
• A Rhetorical Analysis Paper On The Persuasive Techniques In Advertisements Targeting Societal Issues.
• The Influence Of Celebrity Endorsements On Public Opinion And Social Issues.
• The Language And Symbols Used In Anti-Bullying Campaigns.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Paper On The LGBTQ+ Community.
• Public Health Campaigns Addressing Mental Health Stigma.
• A Detailed Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Discourse Surrounding The Legalization Of Marijuana.
• The Power Of Language In Promoting Or Challenging Racial Stereotypes.
• The Influence Of Rhetorical Devices In Attitudes Toward Wealth Inequality And Social Mobility.

Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on a Person

An outstanding rhetorical analysis paper looks at persuasive strategies to understand the writer’s intention. These essays examine how someone uses language to shape public opinion or inspire change.

• Nikola Tesla – The Inventor Behind It All .
• Changes By Tupac .
• President Donald Trump And His Politics .
• About Fidel Castro .
• How Steve Jobs Used Persuasive Strategies To Reinvent Apple And Inspire Consumer Loyalty.
• The Distinct Rhetoric Of Greta Thunberg In Her Climate Change Activism.
• Analyzing The Persuasive Techniques Of Elon Musk’s Public Presentations And Interviews.
• The Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Susan B. Anthony’s Fight For Women’s Suffrage.
• Do Abstract Images Matter? What Does Boo Radley Represent In “To Kill A Mockingbird”?
• The Rhetorical Composition Of Malala Yousafzai In Her Advocacy For Girls’ Education.
• Nelson Mandela’s Fight Against Apartheid.
• Dissecting The Persuasive Strategies Of Adolf Hitler In His Propaganda Campaigns.
• The Persuasive Techniques Employed By Mahatma Gandhi In His Fight For Indian Independence.
• How Winston Churchill Inspired A Nation During World War 2.
• Maya Angelou In Her Poems And Speeches: A Rhetorical Analysis Essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Philosophy

Philosophers use persuasive techniques, arguments, and linguistic choices in their rhetorical analysis essays to convey their ideas. It will be your job to define their impact by looking at how they engage and convince their readers.

You’ll learn how philosophical concepts are presented and articulated, and you’ll develop your analytical abilities.

• The Calvinistic Doctrine Of Predestination .
• The Use Of Persuasive Devices In Plato’s “Allegory Of The Cave”.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Descartes’ “Cogito, Ergo Sum” Argument.
• Persuasive Techniques Used By Immanuel Kant In His “Critique Of Pure Reason”.
• A Linguistic Examination Of John Locke’s “A Rhetorical Essay Concerning Human Understanding”.
• The Role Of Ethos, Logos, And Pathos In Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s “The Social Contract”.
• The Persuasive Strategies Of Friedrich Nietzsche In “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”.
• Analysis Of The Socratic Method In “Dialogues” By Plato.
• Persuasive Language In John Stuart Mill’s “On Liberty”.
• Rhetorical Devices In “Leviathan” By Thomas Hobbes.
• Metaphor And Symbolism In Søren Kierkegaard’s “Fear And Trembling”.
• Linguistic Examination Of Martin Heidegger’s “Being And Time”.
• The Persuasive Power Of Bertrand Russell’s “Why I Am Not A Christian”.
• Analyze Main Rhetorical Devices In Ludwig Wittgenstein’s “Philosophical Investigations”.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Language Of Metaphysics In George Berkeley’s “A Treatise Concerning The Principles Of Human Knowledge”.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on History

History essays examine and check historical speeches, texts, and events through the lens of expression.

These rhetorical analysis topics will have you studying the words of influential figures throughout history. And how their messages shaped public opinion through the power of language and persuasion.

• The Civil War .
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The “Zimmermann Telegram” And Its Impact On World War I
• The Debates Surrounding The U.S. Constitution.
• American Revolution And The Declaration Of Independence.
• Persuasive Techniques In The Abolitionist Movement
• The Persuasive Power Of Queen Elizabeth I’s Speech To The Troops At Tilbury.
• Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” Pamphlet.
• The Speeches Of Marcus Tullius Cicero And Their Impact On Roman Society.
• Emancipation Proclamation. Analyzing Abraham Lincoln’s Use Of Diction.
• Techniques Employed In The Women’s Suffrage Movement.
• The Use Of Persuasive Expression In The Civil Rights Movement.
• Wartime Propaganda Posters.
• European Union Formation Through Written And Spoken Persuasive Techniques.
• The Cuban Missile Crisis.
• 1979 Iranian Revolution.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Business

The business rhetorical analysis examines how communication achieves specific goals. These rhetoric topics look at how marketing campaigns or business proposals affect society.

• Disney Is Destroying Lives
• Completely Legal For Walmart To Hire Many Part Time Workers
• Brexit Bad For Business Ain’t It
• Insights Into The Power Of Storytelling In Business Presentations.
• Campaigns Promoting Corporate Social Responsibility Have Great Power
• Rhetorical Strategies Used In Customer Testimonials And Reviews To Persuade Potential Clients.
• The Persuasive Techniques Used By Businesses To Promote Environmentally-Friendly Practices.
• How Spoken And Written Techniques Reinforce Or Challenge Traditional Gender Roles In The Workplace.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On How Businesses Respond To Public Relations Disasters.
• Exploring The Language That Conveys Corporate Values And Mission Statements.
• The Impact Of Social Media Influencers On Business Promotion.
• The Persuasive Techniques Used In “Shark Tank” Pitches And Startup Competitions.
• Exploring The Strategies Used By Businesses To Regain Trust After Controversies Or Scandals.
• From Commercials To Viral Ad Campaigns: How Advertising Works In 2023.
• How Companies Persuade Other Organizations To Collaborate Or Form Partnerships.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Government

These rhetorical analysis topics cover political speeches to propaganda in policy documents.

You’ll learn how language and tone rally support for specific initiatives. As well as develop a deeper appreciation for this topic’s influence on political discourse.

• What Does Change Mean In Us History?
• United States Key Role In Support Of Human Rights .
• Essay About Brown V. Board Of Education .
• Police Brutality And Abuse Towards Blacks .
• The Language And Communication Strategies Used In International Diplomacy.
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Political Party Platforms And How They Attract Voters.
• Shaping Public Opinion On Controversial Legislation.
• A Global Village Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Success Or Failure Of Social Movements.
• A Rhetoric Analysis Of The Impact Of Language In The Framing Of National Security Issues.
• The Role Of Persuasion In The Portrayal Of Political Figures In The Media.
• Examining The Language And Communication Strategies Used In Political Crisis Management.
• Shaping Public Discourse On Controversial Topics Through Rhetorical Analysis.
• Promoting Specific Government Policies Through Written And Spoken Strategy.
• The Rhetorical Richness Of Visual Arts In Media.
• The Use Of Emotional Appeals In Government Public Service Announcements.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Culture

Culture-specific rhetorical strategies contribute to the unique characteristics of different societies. And studying them encourages the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.

Through language, you will learn how cultural norms, values, and traditions are conveyed and reinforced.

• Women And Men Pay Gap
• Thinking Queerly: Race, Sex, Gender
• Abortion Illegal
• The Society Acceptance Of LGBT
• A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Relationship Between Popular Culture And Consumer Behavior.
• Cultural Festivals And Their Impact On Societal Values.
• The Influence Of Social Media On The Evolution Of Cultural Trends.
• Persuasive Language In Cultural Documentaries.
• Literary Persuasion In The Promotion And Preservation Of Cultural Heritage.
• Popular Art Criticism.
• Cultural Stereotypes: Perceptions and Acceptances.
• Language And Communication Strategies Used In Cultural Diplomacy.
• Mainstream Media’s Representation Of Minority Cultures.
• Language And Symbolism In Traditional Cultural Rituals.
• Cultural And Artistic Movements Throughout History

Rhetorical analysis is a fascinating way to explore the power of language and persuasion. Understanding methods used to persuade and improve analytical skills is essential for students.

Luckily, there are 210 essay topics to select from here, so there is no shortage of good rhetorical analysis topics to explore.

From the speeches of world leaders to advertisements, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for the art of persuasion. Furthermore, you learn how to use rhetorical devices to captivate audiences by analyzing popular media.

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70 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Secondary ELA

May 28, 2019 //  by  Lindsay Ann //   8 Comments

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Before we get to the rhetorical analysis essay prompts (a.k.a. tons of ready-to-analyze texts at your fingertips), let’s take a time-out to lay the groundwork for understanding a rhetorical analysis essay using ethos, pathos, and logos.

Rhetoric is Defined As…

Put simply, rhetoric refers to any technique an author uses to persuade an audience.

Or, the behind-the-scenes choices an author makes to give you all the feels. 

Chances are, if you consider a text or speech to be  really good , rhetorical techniques are working like a master puppeteer to pull at your heart strings, make an impact on your brain, and get you to let down your guard because you trust the author or speaker.

That’s why political figures have speech writers.

That’s why authors spend time fine-tuning their words and sentences.

Rhetoric is important.

In addition, rhetoric goes back to the ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle, the “father” of rhetoric.

The Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Moving on, if rhetoric is the art of persuasion, then the rhetorical analysis essay analyzes how an author or speaker creates opportunity for persuasion in his/her text.

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay involves understanding of context and occasion for writing. It also involves understanding the subject matter of the speech and intended audience.

Beyond this, noticing how the author uses rhetorical appeals and rhetorical devices to impact the target audience can help you to write an in-depth rhetorical essay analysis.

The BEST Rhetoric Topics

As a teacher, I’m always in search of engaging texts for students to analyze. In this post, I’m sharing the best speeches, advertisements, and essays  for rhetorical analysis. You’ll never run out of rhetorical analysis essay topics again!

So, you’ll definitely want to stop right now and pin this post. 

Your future English-teacher-self will thank you. 

47 Rhetoric Examples in Speeches

The following speeches work well individually, but I’ve also tried to add value by pairing texts together.

Whether you’re analyzing rhetorical appeals such as ethos, pathos, and logos or looking at rhetorical devices, these speeches will work for discussion or as the text for a rhetorical analysis essay.

• Gettysburg Monologue in Remember the Titans  – Pair with “ The Gettysburg Address ” by Abraham Lincoln
• “ Full Power of Women ” by Priyanka Chopra – Pair with Emma Watson’s speech on the Power of Women
• Speech from Finding Forrester – Pair with “ Integrity ” by Warren Buffet
• Red’s Parole Hearing from Shawshank Redemption – Pair with the Freedom Speech from Braveheart
• Ending Scene from The Breakfast Club – Pair with  “ The Danger of a Single Story ” by Chimamanda Ngozi Achichi
• Authentic Swing Speech from The Legend of Bagger Vance – Pair with  “ How Winning is Done ” from  Rocky Balboa
• Maximus’ Speech to Commodus from Gladiator – Pair with  The Revolutionary Speech  from  V for Vendetta
• The Natural State of Mankind from Amistad – Pair with “ Our Diversity Makes Us Who We Are ” by Michelle Obama
• Denzel Washington’s  Dillard University Commencement Speech – Pair with “ The Last Lecture ” by Randy Pausch
• “ Like Pieces of Glass in my Head ” from The Green Mile – Pair with “ Eulogy for Beau Biden ” by Barack Obama
• Oprah’s  2018 Golden Globes speech – Pair with  Seth Myers’ Golden Globes Monologue  and/or  Ellen says #MeToo
• Independence Day speech – Pair with  Aragorn’s Helm’s Deep Speech  from LOTR: The Two Towers
• Pair  “I am Human”  &  “Love Liberates” , both by Maya Angelou
• Pink’s  VMA acceptance speech – Pair with “ If I Should Have a Daughter ” by Sarah Kay
• Ellen’s  People’s Choice Humanitarian Award Acceptance Speech – Pair with “ Pep Talk ” by Kid President
• Gandalf Speaks to Frodo in Moria  from  LOTR : Fellowship of the Ring – Pair with   Sam’s Speech   in LOTR: The Two Towers
• Obama’s  Final Farewell Speech – Pair with Al Pacino’s  Any Given Sunday  speech – clean version
• Harvard Graduation Speech by Donovan Livingston – Pair with Steve Jobs  2005 Stanford Commencement Speech
• “ Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator ” by Tim Urban – Pair with “ Five Second Rule ” by Mel Robbins
• Rachel Hollis “Inspire Women to be Their Best” (mild profanity)
• My Philosophy for a Happy Life by Sam Berns
• “ To this Day: For the Bullied and the Beautiful ” by Shane Koyczan – Pair with Kid President’s “ Pep Talk to Teachers and Students “
• “ The Power of Introverts ” by Susan Cain – Pair with “ Don’t Let Others Stop You From Living Your Own Truth “

Rhetoric in Advertising: 23 Examples

This next list holds a blend of print advertisements and commercials, perfect for introducing close reading and rhetorical analysis and for writing a rhetorical analysis essay.

Ads are short, but pack a punch. Honestly, my students love analyzing the rhetoric of advertisements a lot because they are accessible and visual.

Rhetoric Commercials & Print Advertisements

• “ Web of Fries “
• Duracell “ Teddy Bear ” Commercial
• Apple 1984 Commercial Introducing the New Macintosh Computer
• Nike “ Find Your Greatness ” Ads
• Pepsi, Superbowl 53 Commercial: “ More than Okay ”
• “ Get a Mac ” Commercial Compilation
• “ Can You Hear Me Now ” Verizon Wireless
• Apple iPhone X – “ Unlock ”
• Kiwi “ First Steps ” Print Advertisement
• Vauxhall’s  Backwards Cinderella
• Lego Print Advertisement
• Top 10 Powerful Ads of 2014

Rhetoric of the Image

• Entourage NGO for the Homeless Print Advertisement Images
• 33 Creative Print Ads
• Protege Group
• Greenpeace Print Advertisement Collection
• “ Divorce Furniture “
• L’Oréal Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 1 ” L’Oréal Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 2 ” L’Oréal Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 3 ”
• “ It’s Not Acceptable to Treat a Woman Like One”
• “ 50 Creative and Effective Advertising Examples “
• Juvenile Protective Association
• Anti-Bullying Campaign
• 25 Serious Ads

Writing a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Using Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

No doubt, writing a rhetorical analysis essay is like taking apart a puzzle and putting it back together again. Teachers, help your students to understand how all of the pieces fit together in order to see the bigger picture of what the author is trying to accomplish.

First, take time to understand how a text “works” for a rhetorical analysis essay using ethos, pathos, and logos:

• Read or listen to understand overall content. Look up unfamiliar words.
• Mark the text for the author’s main points and sub-points.
• descriptive
• compare/contrast
• cause/effect
• argumentative
• Take notes on SOAPS: subject, occasion, audience, purpose, speaker
• Discuss the text(s) in Socratic Seminar .

Next, identify rhetorical appeals . 

• Ethos: How an author demonstrates credibility and builds trust.
• Pathos: How an author creates an emotional response.
• Logos: How an author demonstrates expertise and knowledge.

Look for rhetorical devices & patterns in the text.

• Rhetorical devices refer to an author’s use of diction and syntax.
• Does the author repeat key words / phrases? What’s the impact?
• Does the author return to the same idea or image? Why?

Finally, write a clear thesis statement & topic sentences for your rhetorical analysis essay.

• Use your thesis statement to generate topic sentences.
• In your body paragraphs, identify a technique, provide an example, and discuss the “right there” and “beneath the surface” meanings. How does the author’s choice impact the audience, further a message, establish a tone?
• What’s the context for the repetition?
• What connotations are important?
• How is the anaphora used to move the reader to greater understanding (logos), emotional investment (pathos), and/or trust in the author’s ideas (ethos)?

Six Strategies for Teaching Rhetorical Analysis

I’ve created an awesome free guide to inspire English teachers who teach rhetoric and the rhetorical analysis essay in their classrooms. Even if you don’t teach AP lang, you can benefit from these strategies !

Rhetorical Analysis Essay FAQ’s

How do you write a rhetorical analysis essay.

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay is like writing a literary analysis essay, except the focus is on one or more non-fiction texts and the analysis targets an author’s style or rhetorical “moves” (a.k.a. use of rhetorical appeals and/or devices). Rhetorical analysis essays usually prove a claim about the author’s message or purpose for writing. The paragraphs in a rhetorical analysis essay unpack “what” an author is doing to send this message and “how” these choices impact the audience.

What does it mean to write a rhetorical analysis?

Writing a rhetorical analysis means that you are aware, as an audience member, reader, listener, human being, of the messages you consume. As a critical consumer of others’ ideas, you ask hard questions about how these messages are shaped, why they’re being delivered in certain ways, and why this is important for you and for society.

What are the three rhetorical strategies?

The three most commonly known rhetorical strategies are known as rhetorical appeals. Ethos (ethics) refers to credibility and trustworthiness. Pathos (passion) refers to engaging an audience’s emotions. Logos (logic) refers to engaging an audience’s brain through logical organization and use of evidence and arguments.

About Lindsay Ann

Lindsay has been teaching high school English in the burbs of Chicago for 19 years. She is passionate about helping English teachers find balance in their lives and teaching practice through practical feedback strategies and student-led learning strategies. She also geeks out about literary analysis, inquiry-based learning, and classroom technology integration. When Lindsay is not teaching, she enjoys playing with her two kids, running, and getting lost in a good book.

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Reader Interactions

January 9, 2023 at 9:38 am

Hi Lindsay Ann, thanks so much for these great resources. Just wanted to gently point out a couple errors that you might want to fix:

#12: should be Seth Myers’ (not Seth Myer’s) #13: should be independence (not independance)

Teachers have to help each other out 🙂

Best, Nikkee

January 9, 2023 at 5:44 pm

Thank you so much for letting me know, Nikkee!

[…] a lot of options and extensions for analyzing rhetoric in social media. Who knows, maybe your next rhetorical analysis essay assignment will be focused on rhetoric in social […]

[…] 70 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Secondary ELA […]

[…] find that teaching rhetorical analysis and close reading skills go hand-in-hand with teaching voice in […]

[…] helps students to remember that everything comes back to the author’s purpose or message in rhetorical analysis. Author’s purpose is central to unpacking an author’s choices, including use of […]

[…] you assigning a rhetorical analysis essay? Why not try having students use rhetorical analysis sentence […]

[…] I introduced students to rhetoric. First, we journaled on this topic: Think of a time someone talked you into doing something or believing something. How did they do it? What tactics did they use? Students may share out journals. I gave students a graphic organizer with a PAPA analysis (purpose, audience, persona, argument) and picked a speech. Frankly, the speech I picked, which was Samwise Gamgee’s speech to Frodo Baggins in The Two Towers, failed spectacularly since students had no frame of reference. Note: that movie is old now. I know. It makes me sad, too. So go cautiously if you use this, but maybe pick something else. You can find a massive list here. […]

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200 rhetorical analysis topics for students in 2023.

The first thing to note when writing anything on rhetorical analysis is that the essay requires you having a wide and in-depth knowledge about the specific topic you’ll be basing your essay on. A good mastery of rhetorical essay topics entails the ability to write effectively.

Sometimes, the challenge looks like not knowing where to begin. But, understanding that a rhetorical analysis essay requires the writer to deeply and accurately analyze a piece of work and make a plausible argument with supporting evidence about it will give you an edge when crafting and choosing a topic.

However, rhetorical analysis topics are majorly predominant in topics associated with the arts but are also not limited to it. Topics can be based on literature, movies, billboards, popular culture, ads, speeches, and even ordinary human conversations.

Aside from understanding what rhetorical topics are, having ample information about any selected topic is crucial as it helps to develop sound rhetorical analysis ideas. Here are some topics you can base your rhetorical analysis essay topics on.

Rhetorical Essay Topics to Choose From

In any rhetorical essay, what the writer does is highlight a problem, carry out extensive analysis on the listed problem to make a strong-base argument on the subject matter.

A rhetorical essay isn’t complete without sound backup evidence to the highlighted problem. Carrying out an essay writing of this form requires you to have done thorough research on whatever you will be writing on.

Knowing how to choose smart topics for rhetorical analysis isn’t enough to write the essay, there must be the existence of extensively done research as this enables the writing to come fully alive. Rhetorical analysis topics list can look like.

• Do social media encourage low productivity in young adults?
• Rhetorical Analysis of Shonda Rhimes’s How to Get Away with Murder
• Obama’s first presidential speech
• A textual analysis of Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life
• Analysis of Dove ’s beauty Ads over the last 5 years
• A Feminist look at Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own
• Importance of complex themes in American TV shows and Movies
• Analysis of the Instagram aesthetics and what it entails
• The role of symbolism in Literature and art piece
• The work of representation in Popular Culture
• TV shows: That’s what I Like and Here’s Why you should too
• The implication of Horror movies on middle and preschoolers
• Do Smartphones encourage low productivity in Young Adults or not?
• The impact of Diversity representation in Hollywood
• A cultural exploration of Beyoncé’s Lemonade
• Madam CJ Walker, Diversity beauty-representation
• Explicit sexual exploration: the Hip Hop culture
• Purity culture an offspring of Rape culture
• Social exploration of the movie adaptation of Les Misérables
• Does Social media obscure reality or not?
• Rhetorical analysis: Mom blogs and the role they play within the society
• The Hidden Reality of Foodbanks in the American system
• Welfare mom, bad mom?
• Analyze the political implications of George Orwell’s Animal Farm
• The unsettling effect of Dan Fogelman’s This Life
• Homeschooling, the bane of many high school students.
• The impacts of gaming on preschoolers
• How PBS for Kids has changed the Parenting game
• The Role of the Erotica: The poems by E. E Cummings
• The absurdity of the Afterlife

More Topics on Rhetorical Analysis

There are varieties of different kinds of rhetorical analysis topics that it is unlikely that one can run out of ways to craft rhetorical analysis topics for any essay at all.

Since the majority of these rhetoric topics are mostly within the arts, there’s a wide range of sources and inspiration to draw your essay topic from. This is because art is an interesting field that keeps on giving.

These topics can be relevant for high school and for college students. Here are a handful of rhetorical analysis example topics to consider for rhetorical analysis.

• A comparative analysis of non-fictional novels and fictional novels
• Analysis: Obama’s Farewell speech
• Rhetorical analysis of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre
• The Failure of Charity, Classism, Victorian era, the folly of Individualism: Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist .
• Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and Joyce Cary’s Mister Johnson : an Anthropological exploration
• The realism of 11th century Scotland and how it’s portrayed in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
• The Surrealism of the 20th-century art and Literary explorations with that era
• F.Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and how it’s an indictment to the “American Dream”
• Rhetorical Analysis of James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room and Another Country
• Why Movie adaptations can never measure up to Books
• The social and economic implications of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
• The story of Leonardo da Vinci and the Monalisa painting
• Painting, Artistry and how Paul Cézanne’s art interrogates the subject of late-blooming
• What the use of mostly women for domestic Ads suggests
• How new Hollywood producers and showrunners address the issue of inclusivity and diversity in TV.
• What the use of the omniscient narrator in books suggests
• The Monalisa painting: Why is it Talked about so much?
• The rhetorical device in D.H Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover
• This is why best-seller books are called best-sellers
• Why kids avoid watching the news at all cost
• How the presence of social media impacts mental illness negatively
• The Role of Tv and Popular in promoting Misogyny and Misogynoir
• A call to Love: the recurring theme within James Baldwin’s works
• How reality Tv shows obscure actual reality
• How racism permeates Langston Hughes I, Too
• What is the distinction between Symbolism and Imagery
• The recurring effect of Misogyny in Malala Yousafzai’s real-life experiences
• Why documentaries on Minimalism should be encouraged
• Minimalism: a direct response to Late Capitalism
• The wide distinction between Liberalism and NeoLiberalism

Rhetorical Situation Essay Topics for 2023

Before embarking on choosing any essay topic in a rhetorical situation, you must first understand the role of rhetoric in writing. Good rhetorical analysis essay topics aim to compel action through oral, written, visual, and sound forms. Rhetorical analysis compels the reader or the present audience to reassess their perspectives based on what you are saying or have written.

A good rhetorical analysis essay topic primarily seeks to capture the base attention of the reader or audience. One of the most common situations where rhetorics come in handy is in the political field.

However, rhetorical situation essays are impassioned, affective and are intended to capture the emotion of the reader or the audience; luring emotion is its basic and most tactical style for a call to action.

• How the legislation on Birth Control pills has resulted in the untimely death of Women in rural areas
• The rise of inflation and its resulting consequences in low-income homes
• Was capitalism not okay enough? How the pandemic has displaced even more households
• How does Popular Culture contribute to the continuous subjugation of women
• Rape, teen pregnancy and the delegitimization of birth control pills: How they all conjure to control women’s bodies
• Television is helping us understand the complexities of human lives
• How the epidemic of drug abuse and its prevalence affects the lives of young Americans in the Deep South
• Gun Control: Why we should pay attention to guns rather than women’s bodies
• How lack of access and poverty is affecting homeschooling for young Americans
• Paying low-income workers below minimum wage is a late capitalist concept
• Gentrification: how it’s displacing people from their communities and homes
• Capitalism is the main reason why millennials can’t afford to buy a house
• The capitalist undertones of the “black to office” maximum
• The Vernacular of Fatphobia in American Popular Culture
• This is why America isn’t Post-racial
• Myth: The Post-racial American Society
• Why the rhetoric “The Future of Remote Work is Lonely” is a Myth
• The Fatphobia of the American Wellness Culture
• How Homeschooling is Demoralizing Teachers
• Navigating various identities: the reality of the immigrant household
• The Big lessons from Covid era: the diminishing returns of Hyper-productivity
• What it means to be displaced within a Pandemic
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Work Culture
• The Unrealized myth of Self-care culture
• The US Women as Social safety nets
• Analysis of how Email became Work
• What the Pandemic has taught workers about Unionism
• The insidious nature of work culture and how it contributes to Burnouts
• How Publishing is promoting Diversity and Inclusivity
• Want it means to live within a pandemic as a low-income worker

30 Rhetorical Analysis Example Topics

The challenge that students often face when asked to write a rhetorical essay is the problem of how to craft a topic that best conveys their thoughts as well as that which they can grasp easily and have adequate available and accessible information on.

There are so many researchable ideas to write on; the hitch is often crafting your topic into something capable of inciting attention and encouraging conversations.

This is because, in rhetorics and persuasive writing, the rhetorical analysis topics for essay are also of crucial importance as much as the content. Here are some easy rhetorical analysis topics.

• Why is Disneyland referred to as the Happiest Place on the Planet Earth
• Why free Sanitary items is essential in every public space
• The impact of Hip Hop in growing the Feminist Consciousness
• Ted Talk: How it gives and encourages voices
• Why Some blogs become Influential within a short period
• The Myth of Consistency is Key
• How Access is Key
• How Shame culture emerged from Respectability Culture
• Calling Survivors of Abuse Victims is Derogatory
• How Speaking up exposes Survivors to more Harm
• Analysis of Cancel Culture and Social Media Justice
• The Importance of Commercials on Tv
• How Commercials promote Falsehood
• The impacts of Colorism and the Issue of Color Complex
• A Room of One’s Own : The coming of Virginia Woolf before her time
• A Rhetorical Analysis of Reality Tv
• This is how Commercials can be more Relatable
• How Relatability Tv impacts us
• The importance of Inclusivity, Diversity, and Representation in Popular Culture
• The Therapeutic effect of Representation
• The Therapeutic effect of Yoga and Meditation
• Why Low-income Workers should be exempted from Tax
• The Ripple Effect of the Internet on Young Adults
• Where the realistic depiction of Tv begins and ends
• An Existential analytical approach to the works of Sylvia Path
• The Rhetorical strategy in Frederick Douglas’ Memoir
• Rhetoric as style in Martin Luther King Jr.’s I Have a Dream
• Why the Bob Dylan Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016 was deserving
• Award Culture is slowly Killing Creativity
• A Historical approach to Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales

Ideas on Rhetoric Research Paper Topics

Every writing within academia hinges on the effective use of rhetorical situation essay topics; this is because the basis of everything done within academia is to impact ideas through the use of language and this language is usually persuasive in nature even while it seeks to educate.

For university students, it’s most likely very rare that you can run away from rhetoric research paper topics during your school year, in fact, it’s a prerequisite while in school.

It comes in the form of assignments, research, and term papers. If you are looking for topics, there are a variety of good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on. Below is a list of rhetorical analysis assignment ideas.

• An Analysis of the Rhetorical Device implored in Beowulf
• A Case study of Contemporary Popular Culture
• The political and social implications of 90’s Hip Hop
• A Comparative Analysis of Tv shows and Movies
• The Futility of the American Dream as explored in F.S Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
• The Symbolic exploration of “The Green Light” in The Great Gatsby
• The Impact of Technological Innovation on American Student’s attention span
• The Misogyny of the American Entertainment Industry
• Structural Racism: The Mother of Gentrification
• The Growing Concern of the Broken American Childcare System
• The Triumph and the Bold Rhetorics employed in Diversity Tv
• Restructuring: Why Diversity, Inclusivity, and Representation should be Championed
• Purity Culture: A social construct that seeks to control women’s body
• The representation distinction in the movie adaptation of Push and the book
• A Comparative Analysis of Digital Literature and Traditional Literature
• Innovation: The growing effects of Technological advancement
• Late Capitalism: Self-care culture as a tool
• The need for Inclusivity in the discussion of Beauty Culture
• American Gun Culture and how it perpetuates greater harm
• Domestic Violence, Abuse: The Battered Woman Syndrome
• Affirmative Action: A Tool for Subjugation and Intellectual Relegation of the Minority Communities
• Race Relations: The future of the American System
• The Intrinsic effect of the exploration and promotion of interracial marriage on American popular Culture
• Obesity: The distinction between Fatphobia and a need for Medical Attention
• The Evolution of Identity Politics within the American System
• Diversity Higher: Why America Needs a quick Racial intervention
• A Comparative Study of 90s Hip Hop Culture and early 2010s Hip Hop
• Rape Culture, Victim Blaming: The need to listen to Survivors
• The Explicit Way American Hip Hop Explores Abuse and Misogyny
• The Institutional Bias of the American System

Rhetorical Argument Essay Topics

When writing an argumentative essay, rhetoric is employed as the tool to not just convey thoughts and opinions but also to capture the interest of the audience or reader(s).

In any rhetorical argument essay, the writer must employ ethos, pathos, and logos as this enables the writer to navigate the topic better. For every form of rhetorical argumentative essay, there has to be a thoroughly carried out research, an understanding of the audience, a solid thesis statement, and the use of a writing style that captures attention.

The basis of an argumentative essay is that it must contain persuasive elements, without that, the argument isn’t complete. Here are some rhetorical argument essay topics to look into while writing your essay.

• Can Drug Abuse be Contained by Legalizing and Regulating certain Drugs?
• High-end and Fast fashion, how does it contribute to the Unhealthy lifestyle in our environment
• Does a Democratic system have any significant drawbacks?
• Why working moms and nursing moms should be given more workplace privilege
• Why Maternal paid leave should be legalized
• Is Cyberbullying capable of affecting mental health?
• Should Diversity Higher, Affirmative Action and Inclusivity be made mandatory?
• Does Feminism obscure the need for women to lash out at their fellow women?
• Is Religion really the Opium of the Masses as Suggested by Karl Max?
• Are there significant drawbacks to marrying off of a Dating App?
• How Social Media Fame negatively impacts one’s real-life experiences
• Is the presence of Artificial Intelligence going to lead to human extinction?
• How hyperactivity on Social media plays out in impacting loneliness
• Is there a possibility of Electronic money wiping out paper money?
• Can human society experience growth without the presence of technology?
• Is the consistent attachment to cell phones contributing to depression and anxiety?
• Do public cameras infringe on individual privacy?
• Is sustainable living capable of helping us reverse Climate Change?
• Limiting Children’s screen time, does it contribute to their academic growth?
• Should people be encouraged to use Marijuana now its health benefits have been dictated?
• Are Academic Stress and excessive academic workload a form of psychological torture?
• Has homeschooling improved the nature and operation of the school system?
• Does beauty pageantry influence the concept and idea of beauty in society?
• Is it Ethical to demand maternity leave for fathers?
• Is Killing a Murderer a Punishable offense?
• Should High school children be introduced to sex education in school?
• How does the knowledge of sex education impact high schoolers?
• Lecturer-Student friendship: is it an ethical practice?
• Are students supposed to bring school work back home?
• Impromptu test within the University system: Cancelled or Promoted?
• Does access to so much information lead to Misinformation?
• Does homeschooling contribute to students’ anti-socialism?
• Should College Education be made completely free?
• Will free education make or mar the performance of the academic institution?
• Is GPA a sound determinant of intelligence?

Visual Rhetoric Essay Topics

There are different means through which rhetoric can be employed as a communication feature. Rhetorics occur in oral form, in written format as well as in the visual display. Visual rhetoric essay topics detail effective communication that is attained through the use and analysis of visual images, this is what differentiates it from other forms of rhetorical essays.

Communication through visual presentation has been noted to be effective and visual rhetoric makes communication and understanding very easy. It occurs in movies, painting, commercials, and other forms of art exploration.

For college students, especially those majoring in media studies and visual arts, assignments usually fall under visual rhetoric essays and visual text analysis. Here are some of the topics to look at within this subject matter.

• Analyze the impact of TV Commercials and Ads on consumers
• A case study of a prominent Hollywood production and the visual arts involved
• Rhetorical analysis of the emotional appeals employed in web ads
• Dissecting the ad of a TV Commercial and its implications
• The emotional appeal within the movie The Help and permeates the entire Movie
• A critical exploration of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa Painting
• The use of Lighting and Effect in Movies and what they Signify
• The Cinematography of a Movie: A Language of its own
• How Visual Commercials influence us more than Written Commercials
• An exploration of the use of visuals in marketing
• Analysis of Yellow Journalism
• What is the most effective visual ad you’ve seen and how did it influence you towards a product?
• How Visual ads increase people’s purchasing power
• An in-depth analysis of effective visual campaigns
• How TV influences our understanding of and our relation to society

Having a Hard Time Thinking of Rhertorical Analysis Topics?

Writing a rhetorical essay can be quite tasking as it requires that you embark on extensive research, digging through myriad materials in order to have a substantial essay. What is required to achieve a sound essay can really be a lot of work especially if you’re already engulfed with other activities. Nevertheless, there is the presence of fast expert writers online that offer essay writing help to you in any situation. Our essay writing service isn’t just high quality but is also very cheap. You do not just get the value of a great job, but also the promise of high grades and a stress-free and reliable service.

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• How to write a rhetorical analysis | Key concepts & examples

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis | Key Concepts & Examples

Published on August 28, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A rhetorical analysis is a type of essay  that looks at a text in terms of rhetoric. This means it is less concerned with what the author is saying than with how they say it: their goals, techniques, and appeals to the audience.

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Table of contents

Key concepts in rhetoric, analyzing the text, introducing your rhetorical analysis, the body: doing the analysis, concluding a rhetorical analysis, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about rhetorical analysis.

Rhetoric, the art of effective speaking and writing, is a subject that trains you to look at texts, arguments and speeches in terms of how they are designed to persuade the audience. This section introduces a few of the key concepts of this field.

Appeals: Logos, ethos, pathos

Appeals are how the author convinces their audience. Three central appeals are discussed in rhetoric, established by the philosopher Aristotle and sometimes called the rhetorical triangle: logos, ethos, and pathos.

Logos , or the logical appeal, refers to the use of reasoned argument to persuade. This is the dominant approach in academic writing , where arguments are built up using reasoning and evidence.

Ethos , or the ethical appeal, involves the author presenting themselves as an authority on their subject. For example, someone making a moral argument might highlight their own morally admirable behavior; someone speaking about a technical subject might present themselves as an expert by mentioning their qualifications.

Pathos , or the pathetic appeal, evokes the audience’s emotions. This might involve speaking in a passionate way, employing vivid imagery, or trying to provoke anger, sympathy, or any other emotional response in the audience.

These three appeals are all treated as integral parts of rhetoric, and a given author may combine all three of them to convince their audience.

Text and context

In rhetoric, a text is not necessarily a piece of writing (though it may be this). A text is whatever piece of communication you are analyzing. This could be, for example, a speech, an advertisement, or a satirical image.

In these cases, your analysis would focus on more than just language—you might look at visual or sonic elements of the text too.

The context is everything surrounding the text: Who is the author (or speaker, designer, etc.)? Who is their (intended or actual) audience? When and where was the text produced, and for what purpose?

Looking at the context can help to inform your rhetorical analysis. For example, Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech has universal power, but the context of the civil rights movement is an important part of understanding why.

Claims, supports, and warrants

A piece of rhetoric is always making some sort of argument, whether it’s a very clearly defined and logical one (e.g. in a philosophy essay) or one that the reader has to infer (e.g. in a satirical article). These arguments are built up with claims, supports, and warrants.

A claim is the fact or idea the author wants to convince the reader of. An argument might center on a single claim, or be built up out of many. Claims are usually explicitly stated, but they may also just be implied in some kinds of text.

The author uses supports to back up each claim they make. These might range from hard evidence to emotional appeals—anything that is used to convince the reader to accept a claim.

The warrant is the logic or assumption that connects a support with a claim. Outside of quite formal argumentation, the warrant is often unstated—the author assumes their audience will understand the connection without it. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still explore the implicit warrant in these cases.

For example, look at the following statement:

We can see a claim and a support here, but the warrant is implicit. Here, the warrant is the assumption that more likeable candidates would have inspired greater turnout. We might be more or less convinced by the argument depending on whether we think this is a fair assumption.

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Rhetorical analysis isn’t a matter of choosing concepts in advance and applying them to a text. Instead, it starts with looking at the text in detail and asking the appropriate questions about how it works:

• What is the author’s purpose?
• Do they focus closely on their key claims, or do they discuss various topics?
• What tone do they take—angry or sympathetic? Personal or authoritative? Formal or informal?
• Who seems to be the intended audience? Is this audience likely to be successfully reached and convinced?
• What kinds of evidence are presented?

By asking these questions, you’ll discover the various rhetorical devices the text uses. Don’t feel that you have to cram in every rhetorical term you know—focus on those that are most important to the text.

The following sections show how to write the different parts of a rhetorical analysis.

Like all essays, a rhetorical analysis begins with an introduction . The introduction tells readers what text you’ll be discussing, provides relevant background information, and presents your thesis statement .

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how an introduction works.

Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech is widely regarded as one of the most important pieces of oratory in American history. Delivered in 1963 to thousands of civil rights activists outside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the speech has come to symbolize the spirit of the civil rights movement and even to function as a major part of the American national myth. This rhetorical analysis argues that King’s assumption of the prophetic voice, amplified by the historic size of his audience, creates a powerful sense of ethos that has retained its inspirational power over the years.

The body of your rhetorical analysis is where you’ll tackle the text directly. It’s often divided into three paragraphs, although it may be more in a longer essay.

Each paragraph should focus on a different element of the text, and they should all contribute to your overall argument for your thesis statement.

Hover over the example to explore how a typical body paragraph is constructed.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

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The conclusion of a rhetorical analysis wraps up the essay by restating the main argument and showing how it has been developed by your analysis. It may also try to link the text, and your analysis of it, with broader concerns.

Explore the example below to get a sense of the conclusion.

It is clear from this analysis that the effectiveness of King’s rhetoric stems less from the pathetic appeal of his utopian “dream” than it does from the ethos he carefully constructs to give force to his statements. By framing contemporary upheavals as part of a prophecy whose fulfillment will result in the better future he imagines, King ensures not only the effectiveness of his words in the moment but their continuing resonance today. Even if we have not yet achieved King’s dream, we cannot deny the role his words played in setting us on the path toward it.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The goal of a rhetorical analysis is to explain the effect a piece of writing or oratory has on its audience, how successful it is, and the devices and appeals it uses to achieve its goals.

Unlike a standard argumentative essay , it’s less about taking a position on the arguments presented, and more about exploring how they are constructed.

The term “text” in a rhetorical analysis essay refers to whatever object you’re analyzing. It’s frequently a piece of writing or a speech, but it doesn’t have to be. For example, you could also treat an advertisement or political cartoon as a text.

Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, building up logical arguments . Ethos appeals to the speaker’s status or authority, making the audience more likely to trust them. Pathos appeals to the emotions, trying to make the audience feel angry or sympathetic, for example.

Collectively, these three appeals are sometimes called the rhetorical triangle . They are central to rhetorical analysis , though a piece of rhetoric might not necessarily use all of them.

In rhetorical analysis , a claim is something the author wants the audience to believe. A support is the evidence or appeal they use to convince the reader to believe the claim. A warrant is the (often implicit) assumption that links the support with the claim.

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40 Unique Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

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When it comes to rhetorical analysis essays, you might be wondering where to begin. Choosing your rhetorical analysis essay topic is a great starting point. To help you choose the best topic, explore these 40 unique rhetorical analysis essay topics covering media, movies, speeches, and literature.

What Is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

When it comes to rhetorical analysis , you are looking at something and analyzing its effect on you and its audience. While many times a rhetorical analysis essay is about a piece of literature or a speech, it can be about a piece of art or a movie. You might even do a rhetorical analysis of a commercial or billboard. However, to create an effective rhetorical analysis essay, you need to make sure that you have enough information available to analyze it.

Best Topics for Writing Rhetorical Essay

When choosing a topic for a rhetorical essay, choose a topic you are interested in. It should also have enough information for you to use in the essay. Popular topics to choose are famous poems, speeches, movies, art, literature, etc.

Relevant Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Rhetorical analysis topics can go beyond just famous presidents and Mel Gibson in Braveheart . Explore these unique rhetorical analysis topics that cover current events, art, and movies.

• “ Do Schools Kill Creativity? ” from Ted Talk or another interesting TedTalk topic
• “A Starry Night” by Van Gogh
• The Dove Real Beauty campaign
• Speech from President Trump
• The movie The Blind Side
• The meaning behind Mona Lisa’s smile
• A blog that you are passionate about
• A billboard that made you think
• A popular song
• Rachel Platten’s Fight Song
• BBC World “ See Both Sides of the Story ” Billboard
• Controversial Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso
• The rhetoric used by your favorite product’s campaign

Unique Literature Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Topics lists are full of rhetorical analysis topics covering Shakespeare’s Hamlet and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby . However, to make your essay truly memorable, you might want to give these literary topics a try.

• An impactful new writer
• The Hunger Games vs The Lottery
• How different writers define heroism
• Use of symbolism Harry Potter series
• Animal Farm
• Meaning in the book I am the Cheese
• Importance of theme of hope in literature
• Issues of race and prejudice as the theme in a current novel
• The importance symbolism plays in novels
• Rhetorical strategies used in your favorite novel
• Feminism and Louisa May Alcott
• Literary devices used by Jane Austen
• Symbolism in The Things They Carried

Unique Speech Ideas for Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

When it comes to rhetorical analysis essays, it’s easy to jump on the bandwagon of Martin Luther King Jr. However, if you want a truly unique rhetorical analysis essay, look beyond the obvious to these unique and current speech topics.

• Bob Dylan’s “ Banquet Speech ” for Nobel Banquet
• Malala Yousafzai’s speech at the Youth Takeover of the United Nations
• “Soul of a Man” speech in Remember the Titans
• Pink's 2017 VMA acceptance speech
• Saving Private Ryan “ The Farther From Home I Feel ”
• Ashton Kutcher Teen Choice Awards
• Winston Churchill “ We Shall Fight on the Beaches ”
• “ Seize the Day ” from Dead Poets Society
• Chief Joseph “ Surrender Speech ”
• Alexander the Great Speech
• Charlie Chaplin The Great Dictator
• Any Given Sunday speech
• MLK’s “ The Other America ” speech
• Virginia Woolf’s “ A Room of One’s Own ”

Rhetorical Analysis Essays Topics

When it comes to rhetorical analysis topics, you are only limited by your imagination. For more information on rhetoric, you might want to look at examples of rhetoric . You can also explore pathos, logos and ethos along with rhetorical question examples .

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What Is a Rhetorical Analysis and How to Write a Great One

By Helly Douglas

Do you have to write a rhetorical analysis essay? Fear not! We’re here to explain exactly what rhetorical analysis means, how you should structure your essay, and give you some essential “dos and don’ts.”

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How do you write a rhetorical analysis, what are the three rhetorical strategies, what are the five rhetorical situations, how to plan a rhetorical analysis essay, creating a rhetorical analysis essay, examples of great rhetorical analysis essays, final thoughts.

A rhetorical analysis essay studies how writers and speakers have used words to influence their audience. Think less about the words the author has used and more about the techniques they employ, their goals, and the effect this has on the audience.

In your analysis essay, you break a piece of text (including cartoons, adverts, and speeches) into sections and explain how each part works to persuade, inform, or entertain. You’ll explore the effectiveness of the techniques used, how the argument has been constructed, and give examples from the text.

A strong rhetorical analysis evaluates a text rather than just describes the techniques used. You don’t include whether you personally agree or disagree with the argument.

Structure a rhetorical analysis in the same way as most other types of academic essays . You’ll have an introduction to present your thesis, a main body where you analyze the text, which then leads to a conclusion.

Think about how the writer (also known as a rhetor) considers the situation that frames their communication:

• Topic: the overall purpose of the rhetoric
• Audience: this includes primary, secondary, and tertiary audiences
• Purpose: there are often more than one to consider
• Context and culture: the wider situation within which the rhetoric is placed

Back in the 4th century BC, Aristotle was talking about how language can be used as a means of persuasion. He described three principal forms —Ethos, Logos, and Pathos—often referred to as the Rhetorical Triangle . These persuasive techniques are still used today.

Rhetorical Strategy 1: Ethos

Are you more likely to buy a car from an established company that’s been an important part of your community for 50 years, or someone new who just started their business?

Reputation matters. Ethos explores how the character, disposition, and fundamental values of the author create appeal, along with their expertise and knowledge in the subject area.

Aristotle breaks ethos down into three further categories:

• Phronesis: skills and practical wisdom
• Arete: virtue
• Eunoia: goodwill towards the audience

Ethos-driven speeches and text rely on the reputation of the author. In your analysis, you can look at how the writer establishes ethos through both direct and indirect means.

Rhetorical Strategy 2: Pathos

Pathos-driven rhetoric hooks into our emotions. You’ll often see it used in advertisements, particularly by charities wanting you to donate money towards an appeal.

Common use of pathos includes:

• Vivid description so the reader can imagine themselves in the situation
• Personal stories to create feelings of empathy
• Emotional vocabulary that evokes a response

By using pathos to make the audience feel a particular emotion, the author can persuade them that the argument they’re making is compelling.

Rhetorical Strategy 3: Logos

Logos uses logic or reason. It’s commonly used in academic writing when arguments are created using evidence and reasoning rather than an emotional response. It’s constructed in a step-by-step approach that builds methodically to create a powerful effect upon the reader.

Rhetoric can use any one of these three techniques, but effective arguments often appeal to all three elements.

The rhetorical situation explains the circumstances behind and around a piece of rhetoric. It helps you think about why a text exists, its purpose, and how it’s carried out.

The rhetorical situations are:

• 1) Purpose: Why is this being written? (It could be trying to inform, persuade, instruct, or entertain.)
• 2) Audience: Which groups or individuals will read and take action (or have done so in the past)?
• 3) Genre: What type of writing is this?
• 4) Stance: What is the tone of the text? What position are they taking?
• 5) Media/Visuals: What means of communication are used?

Understanding and analyzing the rhetorical situation is essential for building a strong essay. Also think about any rhetoric restraints on the text, such as beliefs, attitudes, and traditions that could affect the author's decisions.

Before leaping into your essay, it’s worth taking time to explore the text at a deeper level and considering the rhetorical situations we looked at before. Throw away your assumptions and use these simple questions to help you unpick how and why the text is having an effect on the audience.

1: What is the Rhetorical Situation?

• Why is there a need or opportunity for persuasion?
• How do words and references help you identify the time and location?
• What are the rhetoric restraints?
• What historical occasions would lead to this text being created?

2: Who is the Author?

• How do they position themselves as an expert worth listening to?
• What is their ethos?
• Do they have a reputation that gives them authority?
• What is their intention?
• What values or customs do they have?

3: Who is it Written For?

• Who is the intended audience?
• How is this appealing to this particular audience?
• Who are the possible secondary and tertiary audiences?

4: What is the Central Idea?

• Can you summarize the key point of this rhetoric?
• What arguments are used?
• How has it developed a line of reasoning?

5: How is it Structured?

• What structure is used?
• How is the content arranged within the structure?

6: What Form is Used?

• Does this follow a specific literary genre?
• What type of style and tone is used, and why is this?
• Does the form used complement the content?
• What effect could this form have on the audience?

7: Is the Rhetoric Effective?

• Does the content fulfil the author’s intentions?
• Does the message effectively fit the audience, location, and time period?

Once you’ve fully explored the text, you’ll have a better understanding of the impact it’s having on the audience and feel more confident about writing your essay outline.

A great essay starts with an interesting topic. Choose carefully so you’re personally invested in the subject and familiar with it rather than just following trending topics. There are lots of great ideas on this blog post by My Perfect Words if you need some inspiration. Take some time to do background research to ensure your topic offers good analysis opportunities.

Remember to check the information given to you by your professor so you follow their preferred style guidelines. This outline example gives you a general idea of a format to follow, but there will likely be specific requests about layout and content in your course handbook. It’s always worth asking your institution if you’re unsure.

Make notes for each section of your essay before you write. This makes it easy for you to write a well-structured text that flows naturally to a conclusion. You will develop each note into a paragraph. Look at this example by College Essay for useful ideas about the structure.

1: Introduction

This is a short, informative section that shows you understand the purpose of the text. It tempts the reader to find out more by mentioning what will come in the main body of your essay.

• Name the author of the text and the title of their work followed by the date in parentheses
• Use a verb to describe what the author does, e.g. “implies,” “asserts,” or “claims”
• Briefly summarize the text in your own words
• Mention the persuasive techniques used by the rhetor and its effect

Create a thesis statement to come at the end of your introduction.

After your introduction, move on to your critical analysis. This is the principal part of your essay.

• Explain the methods used by the author to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience using Aristotle's rhetorical triangle
• Use quotations to prove the statements you make
• Explain why the writer used this approach and how successful it is
• Consider how it makes the audience feel and react

Make each strategy a new paragraph rather than cramming them together, and always use proper citations. Check back to your course handbook if you’re unsure which citation style is preferred.

3: Conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize the points you’ve made in the main body of your essay. While you will draw the points together, this is not the place to introduce new information you’ve not previously mentioned.

Use your last sentence to share a powerful concluding statement that talks about the impact the text has on the audience(s) and wider society. How have its strategies helped to shape history?

Before You Submit

Poor spelling and grammatical errors ruin a great essay. Use ProWritingAid to check through your finished essay before you submit. It will pick up all the minor errors you’ve missed and help you give your essay a final polish. Look at this useful ProWritingAid webinar for further ideas to help you significantly improve your essays. Sign up for a free trial today and start editing your essays!

You’ll find countless examples of rhetorical analysis online, but they range widely in quality. Your institution may have example essays they can share with you to show you exactly what they’re looking for.

The following links should give you a good starting point if you’re looking for ideas:

Pearson Canada has a range of good examples. Look at how embedded quotations are used to prove the points being made. The end questions help you unpick how successful each essay is.

Excelsior College has an excellent sample essay complete with useful comments highlighting the techniques used.

Brighton Online has a selection of interesting essays to look at. In this specific example, consider how wider reading has deepened the exploration of the text.

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can seem daunting, but spending significant time deeply analyzing the text before you write will make it far more achievable and result in a better-quality essay overall.

It can take some time to write a good essay. Aim to complete it well before the deadline so you don’t feel rushed. Use ProWritingAid’s comprehensive checks to find any errors and make changes to improve readability. Then you’ll be ready to submit your finished essay, knowing it’s as good as you can possibly make it.

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Helly Douglas

Helly Douglas is a UK writer and teacher, specialising in education, children, and parenting. She loves making the complex seem simple through blogs, articles, and curriculum content. You can check out her work at hellydouglas.com or connect on Twitter @hellydouglas. When she’s not writing, you will find her in a classroom, being a mum or battling against the wilderness of her garden—the garden is winning!

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How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay–Examples & Template

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

A rhetorical analysis essay is, as the name suggests, an analysis of someone else’s writing (or speech, or advert, or even cartoon) and how they use not only words but also rhetorical techniques to influence their audience in a certain way. A rhetorical analysis is less interested in what the author is saying and more in how they present it, what effect this has on their readers, whether they achieve their goals, and what approach they use to get there. 

Its structure is similar to that of most essays: An Introduction presents your thesis, a Body analyzes the text you have chosen, breaks it down into sections and explains how arguments have been constructed and how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section sums up your evaluation. 

Note that your personal opinion on the matter is not relevant for your analysis and that you don’t state anywhere in your essay whether you agree or disagree with the stance the author takes.

In the following, we will define the key rhetorical concepts you need to write a good rhetorical analysis and give you some practical tips on where to start.

Key Rhetorical Concepts

Your goal when writing a rhetorical analysis is to think about and then carefully describe how the author has designed their text so that it has the intended effect on their audience. To do that, you need to consider a number of key rhetorical strategies: Rhetorical appeals (“Ethos”, “Logos”, and “Pathos”), context, as well as claims, supports, and warrants.

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos were introduced by Aristotle, way back in the 4th century BC, as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience. They still represent the basis of any rhetorical analysis and are often referred to as the “rhetorical triangle”. 

These and other rhetorical techniques can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify the concepts they are based on.

Rhetorical Appeals

Rhetorical appeal #1: ethos.

Ethos refers to the reputation or authority of the writer regarding the topic of their essay or speech and to how they use this to appeal to their audience. Just like we are more likely to buy a product from a brand or vendor we have confidence in than one we don’t know or have reason to distrust, Ethos-driven texts or speeches rely on the reputation of the author to persuade the reader or listener. When you analyze an essay, you should therefore look at how the writer establishes Ethos through rhetorical devices.

Does the author present themselves as an authority on their subject? If so, how? 

Do they highlight how impeccable their own behavior is to make a moral argument? 

Do they present themselves as an expert by listing their qualifications or experience to convince the reader of their opinion on something?

Rhetorical appeal #2: Pathos

The purpose of Pathos-driven rhetoric is to appeal to the reader’s emotions. A common example of pathos as a rhetorical means is adverts by charities that try to make you donate money to a “good cause”. To evoke the intended emotions in the reader, an author may use passionate language, tell personal stories, and employ vivid imagery so that the reader can imagine themselves in a certain situation and feel empathy with or anger towards others.

Rhetorical appeal #3: Logos

Logos, the “logical” appeal, uses reason to persuade. Reason and logic, supported by data, evidence, clearly defined methodology, and well-constructed arguments, are what most academic writing is based on. Emotions, those of the researcher/writer as well as those of the reader, should stay out of such academic texts, as should anyone’s reputation, beliefs, or personal opinions. 

Text and Context

To analyze a piece of writing, a speech, an advertisement, or even a satirical drawing, you need to look beyond the piece of communication and take the context in which it was created and/or published into account. 

Who is the person who wrote the text/drew the cartoon/designed the ad..? What audience are they trying to reach? Where was the piece published and what was happening there around that time? 

A political speech, for example, can be powerful even when read decades later, but the historical context surrounding it is an important aspect of the effect it was intended to have. 

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

To make any kind of argument, a writer needs to put forward specific claims, support them with data or evidence or even a moral or emotional appeal, and connect the dots logically so that the reader can follow along and agree with the points made.

The connections between statements, so-called “warrants”, follow logical reasoning but are not always clearly stated—the author simply assumes the reader understands the underlying logic, whether they present it “explicitly” or “implicitly”. Implicit warrants are commonly used in advertisements where seemingly happy people use certain products, wear certain clothes, accessories, or perfumes, or live certain lifestyles – with the connotation that, first, the product/perfume/lifestyle is what makes that person happy and, second, the reader wants to be as happy as the person in the ad. Some warrants are never clearly stated, and your job when writing a rhetorical analysis essay is therefore to identify them and bring them to light, to evaluate their validity, their effect on the reader, and the use of such means by the writer/creator. 

What are the Five Rhetorical Situations?

A “rhetorical situation” refers to the circumstance behind a text or other piece of communication that arises from a given context. It explains why a rhetorical piece was created, what its purpose is, and how it was constructed to achieve its aims.

Rhetorical situations can be classified into the following five categories:

Asking such questions when you analyze a text will help you identify all the aspects that play a role in the effect it has on its audience, and will allow you to evaluate whether it achieved its aims or where it may have failed to do so.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Analyzing someone else’s work can seem like a big task, but as with every assignment or writing endeavor, you can break it down into smaller, well-defined steps that give you a practical structure to follow. 

To give you an example of how the different parts of your text may look when it’s finished, we will provide you with some excerpts from this rhetorical analysis essay example (which even includes helpful comments) published on the Online Writing Lab website of Excelsior University in Albany, NY. The text that this essay analyzes is this article on why one should or shouldn’t buy an Ipad. If you want more examples so that you can build your own rhetorical analysis template, have a look at this essay on Nabokov’s Lolita and the one provided here about the “Shitty First Drafts” chapter of Anne Lamott’s writing instruction book “Bird by Bird”.

Analyzing the Text

When writing a rhetorical analysis, you don’t choose the concepts or key points you think are relevant or want to address. Rather, you carefully read the text several times asking yourself questions like those listed in the last section on rhetorical situations to identify how the text “works” and how it was written to achieve that effect.

Start with focusing on the author : What do you think was their purpose for writing the text? Do they make one principal claim and then elaborate on that? Or do they discuss different topics? 

Then look at what audience they are talking to: Do they want to make a group of people take some action? Vote for someone? Donate money to a good cause? Who are these people? Is the text reaching this specific audience? Why or why not?

What tone is the author using to address their audience? Are they trying to evoke sympathy? Stir up anger? Are they writing from a personal perspective? Are they painting themselves as an authority on the topic? Are they using academic or informal language?

How does the author support their claims ? What kind of evidence are they presenting? Are they providing explicit or implicit warrants? Are these warrants valid or problematic? Is the provided evidence convincing?  

Asking yourself such questions will help you identify what rhetorical devices a text uses and how well they are put together to achieve a certain aim. Remember, your own opinion and whether you agree with the author are not the point of a rhetorical analysis essay – your task is simply to take the text apart and evaluate it.

If you are still confused about how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, just follow the steps outlined below to write the different parts of your rhetorical analysis: As every other essay, it consists of an Introduction , a Body (the actual analysis), and a Conclusion .

Rhetorical Analysis Introduction

The Introduction section briefly presents the topic of the essay you are analyzing, the author, their main claims, a short summary of the work by you, and your thesis statement . 

Tell the reader what the text you are going to analyze represents (e.g., historically) or why it is relevant (e.g., because it has become some kind of reference for how something is done). Describe what the author claims, asserts, or implies and what techniques they use to make their argument and persuade their audience. Finish off with your thesis statement that prepares the reader for what you are going to present in the next section – do you think that the author’s assumptions/claims/arguments were presented in a logical/appealing/powerful way and reached their audience as intended?

Have a look at an excerpt from the sample essay linked above to see what a rhetorical analysis introduction can look like. See how it introduces the author and article , the context in which it originally appeared , the main claims the author makes , and how this first paragraph ends in a clear thesis statement that the essay will then elaborate on in the following Body section:

Cory Doctorow ’s article on BoingBoing is an older review of the iPad , one of Apple’s most famous products. At the time of this article, however, the iPad was simply the latest Apple product to hit the market and was not yet so popular. Doctorow’s entire career has been entrenched in and around technology. He got his start as a CD-ROM programmer and is now a successful blogger and author. He is currently the co-editor of the BoingBoing blog on which this article was posted. One of his main points in this article comes from Doctorow’s passionate advocacy of free digital media sharing. He argues that the iPad is just another way for established technology companies to control our technological freedom and creativity . In “ Why I Won’t Buy an iPad (and Think You Shouldn’t, Either) ” published on Boing Boing in April of 2010, Cory Doctorow successfully uses his experience with technology, facts about the company Apple, and appeals to consumer needs to convince potential iPad buyers that Apple and its products, specifically the iPad, limit the digital rights of those who use them by controlling and mainstreaming the content that can be used and created on the device . 

Doing the Rhetorical Analysis

The main part of your analysis is the Body , where you dissect the text in detail. Explain what methods the author uses to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience. Use Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle and the other key concepts we introduced above. Use quotations from the essay to demonstrate what you mean. Work out why the writer used a certain approach and evaluate (and again, demonstrate using the text itself) how successful they were. Evaluate the effect of each rhetorical technique you identify on the audience and judge whether the effect is in line with the author’s intentions.

To make it easy for the reader to follow your thought process, divide this part of your essay into paragraphs that each focus on one strategy or one concept , and make sure they are all necessary and contribute to the development of your argument(s).

One paragraph of this section of your essay could, for example, look like this:

One example of Doctorow’s position is his comparison of Apple’s iStore to Wal-Mart. This is an appeal to the consumer’s logic—or an appeal to logos. Doctorow wants the reader to take his comparison and consider how an all-powerful corporation like the iStore will affect them. An iPad will only allow for apps and programs purchased through the iStore to be run on it; therefore, a customer must not only purchase an iPad but also any programs he or she wishes to use. Customers cannot create their own programs or modify the hardware in any way. 

As you can see, the author of this sample essay identifies and then explains to the reader how Doctorow uses the concept of Logos to appeal to his readers – not just by pointing out that he does it but by dissecting how it is done.

Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion

The conclusion section of your analysis should restate your main arguments and emphasize once more whether you think the author achieved their goal. Note that this is not the place to introduce new information—only rely on the points you have discussed in the body of your essay. End with a statement that sums up the impact the text has on its audience and maybe society as a whole:

Overall, Doctorow makes a good argument about why there are potentially many better things to drop a great deal of money on instead of the iPad. He gives some valuable information and facts that consumers should take into consideration before going out to purchase the new device. He clearly uses rhetorical tools to help make his case, and, overall, he is effective as a writer, even if, ultimately, he was ineffective in convincing the world not to buy an iPad . 

Frequently Asked Questions about Rhetorical Analysis Essays 

What is a rhetorical analysis essay.

A rhetorical analysis dissects a text or another piece of communication to work out and explain how it impacts its audience, how successfully it achieves its aims, and what rhetorical devices it uses to do that. 

While argumentative essays usually take a stance on a certain topic and argue for it, a rhetorical analysis identifies how someone else constructs their arguments and supports their claims.

What is the correct rhetorical analysis essay format?

Like most other essays, a rhetorical analysis contains an Introduction that presents the thesis statement, a Body that analyzes the piece of communication, explains how arguments have been constructed, and illustrates how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section that summarizes the results of the analysis. 

What is the “rhetorical triangle”?

The rhetorical triangle was introduced by Aristotle as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience: Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, Ethos to the writer’s status or authority, and Pathos to the reader’s emotions. Logos, Ethos, and Pathos can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify what specific concepts each is based on.

Let Wordvice help you write a flawless rhetorical analysis essay! 

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

• 3-minute read
• 22nd August 2023

A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of academic writing that analyzes how authors use language, persuasion techniques , and other rhetorical strategies to communicate with their audience. In this post, we’ll review how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, including:

• Understanding the assignment guidelines
• Introducing your essay topic
• Examining the rhetorical strategies
• Summarizing your main points

Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to rhetorical analysis.

What Is a Rhetorical Strategy?

A rhetorical strategy is a deliberate approach or technique a writer uses to convey a message and/or persuade the audience. A rhetorical strategy typically involves using language, sentence structure, and tone/style to influence the audience to think a certain way or understand a specific point of view. Rhetorical strategies are especially common in advertisements, speeches, and political writing, but you can also find them in many other types of literature.

1.   Understanding the Assignment Guidelines

Before you begin your rhetorical analysis essay, make sure you understand the assignment and guidelines. Typically, when writing a rhetorical analysis, you should approach the text objectively, focusing on the techniques the author uses rather than expressing your own opinions about the topic or summarizing the content. Thus, it’s essential to discuss the rhetorical methods used and then back up your analysis with evidence and quotations from the text.

2.   Introducing Your Essay Topic

Introduce your essay by providing some context about the text you’re analyzing. Give a brief overview of the author, intended audience, and purpose of the writing. You should also clearly state your thesis , which is your main point or argument about how and why the author uses rhetorical strategies. Try to avoid going into detail on any points or diving into specific examples – the introduction should be concise, and you’ll be providing a much more in-depth analysis later in the text.

3.   Examining the Rhetorical Strategies

In the body paragraphs, analyze the rhetorical strategies the author uses. Here are some common rhetorical strategies to include in your discussion:

●  Ethos : Establishing trust between the writer and the audience by appealing to credibility and ethics

●  Pathos : Appealing to the audience’s emotions and values

●  Logos : Employing logic, reason, and evidence to appeal to the reader

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●  Diction : Deliberately choosing specific language and vocabulary

●  Syntax : Structuring and arranging sentences in certain ways

●  Tone : Conveying attitude or mood in certain ways

●  Literary Devices : Using metaphors, similes, analogies , repetition, etc.

Keep in mind that for a rhetorical analysis essay, you’re not usually required to find examples of all of the above rhetorical strategies. But for each one you do analyze, consider how it contributes to the author’s purpose, how it influences the audience, and what emotions or thoughts it could evoke in the reader.

4.   Summarizing Your Main Points

In your conclusion , sum up the main points of your analysis and restate your thesis. Without introducing any new points (such as topics or ideas you haven’t already covered in the main body of your essay), summarize the overall impact that the author’s rhetorical strategies likely had on their intended audience.

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100 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Rhetorical analysis essay topics always stood out from other tasks of similar nature. There are many assignments students get at college, but this one is more difficult, largely because few people understand what it even means. Rhetorical analysis means writing an essay where you research a specific text or speech and determine what elements it contains to impact the audience.

These could be literary devices, plot, characterization, style, method of influence, and many other things. To write a good essay, you should understand what makes an author’s rhetoric effective, but even more importantly, you must choose an appropriate topic for your future analysis. The choice is vast, so it’s not an easy task, but fortunately, we have many interesting options you could choose from.

How to Pick Rhetorical Analysis Ideas

The first thing to know is that any topic you select must resonate with your believes in particular. Sure, it has to have academic value — one cannot just write whatever comes into their mind, but your own interest is almost equally important. If you think the text you’re analyzing is boring, you’ll never succeed with your essay. If you hate your chosen topic, there is actually a bigger chance of getting great results with it because you could always pick a negative stance, introducing an argument against the author’s usage of literary techniques. So, passion for the text is everything, whether it’s of positive or negative nature. Recall any works that affected you on some level and use them as the basis for your essay.

Another strategy for picking good topics for rhetorical analysis is to discuss it with friends or professors. They might not know your preferences, but they could give new ideas through their brainstorming. Doing research before you start working on assignment is also crucial. For example, you decided to analyze a short article written by an unknown writer, but you don’t entirely understand how rhetorical analysis works. You won’t be able to find other similar analyses available, so you’ll be stuck. If this is your first try, be sure to select an essay topic other people have already explored before — it’ll give an idea of how to proceed.

100 Rhetorical Analysis Topics List Developed for You

Still feeling uncertain? It’s not a problem, so there is no need to worry! Take a look at the list we’ve composed below. It has 100 topics you could use for your essay.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essays Topics

Let’s start with something you won’t have any problems with! Some texts are widely known, so finding research on them isn’t difficult.

• What literary devices used in “Pride and Prejudice” turn this book into being so popular even now?
• Literary tactics used within Wordsworth’s poems
• What symbolism do Harry Potter’s green eyes have?
• What makes TV Hannibal Lecter’s monologues influential?
• Fox Mulder’s vs. Dana Scully’s modes of persuasion
• How true love is depicted in cartoons to resonate with children?
• Tone of TV Sherlock Holmes & Why he rubs people the wrong way
• Why are King Arthur’s speeches inspiring within ‘Merlin’ TV show?
• Describe setting of the Hunger Games & Explain what makes it gruesome
• Explore choice of dresses in your favorite TV show & Explain what it implies

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Ideas For High School

Good rhetorical analysis essay topics for high school are also pretty easy. Here they are.

• Frankenstein novel and movies: Their stylistic similarities and differences
• Why is Ron Weasley less compelling character for many readers/viewers?
• How setting in ‘Games of Thrones’ reflects its plot
• Which elements help create the perfect setting in magical realism genre
• Why are movies usually worse than books they are based on?
• Harry Potter in the movies vs. books: Differences in portrayal
• Elements within fiction that inspire fans to write fanfiction on its basis
• Three stories by Kate Chopin – Their similarities in terms of stylistics
• Why Romeo and Juliet are still known in our days?
• Details about secondary characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”

Rhetorical Essay Prompts For College

How about rhetorical analysis example topics for college? They are a little more complicated, but it just makes them all the more interesting!

• Your favorite Shakespeare’s poem & Why you like it
• Role that color green plays in Twilight saga
• Analyze appearance of vampires from Twilight vs. Interview with a Vampire
• Compare movies based on Stephen King’s works versus his novels
• Explore every chilling element in “The Birthmark” by Hawthorne
• Choose your favorite novel and elaborate on how characters communicate in it
• Soap operas & Why many people consider characters’ behavior in them exaggerated
• Setting and conflict in Joyce’s “Ulysses”
• Analyze the major conflict in Tolstoy’s “War and Peace”
• Elements of presidency and dictatorship within “Hunger Games”

Non-Fictional Ideas

Analyzing fiction is the most popular choice, but how about rhetorical essay topics on other kinds of works?

• Trump’s least effective speech: Why was it not successful?
• Obama’s introduction of new health policies: How did people react?
• What tactics should ancient kings’ speeches follow to motivate their armies?
• Surrender speech, its weaknesses & strengths
• What elements should historical books have to be perceived as convincing?
• Pathos in real-life stories written by survivors of tragic events
• How to separate true accounts written by victims from fake ones?
• Choose any article written by journalist and analyze its efficiency
• Ethos in reports presented by medical personnel
• Logos of arguments used by teachers to prove usefulness of their subjects to students

 Rhetorical Topics for Art and Culture

Creative topics for rhetorical analysis essay is something lots of students prefer.

• Why is Mona Lisa’s smile considered elusive?
• Painting that stopped you in your tracks
• Most successful billboards ever created
• Least effective billboards you have ever seen
• Song that you consider the best representative of your culture
• Advertisement that struck a chord with you
• Can rap be considered American cultural heritage?
• What makes known blogs popular?
• Which elements help make a successful ad?
• What design of an apartment could say about its owner

Ideas for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Movies

Probably everyone likes movies. If so, these rhetoric topics might be your best pick.

• Analyze actors’ performance in ‘Titanic’: Is it believable?
• How do horror movies manage to scare their audience?
• How fighting scenes in ‘Twilight’ look
• ‘Saw’ movie: A mindless horror or a chilling thriller?
• Which version of King Kong is better and why?
• Analyze the oldest movie and techniques used in it for influencing audience.
• Which Harry Potter movie is the worst in an entire franchise?
• Compare versions of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ & State which one stays closest to the original
• Can we consider “Jurassic Park” impressive in our days?
• Compare Chinese action movies against American ones

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History Prompts

The past is fascinating, and these rhetorical analysis paper topics could help analyze it more deeply.

• Pick an old historical figure & Analyze how they became known
• Winston Churchill: His actions versus his words
• What people thought about honesty in the past & How did they express it?
• Why are many important historical documents locked away from the public?
• Analyze reasons for WW2 based on available historical documents
• How weddings were organized in the past & What do people do now to express their love?
• What role symbolism played in Ancient Egypt?
• People’s dreams of immortality and how they progressed over the years based on literature & art
• Understanding how Syrian politics promoted war
• Analyze setting in Troy and reasons that brought war into it

Advanced Rhetorical Ideas

If you like a challenge, check out these more difficult rhetorical essay topic ideas.

• Portrayal of hope in three different works of art: How did their authors express it?
• Value and meaning of food as presented in “Hunger Games”
• What does the Stag man mean in TV show “Hannibal”?
• Depictions of Mind Palace in “Sherlock” and “Hannibal”
• Christmas in poor vs. rich families in literature: How are they portrayed?
• Analyze every speech of Martin Luther King in regard to their effectiveness
• How animals communicate within different literary works
• Compare & Contrast leadership strategies of two historically relevant people
• Why is Mother Teresa talked about still? Delve deeply into reasons
• Pick two different ambitious people & Evaluate how they fought to realize these ambitions

Enjoy What You Write and Write What You Enjoy

We hope that our list of topics helped find good rhetorical analysis topics. Pick any idea and develop it into a unique essay. Personal involvement means a lot when it comes to analysis, especially of a rhetorical nature. Since it requires taking firm position on a subject, you should have an actual interest in it. Remember what stories you’ve read before, think about the last inspirational or funny speech, and you’re ready to go!

But if something else is bothering you and you don’t feel up to looking for topics for rhetorical analysis, let us know. We’ve been assisting students in different ways including essay, research paper of coursework writing service  for quite a while, so we could help figure out which theme to choose or even craft an essay in your stead. Explain your requirements, talk with your specialist, and get your essay done right by your deadline.

Can’t come up with a topic for you paper? We’ve prepared a collection of essay topics for you

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Guide

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Top Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Students

By: Betty P.

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Feb 25, 2020

A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of essay in which you write about a piece of literature, art, or speech. Most of the students find it extremely stressful and scary to write rhetorical essays. They have no idea what it is, how to write one because they are not into reading.

Are you one of those students?

We cannot help it because, If you want to get an A in this type of assignment. You need to read the book thoroughly. Also, analyze the literary devices employed in the book. But we can help you get some rhetoric essay ideas.

Many students are stuck at the very beginning of writing this type of essay. They don’t know how to select a topic or subject to analyze.

In this blog, you get a complete list of interesting topics to help you in your writing phase.

On this Page

Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Students

A good topic is the key to a perfect essay. Here is a list of topics for essays that assist you in making the right choice.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

• "The Odyssey" And "Beowulf"
• "The Prince" Summary
• The symbolism of Bullfighting In “The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway.
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Romeo And Juliet"
• Rhetorical Analysis of "The Great Gatsby"
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Hamlet"
• Main Themes And Analysis of Plato's "Republic"
• "The Picture Of Dorian Gray" Summary
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Pride And Prejudice"
• Rhetorical Analysis of “The Fault in Our Stars”

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

• An attitude of consumers towards Fast Fashion
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Cultural Industry
• Consumers Habits: Women Vs. Men“
• 1950’s Fashion” Rhetorical Analysis
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Commercials and the Media“
• 1970’s Fashion” Analysis
• Martin Luther King jr last speech
• Rhetorical Analysis of E-commerce
• “Electronic Media and Culture” Rhetorical Analysis
• Environment and Consumerism Analysis

Sports Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• Rhetorical Analysis of “Olympics”
• “NFL And the Concussion Rules”
• BCS or Playoffs
• Kobe or LeBron
• Players or Owners
• Rhetorical Analysis of Presidential Sports Encomia
• Rhetorical Analysis of Symbolic Power of Sports
• Rhetorical Analysis of the use of steroids
• Rhetorical Analysis on “Football World Cup”

Fiction Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• O'Henry’s "Witches Loaves"
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Huckleberry Finn"
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Fight Club"
• Michael Punke’s "The Revenant""The White Heron" Analysis
• Rhetorical Analysis of “Death of A Salesman"
• "The Lottery" Main ThemesLiterary Analysis of "Life In The Iron Mills"
• "Alice In The Wonderland" Primary Themes"
• The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand Analysis

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• A blog that you are passionate about
• England in 1819” by Percy Bysshe Shelley.
• Do we allow our fears to restrain us from action?
• Is there anything weird in the rhetoric of Amy Poehler?
• Faces of love in A Red, Red Rose by Robert Burns.
• Analyze Edgar Allan Poe’s poem ‘Raven.
• ’The similarities and differences between two Ovidian tales
• Steve Jobs commencement speech
• Is there no age for education?
• What is under our feet?

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Movies

• Rhetorical analysis of Romeo + Juliet.
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Analyze TV shows based on true events
• Summary of "The Prince"
• Use of symbolism Harry Potter series
• Analyze a famous historical movie
• Martin Luther King and “I Have a Dream.” How it changes.
• Jennifer Lawrence in the Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
• The Phantom of the Opera
• The Shawshank Redemption

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About Speeches

• “Full Power of Women” by Priyanka Chopra
• Analysis of the farewell address of a famous president
• Joseph Stiglitz’ The Price of Inequality
• A rhetorical analysis of President Biden’s speech on inauguration day
• Speech from President Trump
• Malala Yousafzai speech for students
• Any speech delivered by George W. Bush: what does it carry?
• Rhetorical analysis of Pope Urban II’s Speech at Clermont, 1095.
• Any given Sunday speech

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• The rhetoric of blogs and online writing.
• Animal Farm
• Yellow journalism
• The spirit level
• “The Hunger Games” vs. “The Lottery”
• Art through history
• Out of Africa
• Rhetorical analysis of creative ads
• Culture and arts
• Analyze the text in a famous TV campaign

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• The Hunger Games vs. the Lottery
• Backpacks vs. Briefcases
• Jazz vs. Rock
• "Death of a Salesman" Vs. "The White Heron"
• Lord of the Flies: civilization vs. savagery.
• The Breakfast Club Ending Scene vs. The Danger of a Single Story
• Life in high school vs. life in college
• Adolf Hitler vs. Joseph Stalin
• American vs. Chinese concepts of beauty.
• Gandalf vs. Dumbledore

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for 2022

• Rhetorical Analysis of "The Ethics of Belief" by Clifford
• Summary and Analysis of Jared Diamond’s "Easter Islands' End"
• Rhetorical Analysis of "Success Strategies”
• Anne Lamott’s "Traveling Mercies
• ”Joseph Stiglitz “The Price of Inequality”
• Rhetorical Analysis of “The Sun Is Also a Star”
• Summary and Analysis "Guns, Germs, And Steel”
• Rhetorical Analysis of “Forty Rules of Love”
• “The Host” Summary“
• The Kite Runner” Summary and Analysis

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

When you choose the topic for the rhetorical analysis essay, you should follow some tips. Also, save yourself from selecting a bad essay topic. For your help, we gathered some tips that will make your topic selection phase easy.

• Choose an interesting rhetorical question that has the scope of research or writing.
• Brainstorm the essay topic ideas.
• Pick the one that grabs the reader’s attention.
• You have little information about the topic.
• Select the topic by knowing the opposing viewpoints.
• Consult your professor and get guidance from them for your topic.
• Know the target audience’s interests and choices.
• Collect information about the rhetorical devices that you can discuss in the essay.
• Determine the rhetorical strategy.

We hope that the lists mentioned above will help you select your next rhetorical analysis topic. Therefore, choose the best one according to your interest and scope.

Are you still having trouble choosing your topic or writing your rhetorical analysis essay? Consult 5StarEssays.com . We are here for you round the clock and provide the best essay writing services.

Our qualified essay writers deliver high-quality work at the most affordable rates. You only have to request to write my essay and our writers are ready to help you.

So, place your order now and free yourself from the stress of strict deadlines and poor grades.

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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How to write a rhetorical analysis

What is a rhetorical analysis?

What are the key concepts of a rhetorical analysis, rhetorical situation, claims, supports, and warrants.

• Step 1: Plan and prepare
• Step 2: Write your introduction
• Step 3: Write the body
• Step 4: Write your conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions about rhetorical analysis

Related articles.

Rhetoric is the art of persuasion and aims to study writers’ or speakers' techniques to inform, persuade, or motivate their audience. Thus, a rhetorical analysis aims to explore the goals and motivations of an author, the techniques they’ve used to reach their audience, and how successful these techniques were.

This will generally involve analyzing a specific text and considering the following aspects to connect the rhetorical situation to the text:

• Does the author successfully support the thesis or claims made in the text? Here, you’ll analyze whether the author holds to their argument consistently throughout the text or whether they wander off-topic at some point.
• Does the author use evidence effectively considering the text’s intended audience? Here, you’ll consider the evidence used by the author to support their claims and whether the evidence resonates with the intended audience.
• What rhetorical strategies the author uses to achieve their goals. Here, you’ll consider the word choices by the author and whether these word choices align with their agenda for the text.
• The tone of the piece. Here, you’ll consider the tone used by the author in writing the piece by looking at specific words and aspects that set the tone.
• Whether the author is objective or trying to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint. When it comes to objectivity, you’ll consider whether the author is objective or holds a particular viewpoint they want to convince the audience of. If they are, you’ll also consider whether their persuasion interferes with how the text is read and understood.
• Does the author correctly identify the intended audience? It’s important to consider whether the author correctly writes the text for the intended audience and what assumptions the author makes about the audience.
• Does the text make sense? Here, you’ll consider whether the author effectively reasons, based on the evidence, to arrive at the text’s conclusion.
• Does the author try to appeal to the audience’s emotions? You’ll need to consider whether the author uses any words, ideas, or techniques to appeal to the audience’s emotions.
• Can the author be believed? Finally, you’ll consider whether the audience will accept the arguments and ideas of the author and why.

Summing up, unlike summaries that focus on what an author said, a rhetorical analysis focuses on how it’s said, and it doesn’t rely on an analysis of whether the author was right or wrong but rather how they made their case to arrive at their conclusions.

Although rhetorical analysis is most used by academics as part of scholarly work, it can be used to analyze any text including speeches, novels, television shows or films, advertisements, or cartoons.

Now that we’ve seen what rhetorical analysis is, let’s consider some of its key concepts .

Any rhetorical analysis starts with the rhetorical situation which identifies the relationships between the different elements of the text. These elements include the audience, author or writer, the author’s purpose, the delivery method or medium, and the content:

• Audience: The audience is simply the readers of a specific piece of text or content or printed material. For speeches or other mediums like film and video, the audience would be the listeners or viewers. Depending on the specific piece of text or the author’s perception, the audience might be real, imagined, or invoked. With a real audience, the author writes to the people actually reading or listening to the content while, for an imaginary audience, the author writes to an audience they imagine would read the content. Similarly, for an invoked audience, the author writes explicitly to a specific audience.
• Author or writer: The author or writer, also commonly referred to as the rhetor in the context of rhetorical analysis, is the person or the group of persons who authored the text or content.
• The author’s purpose: The author’s purpose is the author’s reason for communicating to the audience. In other words, the author’s purpose encompasses what the author expects or intends to achieve with the text or content.
• Alphabetic text includes essays, editorials, articles, speeches, and other written pieces.
• Imaging includes website and magazine advertisements, TV commercials, and the like.
• Audio includes speeches, website advertisements, radio or tv commercials, or podcasts.
• Context: The context of the text or content considers the time, place, and circumstances surrounding the delivery of the text to its audience. With respect to context, it might often also be helpful to analyze the text in a different context to determine its impact on a different audience and in different circumstances.

An author will use claims, supports, and warrants to build the case around their argument, irrespective of whether the argument is logical and clearly defined or needs to be inferred by the audience:

• Claim: The claim is the main idea or opinion of an argument that the author must prove to the intended audience. In other words, the claim is the fact or facts the author wants to convince the audience of. Claims are usually explicitly stated but can, depending on the specific piece of content or text, be implied from the content. Although these claims could be anything and an argument may be based on a single or several claims, the key is that these claims should be debatable.
• Support: The supports are used by the author to back up the claims they make in their argument. These supports can include anything from fact-based, objective evidence to subjective emotional appeals and personal experiences used by the author to convince the audience of a specific claim. Either way, the stronger and more reliable the supports, the more likely the audience will be to accept the claim.
• Warrant: The warrants are the logic and assumptions that connect the supports to the claims. In other words, they’re the assumptions that make the initial claim possible. The warrant is often unstated, and the author assumes that the audience will be able to understand the connection between the claims and supports. In turn, this is based on the author’s assumption that they share a set of values and beliefs with the audience that will make them understand the connection mentioned above. Conversely, if the audience doesn’t share these beliefs and values with the author, the argument will not be that effective.

Appeals are used by authors to convince their audience and, as such, are an integral part of the rhetoric and are often referred to as the rhetorical triangle. As a result, an author may combine all three appeals to convince their audience:

• Ethos: Ethos represents the authority or credibility of the author. To be successful, the author needs to convince the audience of their authority or credibility through the language and delivery techniques they use. This will, for example, be the case where an author writing on a technical subject positions themselves as an expert or authority by referring to their qualifications or experience.
• Logos: Logos refers to the reasoned argument the author uses to persuade their audience. In other words, it refers to the reasons or evidence the author proffers in substantiation of their claims and can include facts, statistics, and other forms of evidence. For this reason, logos is also the dominant approach in academic writing where authors present and build up arguments using reasoning and evidence.
• Pathos: Through pathos, also referred to as the pathetic appeal, the author attempts to evoke the audience’s emotions through the use of, for instance, passionate language, vivid imagery, anger, sympathy, or any other emotional response.

To write a rhetorical analysis, you need to follow the steps below:

With a rhetorical analysis, you don’t choose concepts in advance and apply them to a specific text or piece of content. Rather, you’ll have to analyze the text to identify the separate components and plan and prepare your analysis accordingly.

Here, it might be helpful to use the SOAPSTone technique to identify the components of the work. SOAPSTone is a common acronym in analysis and represents the:

• Speaker . Here, you’ll identify the author or the narrator delivering the content to the audience.
• Occasion . With the occasion, you’ll identify when and where the story takes place and what the surrounding context is.
• Audience . Here, you’ll identify who the audience or intended audience is.
• Purpose . With the purpose, you’ll need to identify the reason behind the text or what the author wants to achieve with their writing.
• Subject . You’ll also need to identify the subject matter or topic of the text.
• Tone . The tone identifies the author’s feelings towards the subject matter or topic.

Apart from gathering the information and analyzing the components mentioned above, you’ll also need to examine the appeals the author uses in writing the text and attempting to persuade the audience of their argument. Moreover, you’ll need to identify elements like word choice, word order, repetition, analogies, and imagery the writer uses to get a reaction from the audience.

Once you’ve gathered the information and examined the appeals and strategies used by the author as mentioned above, you’ll need to answer some questions relating to the information you’ve collected from the text. The answers to these questions will help you determine the reasons for the choices the author made and how well these choices support the overall argument.

Here, some of the questions you’ll ask include:

• What was the author’s intention?
• Who was the intended audience?
• What is the author’s argument?
• What strategies does the author use to build their argument and why do they use those strategies?
• What appeals the author uses to convince and persuade the audience?
• What effect the text has on the audience?

Keep in mind that these are just some of the questions you’ll ask, and depending on the specific text, there might be others.

Once you’ve done your preparation, you can start writing the rhetorical analysis. It will start off with an introduction which is a clear and concise paragraph that shows you understand the purpose of the text and gives more information about the author and the relevance of the text.

The introduction also summarizes the text and the main ideas you’ll discuss in your analysis. Most importantly, however, is your thesis statement . This statement should be one sentence at the end of the introduction that summarizes your argument and tempts your audience to read on and find out more about it.

After your introduction, you can proceed with the body of your analysis. Here, you’ll write at least three paragraphs that explain the strategies and techniques used by the author to convince and persuade the audience, the reasons why the writer used this approach, and why it’s either successful or unsuccessful.

You can structure the body of your analysis in several ways. For example, you can deal with every strategy the author uses in a new paragraph, but you can also structure the body around the specific appeals the author used or chronologically.

No matter how you structure the body and your paragraphs, it’s important to remember that you support each one of your arguments with facts, data, examples, or quotes and that, at the end of every paragraph, you tie the topic back to your original thesis.

Finally, you’ll write the conclusion of your rhetorical analysis. Here, you’ll repeat your thesis statement and summarize the points you’ve made in the body of your analysis. Ultimately, the goal of the conclusion is to pull the points of your analysis together so you should be careful to not raise any new issues in your conclusion.

After you’ve finished your conclusion, you’ll end your analysis with a powerful concluding statement of why your argument matters and an invitation to conduct more research if needed.

A rhetorical analysis aims to explore the goals and motivations of an author, the techniques they’ve used to reach their audience, and how successful these techniques were. Although rhetorical analysis is most used by academics as part of scholarly work, it can be used to analyze any text including speeches, novels, television shows or films, advertisements, or cartoons.

The steps to write a rhetorical analysis include:

Your rhetorical analysis introduction is a clear and concise paragraph that shows you understand the purpose of the text and gives more information about the author and the relevance of the text. The introduction also summarizes the text and the main ideas you’ll discuss in your analysis.

Ethos represents the authority or credibility of the author. To be successful, the author needs to convince the audience of their authority or credibility through the language and delivery techniques they use. This will, for example, be the case where an author writing on a technical subject positions themselves as an expert or authority by referring to their qualifications or experience.

Appeals are used by authors to convince their audience and, as such, are an integral part of the rhetoric and are often referred to as the rhetorical triangle. The 3 types of appeals are ethos, logos, and pathos.

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122 Various Rhetorical Analysis Topics To Help Your Progress

Many students don’t know where to start when choosing rhetorical analysis topics for academic papers. That’s because writing about these topics requires students to explore the subject in detail and prove their standpoint. Usually, educators expect learners to use effective and persuasive methods to achieve this goal. In simple terms, a rhetorical essay involves writing about writing.

This article presents a rhetorical analysis topics list for learners at different educational levels. It’s useful because it provides helpful ideas to help students with difficulties create interesting titles for their papers.

What Is Rhetorical Analysis?

Before diving into the list of rhetorical analysis topics, let’s define rhetoric.

A dictionary will say rhetoric is “the effective or persuasive art of writing or speaking, especially one that exploits figures of speech and other compositional techniques.”

However, rhetoric is more than just an art form. It’s also a tool that a writer can use to achieve a specific goal. In the context of academic writing, learners often use rhetoric to persuade the reader to see things from their point of view.

For example, consider the following statement:

“The death penalty is naturally an inhuman and cruel punishment that governments should abolish.”

This statement is an example of rhetoric because the writer uses persuasive language to make an argument. They want to convince the reader that the death penalty is wrong and governments should stop it.

What Are Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics?

Good rhetorical analysis titles allow the writer to analyze something and its effect on the audience or themselves. Although a rhetorical analysis essay can be about a speech or literature, it can also be about a movie or art. Some educators even ask learners to write rhetorical analyses about billboards or commercials. Nevertheless, an ideal topic allows the writer to acquire and analyze sufficient information.

Remember, the goal of a rhetorical analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of an argument or a piece of work. Therefore, pick a topic that allows you to do this. Once you’ve known what rhetorical analysis is and what makes good topics, let’s delve into some of the titles worth considering.

Best Topics For Rhetorical Analysis In 2023

Maybe you’re looking for the best ideas to consider for your academic essays or papers. In that case, here are some of the titles to consider for your write-up.

• How social media affects body image
• Common rhetorical strategies in advertising
• What is the relationship between violence and video games?
• How does music affect mood?
• The role of the internet in education
• Should governments lower the legal drinking age?
• Should governments legalize marijuana?
• Euthanasia: To be or not to be?
• Cloning: The ethical implications and applications
• Is homeschooling a viable educational alternative?
• Is childhood obesity a reflection of bad parenting?
• Are beauty pageants exploitative?
• Should the government censor the internet?
• Can the death penalty deter crime?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Are zoos ethical?
• Should governments dictate the number of children a family can have?
• Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their child?
• Is it ethical to buy organs on the black market?
• What are the ethical implications of human cloning?
• The impact of social media on relationships
• How do the media influence body image and eating disorders?
• The effect of advertising on consumerism
• Exploring music’s influence on emotions
• Investigating the internet’s impact on education
• The changing face of family structure and its effects
• The pros and cons of homeschooling
• Cyber-bullying- Its impact and how to prevent it
• School uniforms: Are they necessary?
• Religion in schools: Should the government allow it?
• Censorship in schools: What are the criteria for choosing books, art, music, and film?
• Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student ability?
• Is tracking students by ability level beneficial?
• Should schools eliminate homework?
• Is the current educational system preparing students for the workforce?

Pick any of these ideas and investigate them to provide a detailed analysis. You can consult different sources to present an informative paper.

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For College Students

Perhaps, you’re pursuing your college or university education, and the professor wants you to write a rhetorical analysis essay. In that case, here’s a list of topic ideas to consider for your paper.

• How do authors use ethos, pathos, and logos in their work?
• What is the purpose of the author’s argument?- Provide an example
• Choose a piece of literary work and describe the target audience
• Explain the methods the author uses to persuade their audience- Choose your scholarly work.
• Explain the implications of the author’s argument in your preferred literary work
• Use an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of the author’s rhetoric
• The rhetoric issue in Plato’s Republic
• Why did “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King break the internet?
• Rhetorical analysis of the film, Black Panther
• Analyze the speech writing power in George Washington’s speeches
• Rhetorical devices and their use in television advertising
• Analyzing the rhetorical analysis devices in the Monalisa portrait
• Literary devices and their function in plays and poetry
• Rhetorical devices in Harry Porter
• Analyzing the September 11 speech- Which rhetorical devices stand out?
• How online content like blogs use rhetoric
• Analyze your favorite book and show how it affected your life
• Analyze rhetorical devices in your preferred political speech of the 21st century
• How technology facilitates the manipulation of rhetoric devices
• Analyzing rhetorical devices in Charles Spurgeon’s sermons
• Rhetorical analysis of The Great Dictator by Charlie Chaplin
• Critical analysis of a scene from your favorite movie- Highlight rhetoric devices
• What marks acceptance speeches, and how do speakers use rhetorical devices
• Rhetoric in preaching- How preachers impact the congregation
• Discuss how authors use solitude in literature

These college-level rhetorical analysis ideas allow you to investigate different aspects of writing. Also, they provide a detailed perspective that helps you understand how to approach the assignments.

Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics For High School Learners

Maybe you’re in high school, and the teacher wants you to write a rhetorical analysis essay. If so, this list has ideal titles to consider for your paper.

• Can a real friendship exist between a dog and a man?
• Language is crucial to society- A detailed rhetorical analysis
• The dog is the best housekeeper- A rhetorical analysis of this phrase
• A comparison of how men and women consume ad messages
• Rhetorical analysis of women’s attitudes towards fashion compared to men
• Consumerism and environment- A rhetorical analysis
• Analysis and summary of “The Kite Runner.”
• The Animal Farm- A detailed rhetorical analysis of this book
• Write a rhetorical analysis essay on your favorite birthday
• A detailed rhetorical analysis of a speech by the school’s head teacher on graduation day
• Rhetorical analysis of the inaugural address by your favorite teacher
• Rhetorical analysis of a Nobel Peace Prize Winner’s speech
• Rhetorical analysis and themes of William Shakespeare’s Pride and Prejudice
• Online consumers- A detailed rhetorical analysis of their behavior
• A rhetorical analysis of the electronic media’s impact on culture
• Social media and its power- A rhetorical analysis of its power in turning the world into a global village
• Olympics and World Cup- A detailed rhetorical analysis
• National anthem in Olympic games- A rhetorical analysis
• A rhetorical analysis of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
• Primary themes in Alice in the Wanderland- A rhetorical analysis

These are good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on if you’re in high school. However, you may want to read some books or study the works to write informative and winning papers.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Maybe you don’t have adequate time to read or investigate somebody else’s work and write about it. In that case, the following ideas could be excellent for your titles.

• The Hunger Games- What are this work’s most practical rhetorical strategies?
• How ancient and modern stylistic devices differ
• A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf- Exploring the primary rhetorical devices
• Rhetorical analysis of the class representative’s speech on the Memorial Day
• The Picture of Dorian Gray- Investigating the critical stylistic devices
• Develop a rhetorical composition of varying religious texts
• Rhetorical analysis of Mona Lisa’s smile and its meaning
• A detailed rhetorical analysis of pop-culture songs
• Rhetorical analysis of Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso
• Heroism as a theme- How does it come out in different literary works?
• How authors handle race and prejudice in their works
• Rhetorical strategies in Harry Potter’s work
• Rhetorical analysis of a speech by Alexander the Great
• Themes and their relevance in literary texts about love and hope
• Rhetorical analysis of Louisa May Alcott in promoting feminism
• Investigating the American National Anthem- What are the vital rhetorical devices?
• Does the Fight Song by Rachel Platten mark creativity and art?
• Why do Ted Talks attract so many listeners?
• How advertisers curate poster and billboard language in advertising
• The impact of vivid description and symbols on literary work’s visual impression

These rhetoric topics are relatively easy to write about, but some may require a little research. Nevertheless, most learners will find working on these subjects straightforward.

Rhetoric Research Paper Topics

Maybe you’re writing a research paper and need a rhetorical title. If so, consider these ideas for your project or thesis from professional dissertation writers .

• How has the definition of rhetoric changed over time?
• What are the different types of rhetoric?
• How do persuasive and argumentative rhetorics differ?
• What are the ethical implications of rhetoric?
• How does rhetoric affect society?
• How can authors use rhetoric for good or evil?
• How art uses rhetoric
• Creative ads and symbolism
• Game of Thrones- How does the film use visual arts?
• Rhetorical devices in digital media campaigns
• How does the film/television show portray its characters?
• What is the purpose of the film/television show?
• Who is the target audience for this piece?
• What methods does the film/television show use to persuade its audience?
• What are the implications of the film/television show?
• Is the film/television show’s rhetoric effective? Why or why not?
• Works about GMO and human health- A rhetorical analysis
• Automated system use and rhetorical devices
• Sports segregation by gender- a rhetorical analysis
• Data privacy and social media- A detailed rhetorical analysis
• College athletes’ payment- A rhetorical analysis
• Investigating gun legalization- Rhetorical analysis of this topic

These are some of the best rhetorical analysis example topics to consider for your essay or paper. Choose a title that interests you and investigate it to present a detailed perspective.

Get Custom Essay Help Online

Maybe you have a title for your paper but not the time or skills to write a quality essay. In that case, get help from our experts to write a winning piece or undergraduate thesis . We’re professional writers with a proven track record of helping learners across the academic levels. Our crew makes completing a writing assignment an awesome experience. You will realize that writing a rhetorical paper is fun with our assistance. We will deliver a masterpiece even if you need help with an advanced essay.

Moreover, we guarantee the security of the information you share with us. Also, you will consistently score top grades whenever you seek our assistance. Contact us now!

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Rhetorical analysis, artistic and inartistic proofs, building analysis by prewriting, thesis, body, and conclusion, also recommended for you:.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis: 6 Steps and an Outline for Your Next Essay

by Kaelyn Barron | 6 comments

Students are often given the assignment of writing a rhetorical analysis, in which they must analyze how a speaker makes an argument, and evaluate whether or not they do so effectively.

However, this practice is useful not only for students, but for all of us who want to evaluate everyday arguments—whether they’re made by advertisers, politicians, or our friends—and learn to think more critically on our own.

What Is a Rhetorical Analysis?

A rhetorical analysis is an essay that examines and evaluates a text (or sometimes other types of media, such as video) based on its rhetoric . Rather than focusing on what the actual message is, a rhetorical analysis looks at how that message is created and delivered.

In writing your rhetorical analysis, you’ll examine the author or creator’s goals, techniques, and appeals to their audience (which you’ll summarize in your essay’s thesis).

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis

Follow these 6 steps to write a rhetorical analysis that’s clear and insightful.

1. Identify the 4 elements of rhetoric.

Start your analysis by taking note of the following rhetorical elements:

Audience : Who is the piece intended for? Depending on the medium being used, the audience might consist of readers, spectators, listeners, or viewers. What might you infer about this audience and their backgrounds (age group, political preferences, etc.)?

Purpose : What is the speaker’s purpose? What is the outcome that they wish or intend to incite? What are they trying to convince their audience of?

Medium : How is the message being delivered? Through writing, video, images, audio, or some other medium?

Context : Consider the time, place, and social climate of when the material was originally produced. What else was going on during that time?

2. Describe the rhetorical appeals.

Identify and describe the rhetorical appeals used by the speaker, as well as other devices, such as tone , syntax , imagery , etc.

The 3 main rhetorical appeals, established by Aristotle, are ethos , pathos , and logos . They describe how the speaker appeals to an audience’s ethics, emotions, and logic, respectively. This can be done in a number of ways, including imagery, anecdotes, examples, or specific data.

3. Analyze.

Next, it’s time to analyze how and why the speaker uses those devices to appeal to their audience.

As noted above, there are many ways for a speaker to use these devices and appeals. Analyze which methods they chose, how they applied them, and why you think they chose them.

4. Evaluate.

Finally, evaluate the author’s success in using these techniques to reach their goals. Do you think they were effective? Why or why not?

If you don’t think they were effective, what effect do you think they will have instead on the audience? Your evaluation is important because it will become your main argument, or thesis.

5. State your thesis.

Now that you’ve completed your analysis of the material, try to summarize it into one clear, concise thesis statement that will form the foundation of your essay.

Your thesis statement should summarize: 1) the argument or purpose of the speaker; 2) the methods the speaker uses; and 3) the effectiveness of those methods.

For example: In [Title of the Work], the author convincingly argues in favor of education reform by using specific data, compelling anecdotes, and her experience as a teacher.

6. Organize your ideas and evidence.

Next, using your thesis statement as a foundation, organize your ideas and evidence into a coherent outline.

For example, you might organize your body paragraphs into 3 categories: one paragraph for each of the rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, and logos), with specific examples of how the speaker makes those appeals.

How Do You Write a Rhetorical Analysis Introduction?

The introduction to your rhetorical analysis essay doesn’t need to be too lengthy or detailed. However, there are a few things you should introduce before jumping into your analysis.

You should start with some contextual information, so your reader can understand what kind of material you’ll be analyzing. Be sure to reference the title, the writer/speaker, and any other relevant details about the work (this can include the year it was published, or background information about what was going on at that time).

Then, you should state your thesis, which will explain what you’ll be arguing in your essay. From there, you can transition into the main body of your analysis.

Rhetorical Analysis Outline

The following outline is an example of how you could structure your rhetorical analysis. To make planning your essay easier, you can simply copy and paste this outline and fill it in with your thesis and supporting examples.

• Describe the 4 elements of rhetoric (audience, purpose, medium, and context), and identify the speaker
• State your thesis
• Describe how the speaker makes an appeal to ethos (the audience’s sense of ethical responsibility)
• Use specific examples, referring to word choice, tone, anecdotes, and other devices
• Describe how the speaker makes an appeal to pathos (the audience’s emotions)
• Describe how the speaker makes an appeal to logos (logic)
• Rephrase your thesis
• Leave your audience with a call to action, or something to think about (this could be a question, or a parting thought

How Many Words Should a Rhetorical Analysis Be?

There’s no strict rule for how many words your rhetorical analysis should be, although you might be given specific guidelines by your instructor.

In general, however, these essays aren’t very long, ranging anywhere from 500–1,000 words. The important thing is that your analysis is complete and you adequately support your thesis.

Analyzing Rhetoric

Analyzing rhetoric is one way to evaluate the work of other writers and creators, and it can also show you new strategies for making your own arguments more effectively.

Next time you read an article or listen to a speech, don’t just pay attention to what the author or speaker says, but how they say it. This is an important step in critical thinking that will help you to draw your own conclusions and evaluate different forms of media more critically.

Did you find this post helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

• How to Write a Literary Analysis: 6 Tips for the Perfect Essay
• How to Write a Reflection Paper in 5 Steps (plus Template and Sample Essay)
• What Is Rhetoric? Definitions and Examples to Make Your Writing More Effective
• 17 of the Most Common Literary Devices Every Reader and Writer Should Know

As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! This was so helpful, and I have been anxious about this paper I must write. I just could not figure out how to get started or which way I should put it in order. Your guidelines and suggestions have really eased my mind. If I did not say it before, THANK YOU!

I have taken a few years of English and comp classes, but this article helped me more than any of those! Breaking it down helped me immensely. Thank you!!

Ms. Barron, thank you so much for your post, which is clearly written, comprehensive, and succinct. I am a teacher, and I thought that I would introduce students to rhetorical analysis by asking them (actually we will write together) to write a rhetorical analysis of the Pledge of Allegiance. Your post provides an EXCELLENT overview of the process and (different) parts. We will just write a one-page-paragraph, to begin. Thank you, again.

Thank you Ronald, I am so happy to hear that you found the post helpful for your class! :)

Kaelyn, thank you for your post. I am given a book to write the Rhetorical analysis. I hope your guidelines will serve the purpose. God bless you. Prayers.

I hope you found the post helpful for writing your rhetorical analysis! :)

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay

How To Write A Rhetorical Analysis Essay That Stands Out

17 min read

Published on: Jul 17, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

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Are you struggling to write a compelling rhetorical analysis essay that captures your readers' attention?

Don't worry, you're not alone! 

Crafting an effective analysis requires a deep understanding of rhetorical devices and techniques.

In this comprehensive guide, we will equip you with the essential knowledge of writing impactful rhetorical analysis essays.

By following our step-by-step approach you'll gain the skills needed to analyse texts, engage your audience, and leave a lasting impression.

Let's dive into the world of rhetorical analysis essays and embark on a transformative writing journey!

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What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

Rhetorical analysis is a type of college essay in which the writer conducts a deep analysis of an object. 

In this type of analysis, the object of analysis is mostly some kind of book, a movie, or any other type of creative work. 

When it comes to rhetorical analysis, a writer picks a particular subject and analyzes its effects on the surroundings and the target audience. 

It is important to mention that rhetorical analysis can be done on nearly anything that comes to your mind. Be it a billboard, a logo, a motto, or anything else you can think of.  

What are the Five Rhetorical Situations?

The concept of the rhetorical situation is an essential aspect of rhetorical analysis. The following are the five rhetorical situations that you need to consider when analyzing a text:

• Audience : The audience refers to the individuals who receive the message. Understanding the audience's characteristics, values, and expectations is crucial in crafting persuasive communication that resonates with them.
• Purpose : The purpose is the reason why the communication is created. It could be to inform, entertain, persuade, or educate the audience.
• Speaker : The speaker is the person who creates or delivers the communication. The speaker's characteristics, such as their credibility, expertise, and reputation, play a significant role in how the audience perceives and responds to the message.
• Occasion : The occasion is the event or situation that prompts the creation of the communication. The occasion may affect the tone, language, and overall message of the communication.
• Context : The context is the broader environment that shapes the communication, including the cultural, social, political, and historical factors. Understanding the context helps you analyze how the message relates to larger societal issues and trends.

What are the Three Rhetorical Analysis Strategies?

There are three main methods of persuasion: ethos, pathos, and logos. To be successful in persuading someone, you need to understand how to use each of these methods.

• Ethos (Credibility)

Ethos focuses on the credibility and authority of the speaker or author. It involves evaluating their expertise, knowledge, experience, and reputation. By examining the speaker's ethos, you can assess how their credibility influences the audience's perception of the message. 

Look for elements such as professional qualifications, personal anecdotes, or references to establish ethos.

• Pathos (Emotional Appeal)

Pathos involves appealing to the emotions and values of the audience. This strategy aims to evoke specific emotions, such as empathy, fear, joy, or anger, to create a connection with the audience. Analyze the use of vivid language, storytelling, imagery, personal anecdotes, or appeals to shared values and beliefs. 

Consider how these emotional appeals impact the audience's engagement and response.

• Logos (Logical Reasoning)

Logos centers on logical reasoning and appeals to the audience's rationality and critical thinking. It involves analyzing the use of evidence, statistics, logical arguments, facts, and logical structures within the text. 

Assess how the author or speaker supports their claims, presents a logical progression of ideas, and uses reasoning to persuade the audience.

Check out this blog on ethos, pathos, logos for dig deeper into these rhetorical strategies!

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Structure

Below is a rhetorical analysis essay structure for your help.

How To Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay may seem challenging at first, but with a systematic approach, you can effectively analyze and interpret a piece of rhetoric. 

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you craft a successful rhetorical analysis essay.

Analyzing The Text

Before you directly hop on to write your rhetorical analysis essay, make sure that you follow some prewriting steps. These steps will make essay writing easy and less time-consuming. 

Some simple pre-writing steps of such an essay are as follows:

• Identify your Target Audience 

Identifying the audience is the most important factor for an essay. Identifying the audience allows the writer to write the essay according to the intellectual level of the intended audience. 

If a writer writes the essay without knowing the audience, all the effort will go in vain as the audience will not understand the essay's purpose. 

• The Subject of the Essay  

Another important thing about a rhetorical analysis essay is identifying and analyzing the chosen subject’s underlying meaning. A writer of this essay type should understand that message and explain it in a few words. 

• Define Purpose 

Defining the purpose of the rhetorical analysis essay provides logic to the reader for the essay. The writer explains the reason behind the composition and what made them choose a particular topic for an essay. 

• Mention the Occasion

The occasion refers to the work and its setting. When analyzing the occasion, two approaches are used, i.e., micro view and macro view. Both these views are used to explain where the occasion took place. 

• Identify the SOAPSTone

The SOAPSTone of a text includes its Speaker, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Subject, and Tone. Further elaboration of SOAPSTone is as follows: 

• Speaker: The speaker basically refers to the first and last name of the writer. 
• Occasion: The occasion mostly refers to the type of text and the context under which the text was written.
• Audience: The audience is who the text was written for. 
• Purpose: The purpose refers to what the writer wants to accomplish in the text. 
• Subject: The subject is simply the topic the writer discusses in the text.

These were some basic pre-writing steps for a rhetorical analysis essay. Let’s move forward and see what steps we need to follow to write a good rhetorical analysis essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

An outline is an essential part of essay writing. It serves as a guide for the reader throughout the essay. 

All the information you have gathered so far needs to be organized. A rhetorical analysis outline can help you in this regard. 

A rhetorical analysis essay uses the typical 5-paragraph outline. It has the following elements:

• Introduction 
• Body Paragraphs
• Conclusion 

Let us see what elements are added in these five parts of a rhetorical analysis essay. 

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Introduction

The introduction is the first part of an essay. This part of the essay must be made as attractive as possible. 

The reader can perceive the whole idea of the essay by just reading the introduction. This is why this part should be interesting, as well as expressive. 

Essay introduction usually starts with a hook sentence. The hook sentence is an attention-grabbing sentence that can be a quotation, fact, or even a question. 

The most important part of the essay, the thesis statement, is stated in this part. It is stated somewhere before the last sentence of the introduction.  

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs are the scene element in an outline and come after the introductory paragraph. 

In these paragraphs, the writer elaborates on the key elements in detail. Usually, there are three body paragraphs in this type of academic essay. 

Each body paragraph is written to explain a key element. All the facts and evidence the writer has collected for that point are also mentioned in that paragraph. 

Keep in mind a topic sentence is used to start a paragraph. This sentence is just like a short introduction to the body paragraph. It gives the reader an idea about the element that will be discussed in the following paragraph. 

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Conclusion 

After all the information is mentioned in the body paragraphs, the reader expects to see how you represent your final analysis. The writer is supposed to give the final verdict in the last part, which is the conclusion. 

The conclusion is the shortest but the most technical part of an essay. In this part, the entire essay is summarized in such a way that all the key elements are once again revised. 

Also, the thesis statement is reiterated but uses more convincing words. 

In a rhetorical analysis essay conclusion, it should be mentioned how the main argument is proved right. The writer also presents the impact of the author’s work on the audience in the past paragraph.

Make sure to look at the example below for more information.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Sample (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Examples

To gain a better understanding of how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, it can be helpful to examine some examples. Here are a few notable examples that showcase the application of rhetorical analysis techniques:

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example (PDF)

A visual rhetorical analysis essay document communicates primarily through images or the interaction of image and text. 

Here is an example of such an essay.

Visual Rhetorical Essay Example (PDF)

H3- Rh etorical Analysis Essay Example: AP Language 

Rhetorical analysis done in AP Language and Composition is one of the biggest tasks a student can ever get. There are some specific tips that you need to follow for this purpose. Those major tips are mentioned below: 

• Understand the Prompt

It is a must for this type of essay to understand the prompt to know what the task demands from you.

• Stick to the Format

The content for the rhetorical analysis should be properly organized and structured. The rhetorical analysis essay outline divides all the information into different sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion. 

Look at the example given below and see how a well-written rhetorical analysis essay is written for AP language. 

AP Rhetorical Analysis Essay (PDF)

Letter from Birmingham Jail Rhetorical Analysis Essay (PDF)

AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay Rubric (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Format (PDF)

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example High School (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Writing an essay is easy, but finding a good topic to compose an essay on is the real deal. Similarly, writing a rhetorical analysis essay becomes very easy when a writer has a good topic in hand. 

Here we have summed up some very good rhetorical analysis essay topics. One of them might help you to compose an impressive rhetorical analysis essay. 

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• “I Am Prepared to Die” by Nelson Mandela 
• Nobel Peace Prize Speech by Malala Yousafzai
• The Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln
• “Full Power of Women” by Priyanka Chopra 
• Emma Watson’s speech on the Power of Women
• “Integrity” speech by Warren Buffet
• Freedom Speech from Braveheart
• Ending Scene from The Breakfast Club 
• Maximus’ Speech to Commodus from Gladiator
• Oprah’s 2018 Golden Globes speech 

High School Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• Rhetorical Analysis of “The Olympic Games”
• “NFL And the Concussion Rules”
• BCS or Playoffs
• AAU or NBA; which team has more fan following?
• Rhetorical Analysis of “Football World Cup”
• Kobe Bryant or LeBron
• Rhetorical Analysis of Presidential Sports Encomia
• Rhetorical Analysis of Symbolic Power of Sports
• The communication between the players and a coach.
• Rhetorical Analysis of the use of steroids

College Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

• Importance of theme of hope in literature
• The fact does not support the rhetorical questions.
• A streetcar named desire.
• Conduct a rhetorical analysis of the Bible
• The key allegories are used in Daddy by Sylvia Plath.
• The absurdity of the Afterlife
• Do we laugh when someone tickles us?
• The year of magical thinking
• Rhetorical analysis of James Joyce’s Ulysses
• Analyze a piece of work from the Parks library

Tips to Write an Effective Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Writing a strong rhetorical analysis essay requires careful analysis, persuasive writing skills, and attention to detail. 

Here are five tips to help you write an effective essay:

• Analyze the Rhetorical Situation

Before diving into the analysis, thoroughly understand the rhetorical situation. Consider the author, audience, purpose, and context of the text. This understanding will shape your analysis and help you identify the most relevant rhetorical devices.

• Focus on Key Rhetorical Devices

Identify and analyze the key rhetorical devices used in the text. Look for devices such as ethos, logos, pathos, rhetorical questions, metaphors, and analogies. Discuss how these devices contribute to the author's persuasive techniques and the overall effectiveness of the text.

• Provide Strong Evidence

Back up your analysis with strong evidence from the text. Quote specific passages, examples, or statistics to support your claims. Ensure that your evidence directly relates to the rhetorical devices and strategies you are discussing.

• Consider the Impact on the Audience

Evaluate how the rhetorical devices and strategies used in the text affect the target audience. Discuss the emotional, logical, and ethical appeals created by these devices and their potential influence on the readers or listeners.

• Structure and Coherence

Organize your essay in a logical and coherent manner. Use a clear introduction that provides context and presents your thesis statement. Develop body paragraphs that focus on specific rhetorical devices, supporting your analysis with evidence. 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid While Writing a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay requires careful attention to detail and critical thinking. To ensure a successful essay, be mindful of these common pitfalls and avoid them:

• Summarizing Instead of Analyzing

One of the main pitfalls is falling into the trap of summarizing the text instead of analyzing it. Remember that your task is to dissect the rhetorical devices and strategies used by the author, not simply summarize the content of the text.

• Neglecting the Rhetorical Context

Failing to consider the rhetorical context of the text can weaken your analysis. Always take into account the author's purpose, intended audience, and the social, historical, or cultural context in which the text was produced. 

• Lack of Focus

Stay focused on the main argument or thesis of your essay. Avoid going off on tangents or including irrelevant information. Every point you make should directly support your thesis and contribute to the overall analysis.

• Insufficient Evidence and Examples

To strengthen your analysis, provide ample evidence and examples from the text. Merely stating your interpretation is not enough; you need to back it up with specific quotes, examples, or references. 

Overgeneralizing or Oversimplifying

Be cautious of overgeneralizing or oversimplifying the author's intent or the impact of rhetorical devices. Avoid making broad statements without proper evidence or disregarding the complexity of the text.

• Lack of Structure and Coherence

A poorly structured essay can undermine the effectiveness of your analysis. Ensure that your essay has a clear introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. 

• Neglecting Revision and Proofreading

Failing to revise and proofread your essay can lead to errors and inconsistencies. Take the time to review your essay, checking for grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. 

In conclusion, mastering the art of writing a rhetorical analysis essay can open doors to a deeper understanding of persuasive communication.

By following the outlined structure and incorporating the provided tips, you can confidently navigate the process and produce a compelling essay.

Now that you have a solid understanding of rhetorical analysis, it's time to put your knowledge into practice. 

If you need assistance with your college essays or any other academic writing, consider trying our AI writing tool . 

Our writing service consists of experienced writers who can provide professional essay help .

Visit our rhetorical analysis essay writing service today and take the first step towards academic success. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the elements of a rhetorical analysis.

The main elements of a rhetorical analysis essay are: 

• Situation 
• Audience  
• Purpose 
• Medium 
• Context 

How do you end a rhetorical analysis essay?

Here are some ways that help you to end the rhetorical analysis essay. 

• Summarize the entire essay. 
• Restate the thesis statement. 
• Focus on the main ideas. 

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Are you having trouble thinking of rhetorical analysis topics to explore? Selecting a title for such an essay is an excellent place to start. Afterward, proceed to introduction, body, and then conclusion. In this section, we have compiled a short list of greatest topics for rhetorical analysis to help you improve your grades. Through the catalog, you will discover how to create best topics for rhetorical analysis essay about a worthwhile issue. Need professional essay help online ? Visit StudyCrumb! Simply share your instructions and get your rhetorical analysis or any other essay completed by a pro.

What Are Rhetorical Analysis Topics?

Rhetorical analysis essay topics refer to the subject matter in which researchers examine how different parts of a work produce a specific effect on the reader. They then develop an argument and find compelling evidence to support their opinion. Such topics focus on a particular work of literature, discourse, or art. Unlike a literary analysis ,  rhetorical analysis paper topics are intended to analyze works from a rhetorical standpoint. Thus, the tricks used to convince readers are assessed. Rhetorical analysis ideas and topics are designed to evaluate students' reasoning ability for close attention to detail. Given this, you should dissect literary work into its elements and assess the author's effective strategies.

Characteristics of Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Pick a subject that interests you when selecting topics for analysis. Additionally, it requires adequate information to be used in research. What are good rhetorical analysis topics ? This is one of the questions that students keep asking themselves. Below is a listing of characteristics of good topics for rhetorical analysis. The subject matter must consider the scenario's target audience, goal, and background.

• It should be broad with plenty of information.
• A good topic ought to be fascinating. That is to say, it should capture reader’s attention.
• It must also give an excellent choice for research.

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Topic?

An exciting rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first element in any writing that aims to pique the reader's curiosity. All writers strive to ensure their work is professional and appealing to the audience. Furthermore, the titles must be engaging to make your essay solid. Since finding subjects that are compelling and fascinating might be problematic, here are some tips to keep in mind when deciding on good rhetorical analysis essay topics.

• Pick a subject that appeals to you. Before composing an analysis paper, choose a topic that interests you. Moreover, make sure there is room for research.
• Consider your understanding of the topic. Selecting familiar rhetorical essay topics will be helpful in your writing. Remember to reveal your understanding of the author's writing technique when conducting the review.
• Carry out background research. Make a list of subjects that catch your attention. After that, whittle down the selection and choose an ideal topic. You can achieve this by investigating the information that is already accessible on it.
• Seek help from your instructor. Ask your lecturer for assistance if you are still unsure of the subject. Compile a list of appropriate rhetorical analysis topics to make it easy for the educator.

Best Rhetorical Analysis Topics List

The best rhetorical analysis topics are pertinent to tasks and have sufficient information for use. When handling these essays, choose an engaging subject to make the assignment more doable. Topics for study are not limited to speeches from notable presidents or popular poems. Investigate these interesting rhetorical analysis essay ideas related to cinema, artwork, prompt, and current affairs.

• Justification of vengeance in The Odyssey .
• The meaning underlying Mona Lisa’s smile.
• Literary techniques used in The Chronicles of Narnia .
• The primary theme in Winston Churchill's We Shall Fight on the Beaches .
• How stylistic tactics affect a reader's impression of non-fiction material.
• Purpose of literary devices in Oscar Wilde 's works.
• How a creative topic and storyline might make a blockbuster.
• What was the main point in president Trump's speech?
• How to tell if a play uses the right rhetorical tactics.
• What prevents speeches from garnering bigger crowds?

Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Perhaps you are seeking good topics to write rhetorical analysis on for your academic article. Good topics for rhetorical analysis essay are listed here.

• How the use of casual and formal language influences speech.
• Different rhetorical techniques used by Classical and Rogerian authors.
• How preconceptions might limit successful application of rhetorical techniques.
• Significance of abstract images within classical literature.
• How literary works communicate information via words, expressions, and concepts.
• Slavery, as discussed in Beloved by Toni Morrison.
• What do Pepsi's logo colors symbolize?
• How President Joe Biden utilized alliteration in his speech on democracy.
• Linguistic trends in William Shakespeare's publications.
• How former president Barack Obama applied logos, pathos, and ethos in his farewell speech.
• A comprehensive rhetorical analysis of The Odyssey .
• How to use stylistic techniques in a way that can foresee the audience's response.
• Visual components of Hollywood filmmaking.
• A criticism of the hyperbole of how innovation has affected culture.
• Analysis of president Joe Biden's speech on democracy.

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Easy Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Do you wish to focus on easy rhetorical analysis topics? If so, you will discover some of the most effective suggestions in this paragraph. These subjects are easy to write about since information is readily available on the web. Nevertheless, you must be prepared to devote time and resources to studying and composing your easy rhetorical analysis essay topics.

• How the American national anthem employs literary techniques.
• TED's presentations and how they embrace rhetorical devices to entice viewers.
• How writers approach themes of ethnicity and discrimination in their writing.
• Differences between employment of stylistic elements in historical and contemporary cultures.
• How linguistic strategies are used in religious books.
• The difficulty of captivating an audience to a monologue.
• Various rhetorical strategies that media presenters employ.
• How can rhetorical depth of any discourse be identified?
• How various authors handle heroism topics when it comes to their writing.
• The significance of symbolism with regards to literature.
• How Michael Scott applies rhetorical techniques.
• R&B songwriting strategies.
• Advertiser-selected terminologies on billboards and posters.
• Creative methods used in the renowned portrait of Mona Lisa .
• Rhetoric elements used in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Excellent Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

If you wish to focus on excellent rhetorical essay topics, below are a few you can select from. You only need to decide which rhetorical topics for essays to use.

• How successful was Barack Obama’s speech during his presidency?
• Use of stylistic devices in Nike’s Just Do It ad.
• How does education stifle creative thinking?
• A speech or piece that uses oratorical tactics.
• How authors characterize heroism.
• Rhetorical analysis of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
• The effect of rhetorical techniques on reader’s comprehension of a non-fiction story.
• Brand identity and emotional appeal of Monster drink.
• Impact of President Trump's tweets.
• Literary devices utilized in eulogy speeches.
• Relationship between racial discrimination and sexism in America.
• Pepsi's marketing ideas.
• A billboard that got your attention.
• A rhetorical review of President Trump's tweets.

Did you spot a fitting topic? Now it’s time to see how to write a rhetorical analysis essay . 

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Visual rhetorical analysis topic ideas might help readers recollect your paper. Consider the author's objective and demographics of the intended audience, as it will aid you in conducting complete research. The visual rhetoric essay topics suggestions below can help you achieve that aim.

• Effects of soundtracks on movies.
• Newspaper covers using rhetoric aspects.
• How innovative advertising employs symbols.
• Rhetorical evaluation of exhibits in art galleries.
• How slow motion affects films.
• Use of symbolism in Avatar .
• William Shakespeare's best poems.
• How Black Panther utilizes symbolism.
• Use of arts in The Square .
• How TV commercials employ texts.
• Author's utilization of personification in Bluebird by Charles Bukowski.
• Usage of audio, music, and narrative in presentations.
• How does John Curran utilize imagery in The Painted Veil .
• Ways in which Michael Lewis uses cinematography and soundtracks in The Blind Side .
• How Jurassic Park transformed special effects.

Need more rhetorical topics? Give our Essay Title Creator a shot!

Controversial Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

If you consider debate intriguing, this part includes the best suggestions for rhetorical topics for essay. When composing scholarly articles, these rhetorical analysis topics are outstanding. Just do some research on the piece carefully and comprehend the debate.

• Use of stereotypes and racial tropes in films.
• Representation of science and technology in science fiction.
• Religion and spirituality in Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life.
• The portrayal of mental health issues in popular culture.
• Violence and its impact on society in Avatar.
• Propaganda in the Triumph of the Will .
• The Notebook and its illustration of love and friendships.
• Schindler’s List and how it explains the Holocaust.
• Dark humor as used in Catch-22 .
• Police brutality and racial injustice in Copwatch .
• Immigration and border control in A Better Life .
• Rhetorical techniques affect how a reader interprets a non-fiction story.
• Plot twist in The Titanic .
• Is there something about William Shakespeare's writing style that really appeals to you?
• How does the audience's impression of the story be affected by the author's credibility?

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Ideas for Students

The success of all academic writing depends on utilizing rhetorical analysis ideas efficiently. This is because the foundation of everything undertaken within schools is to influence thought patterns through speech application. Since language is typically hypnotic, it aims to educate. It is uncommon for students to avoid writing research papers on rhetorical analysis, as they appear as projects, articles, and term papers. Here are a few essay propositions for high school and university learners.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

Topics for a rhetorical analysis essay are many. If you are a secondary school student having problems deciding on rhetorical analysis topics to select from, you are in the right place. Here are 15 essay topics for high school.

• Use of metaphor in a speech from your school director on graduation day.
• Main themes used in Alice in Wonderland .
• Rhetorical devices used in The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin .
• How Arthur Miller uses foreshadowing in Death of a Salesman .
• Literary elements used in An Enemy of the People .
• Central concepts within William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
• Theme of social class in The Canterbury Tales .
• Power of tradition as illustrated in The Lottery.
• Fundamental concepts of Jordan Peele's Get Out .
• Literary elements used in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.
• How Virginia Woolf utilizes the stream-of-consciousness tactic in The Waves .
• How analogy is used in the inauguration speech of my math teacher.
• Guilt and justice as discussed in And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie.
• Synopsis of The Godfather by Francis Ford Coppola.
• Major theme in Gone With The Wind .

 Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students

College students can choose from a wide range of rhetoric research paper topics. They will greatly gain from these analysis paper ideas in the last year of school. Below are essential topics that college learners can select for their essays.

• How solitude is demonstrated within works of literature.
• Poetic devices in performances and poems.
• How does rhetoric function in websites and other digital writing?
• Methods that can be used to evaluate a scene from a popular film.
• Main themes in The Matrix .
• Strength of speech writing in Barack Obama's speeches.
• Michael Scott's primary writing techniques.
• A movie that had a massive impact on your life.
• A significant political discourse that is still discussed today.
• How Rick Bragg uses comedy in his article The Guiltless Pleasure .
• What justifications does David Grann make in The Mark of a Masterpiece ?
• Stylistic devices used in The Crucible by Arthur Miller.
• How using literary techniques has been streamlined thanks to technology.
• What elements are commonly found in acceptance speeches?
• How evangelists utilize rhetoric to engage their audiences.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics in Different Fields

There are many distinct and good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on. It is improbable that one could ever run out of ideas for them when writing any paper. Aside from the topics mentioned above, numerous other fields, for instance, speeches and fiction work, can be explored. Arts are the primary focus of the bulk of these rhetorical subjects. In addition, there are many resources to choose your topics for rhetorical analysis. This section provides examples of other fields that can be traversed.

Rhetorical Analysis Speech Topics

There have been many famous speeches throughout history. To analyze one, you need to consider different aspects of rhetoric topics. For example, the speaker's goals, the speech's historical text, and viewer's aspirations. Here are a handful of topics that can be explored for rhetorical analysis of a speech .

• Quit India speech by Mahatma Gandhi.
• How President Donald Trump utilized personification in his final speech.
• Figures of speech that Richard Nixon employed in his resignation speech.
• President Biden 's remarks on transgender issues.
• Malala Yousafzai's acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize.
• Dark and vengeful undertones in William Blake's A Poison Tree .
• How to get people to pay attention to Franklin Roosevelt's inaugural speech.
• The majority of TED speeches use rhetorical tactics.
• Literary devices used within the speech from Finding Forrester .
• Discursive strategies used in Jack Ma's inspiring speech.
• Tones used in Theodore Roosevelt's Duties of American citizenship .
• Rhetorical devices utilized in JF. Kennedy's inauguration speech.
• What were the goals of Ronald Reagan's Speech in Address to the Nation on the Challenger ?
• Oprah's appraisal of Golden Globes' discourse.
• How does Sam Bern’s outlook on life affect his ability to communicate in My Philosophy for a Happy Life ?

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas on Movies

Do you enjoy watching movies? Has your teacher given you freedom to select them as one of the rhetorical analysis essay ideas? If yes, you can look into some of the points on this list, which provide rhetorical analysis article ideas. In certain films, an individual makes a speech that everybody remembers. Whatever the case, taking observations is necessary for performing rhetorical assessment of movies discourse.

• Black Panther’s application of literary devices.
• How the film's author employs a rhetorical tactic in How To Train Your Dragon .
• Salvatore Corsitta's remarks from The Godfather .
• Use of imagery by Zack Snyder.
• The Hunger Games’ use of figurative language.
• Rhetorical devices used in Pursuit of Happiness .
• Theme of hope in The Ultimate Gift .
• The movie Get Out racial theme.
• Moral standards as depicted in Gone Baby Gone .
• How racism led to different issues in A Soldier's Story .
• Concept of posttraumatic stress disorder as illustrated in Fearless movie .
• Lessons from Life of a King movie.
• Ethical behaviors as encapsulated by Charles Ferguson.
• Main themes of Mind, Body, and Soul .
• Power theme in My Kingdom .

Poetry Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

A plethora of topics to write a rhetorical analysis on is available online, and poem is among the unique subjects that can be explored. To analyze poetry, you need to consider the speaker, rhyme’s meaning, and structure. The following are distinct rhetorical analysis paper topics that students can use.

• Primary metaphors used by Sylvia Plath .
• Theme of rage and evil in A Poison Tree .
• Primary rhetorical strategies employed by W.H.Auden.
• How personification is used in Bluebird.
• Concept of nature in Mary Oliver's Fall .
• Function of contrast in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings .
• Role of street jargon as illustrated by Langstone Hughes.
• Stylistic elements used by Jane Kenyon.
• Poetic devices used in Disillusionment of Ten O'clock .
• Primary theme in Love Song .
• How the author employed poetic devices in Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night .
• Self-acceptance as illustrated in Phenomenal Woman .
• Characteristics of the speaker as explained by Claude McKay.
• Illustration of love in A Red, Red Rose .
• Artistic devices used by William Shakespeare in Venus and Adonis .

Literature Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Are you searching for rhetorical analysis essay topics that will make your instructor smile? If that is the case, here are some fantastic ideas for rhetorical analysis.

• Early literature from the 17th century.
• Faith and religion in the Quran.
• How to tell if a drama employs correct figures of speech.
• An in-depth review of rhetorical tactics used in France and Europe.
• Techniques used in Michelle Obama's Our Diversity Makes Us Who We Are .
• Literary tactics used by Melania Trump in her farewell address as the first lady.
• Textual analysis of A Lover's Complaint by William Shakespeare.
• Theme of misogyny in Hamlet .
• Central message in Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.
• Impact of heroes' personal lives on the society in Oedipus and contemporary America.
• Myth's influence on culture as explained in Adam and Eve’s story.
• Metaphors used in the legendary speech made by Martin Luther.
• What figurative language stands out in The Pearl Harbor Address ?
• Humanity vs. Nature in Their Eyes Were Watching God .
• Justice in Scott Fitzgerald's Great Gatsby .

Rhetorical Analysis Topics on Fiction

Like all rhetorical topics, fiction has a point it wants to convey. You might consider how you reacted to the fiction content as a reader. Therefore, if you enjoy reading or watching fictional characters, feel free to choose any rhetorical analysis essay topic below.

• One Hundred Years of Solitude's elitist theme.
• Central themes in Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer .
• How The Alchemist presents character growth.
• How Erin Morgenstern created varied personalities in The Night Circus .
• Behavior as illustrated by Jesse Stuart.
• How Code Name Verity delivers its message of friendship.
• Depiction of war in Men At Arms .
• Significance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
• How relevant is Macbeth in the modern era?
• What linguistic techniques does Ayn Rand use?
• What distinguishes A Room of One's Own from other books?
• Major themes in To Kill a Mockingbird.
• Mysterious language as used by Beatriz Williams.
• How The Lord of the Flies explores conflict between civilization and barbarism.
• Writing styles used in The Midnight Library .

Non-Fictional Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Non-fiction works are those that are fact-based. When analyzing them, examine the environmental components surrounding rhetorical analysis paper topics. If you enjoy non-fictional topics for a rhetorical analysis, consider using these ideas.

• Rhetorical techniques in Cold Blood .
• What was the plot in Charlie Chaplin's speech from The Great Dictator ?
• Use of allegory in Avengers: Endgame .
• Traveling Mercies ' rhetoric techniques.
• How Someday Maybe utilizes personification.
• Theme of racism in Absolute Beginners .
• How Ron Chernow explores the concept of triumph in Alexander Hamilton .
• Stylistic elements in Out of Africa .
• John Hersey's linguistic interpretation of the suffering in Hiroshima .
• Themes explored in the Sermons .
• Religious beliefs according to The Ethics of Belief by William Kingdom.
• How Mohsin Hamid explores themes of love and turmoil in Exit West .
• Stylistic techniques in A Brief History of Time .
• What motivates bibliophiles to read Beloved?
• Theme of fanaticism in Fever Pitch .

Rhetorical Analysis Topics About Advertisements

The main goal of any advertisement is to convince the audience. Therefore, a successful campaign forges a bond between the client and the product. When exploring rhetorical analysis essay topics, consider the general appeal of the advertisement. Additionally, take into account the target audience and rhetorical techniques. You can choose rhetorical analysis topic ideas from this list.

• Examples of innovative and powerful advertising.
• BluBlocker Sunglasses marketing campaign.
• Advertising's ability to reach a particular audience.
• Impact of advertising on brand recognition.
• Effectiveness of Coca-Cola’s share a coke advertisements of 2018.
• Central idea behind Red Bull's Giving Life to the Night ad.
• How effective is Apple's Think Different ad.
• Was Toyota Moving Forward campaign a success?
• Success behind Disney's The happiest place on Earth tagline.
• How does Samsung advertise products?
• How are rhetorical tactics used in television advertising?
• Effectiveness of Pepsi's video campaigns.
• Use of logos, ethos, and pathos in MacBook commercials.
• How do advertisers choose the language that appears on billboards and posters?
• History of Fanta's effective utilization of advertising.

>> Read more: Marketing Topics for Research

Bottom Line on Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Many of you ask a common question: "what is a good topic for a rhetorical analysis essay?" Feel inclined to utilize any rhetorical analysis topics highlighted in this blog article to write a top-notch essay.   Hopefully, you have found a suitable topic. Feel free to browse our blog for more analytical essay topics and writing tips. From process analysis essay topics to critical analysis essay writing suggestions, we have a bunch of useful guides for students. 

If you need assistance with rhetorical analysis article topics or have no idea how to create such essays, get in touch with us. We have a group of qualified academic scholars who can provide essay writing assistance on top subjects for rhetorical analysis papers.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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227 Rhetoric Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best rhetoric topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on rhetoric, 🔎 simple & easy rhetoric essay titles, 💡 interesting topics to write about rhetoric, ✍️ rhetoric essay topics for college, ❓ questions about rhetoric.

• Steve Jobs Commencement Speech Analysis In his speech, Jobs demonstrates the virtuous use of the rhetoric appeals in the development and presentation of one of the most persuasive commencement speeches in order to draw the students’ attention to the significant […]
• A Rhetorical Analysis of the Titanic Film The close-up shots used in the scene add to the emotional effect of the scene and create a sense of intimacy between the audience and characters, making the intended viewers experience the scene as if […]
• Crest Toothpaste Advertisement’s Rhetorical Analysis The purpose of the advertisement is to increase the popularity of the brand’s anti-cavity toothpaste. Throughout the text, Crest Cool Mint Gel is referred to as the product recommended by the majority of professional dentists, […]
• “Come September” by Arundhati Roy: Rhetorical Analysis The author admits that she is going to read her speech out loud and stresses the two reasons for reading: first, she is a writer and she feels more comfortable when she writes and not […]
• “Letter From Birmingham Jail” Rhetorical Analysis Essay He supports his argument in the next paragraph, where he puts it across that they have been governed by a combination of unjust and just law whereby there is a need to separate the two.
• Rhetoric and Propaganda: How Far Is Rhetoric From Propaganda? In order to understand the essence of the two terms, it is important to consider the available definitions and meanings assigned to rhetoric and propaganda in the modern world.
• Rhetoric of “The ‘Other Side’ Is Not Dumb” by Blanda The author uses rhetorical approaches to increase the engagement of the reader with the text. In the “The ‘Other Side’ Is Not Dumb” article, the author effectively uses various rhetorical techniques to grab the reader’s […]
• Rhetoric of The Declaration of Independence Other than appealing to ethics, Jefferson and the founding fathers required the audience to have an emotional attachment to the Declaration of Independence.
• ’A More Perfect Union’ Barack Obama Rhetorical Analysis In his speech, Obama is very conscious and aware of his audience. The message contained in his speech is that of peace and unity.
• Classical and Modern Rhetoric On the other hand, modern rhetoric is the contemporary form of rhetoric that exists to reexamine provisions of classical rhetoric providing a more cooperative form of communication between a speaker and his/her audience.
• “Angela’s Ashes” by Frank McCourt: Rhetorical Devices The principal purpose of the deployment of metaphors and figurative language in the work of literature is to emphasize the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences.
• Rhetorical Analysis of an Essay by Matt de la Peña In Sometimes the “Tough Teen” Is Quietly Writing Stories, Matt de la Pe a presents his personal experiences that shaped his purpose in life and in the essay.
• Importance of Self-Care: Rhetoric and Persuasion Taking care of oneself and taking care of health is a serious way to maintain well-being. And therefore, it is more important for one’s well-being not to read the news but to devote time to […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of an Image The audience of this cartoon is difficult to define, because it can include every person who is interested in the political, social, and economic life of the country.
• Aristotle’s and Plato’s Views on Rhetoric One of the points that Plato expresses in this philosophical work is that rhetoric should be viewed primarily as the “artificer of persuasion”. This is one of the similarities that can be distinguished.
• Rhetorical Analysis of Patricia Ryan’s Speech “Don’t Insist on English” The main idea Patricia Ryan’s wants to deliver to the audience in her speech is that the globalization of English language does not give an opportunity for English-speaking countries to notice the entire knowledge of […]
• The Rhetorical Devices of George Orwell This essay discusses the rhetoric devices George Orwell uses to convince the audience of the credibility of his arguments regarding the ambiguity of political language.
• Rhetorical Analysis of “On Being a Cripple” by Mairs Mairs delineates her areas of expertise throughout the essay and indicates that she has the required background in the topic at hand to develop ethos.
• Rhetoric: “The Morality of Birth Control” by Margaret Sanger In her speech, Sanger supports the argument that the American women should have the right to learn more about the birth control because of their responsibility for the personal health and happiness in contrast to […]
• Rhetoric in “This Boat Is My Boat” Article by Taylor The author uses this anecdote to illustrate the visitors’ pollution and willingness to exert themselves in an activity that ultimately would result in their demise.”Means of transportation and survival” of the Natives should not be […]
• Rhetoric: “Millennials: The Me Me Me Generation” Lastly, the author of the article chose to include rhetorical questions as one of the strategies. Later in the article, the author makes a hasty generalization about the modern workforce adapting to millennials.
• “The Myth of Multitasking” by Rosen: Rhetorical Analysis By the end of the article, Rosen persuades the reader that the benefits of multitasking are overrated and that human brains are wired to focus on one single task.
• Rhetorical Theory: Ideological Criticism These include cultural studies, which of course helps in identifying the changes that take place to the meaning and application of various ideographs. These transitions also lead to changing meaning and application of the ideographs.
• The Film “Soul” by Pixar: Understanding Plato’s Rhetoric Plato believes that the function of the soul in the conception of noble rhetoric is the ability of the orator to understand other people and execute the art of rhetoric.
• Stick and Stones and Sports Team Names: Rhetorical Analysis The author constantly relies on the emotional appeal to the readers throughout the development of the whole argument. In addition, using pathos is often characterized as a common fallacy, and in Estrada’s argument, appeal to […]
• Rhetoric vs. Dialectic: Finding Differences It is more honest and flexible than a mere defending of some point of view that a person can even not share.
• Targeted Rhetoric: The Advertisements of Coca-Cola To familiarize the audience with the examples of the application of the rhetorical strategies and visual argument in advertising, let us resort to one of the classical cases of successful advertising the advertisements of Coca-Cola.
• Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death: Rhetoric Appeals in Patrick Henry The use of rhetoric appeals to strengthen the message is a common instrument for many orators, and Patrick Henry is no exception to the rule.
• Rhetoric: Chief Seattle’s Enviromental Statement The repetition is used in this speech to emphasize the major themes that Chief Seattle uses to draw the listener’s attention: the sacredness of the earth, the difference between the white man and the Indian, […]
• Rhetoric Analysis of Nike’s Advert The use of ethos and pathos in this advert mainly brings a new scope to the game and creates a new dimension for women.
• Burke’s Pentad: Public Relations, Social Theory, and Rhetoric On the example of one of Jeff Wall’s photographs, it is illustrated how the motivation of an actor in this paradigm can be described in different ways in terms of the viewer’s focus.
• The Book “Common Sense” by Thomas Paine: Rhetorical Analysis In Thomas Paine’s Common Sense, the primary example of logos is the title of the literary work itself due to the fact that Paine tries to appeal to the audience.
• Rhetorical Persuasion – Appeals to Logos, Pathos and Ethos In his book “A New History of Classical Rhetoric”, George Kennedy provides us with the insight on the art of persuasion as not only some abstract concept, but also as a very practical instrument of […]
• How TV Affects Your Child: Article Rhetoric Ethos has been employed in the article in order to convince the audience that the writer is credible. At the beginning of the essay, the author cites the Kaiser Family foundation and then also mentions […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Article Having further introduced the main thesis of the essay and having given some background information, the writer moves smoothly to the body of the piece.
• Rhetorical Theory Applied to Michelle Obama’s Speech The next step was the discussion of the candidate’s history, her skills, and the nature of the election. In conclusion, this rhetorical analysis reveals the strengths and weaknesses of Michelle Obama’s speech at the Democratic […]
• Sports Impact on Teenagers: Rhetorical Appeals Participating in any form of sports is of great significance as it helps to utilize, maintain, and improve an individual’s physical capabilities and develop advanced skills in that particular game.
• Rhetorical Analysis: “$350,000 a Year, and Just Getting By” Lowry’s claim that the explanation is the insulation of richness and resulting lack of awareness is fairly convincing and supplemented with effective use of ethos and logos as well as occasional pathos.
• King’s “I Have a Dream” Speech: Rhetorical Analysis The speech is full of outrage and contains allusions to the Bible and the US Declaration of Independence. The main theses of King’s political speeches were not only the equalization of the rights of Whites […]
• Rhetorical Techniques in “Letter From Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King His flawless use of metaphors and parallelism allows the reader or the audience to empathize with King and support him in his fight against racial injustice.
• Syllogism and Enthymeme in Aristotle’s Rhetoric One of the implications of syllogism to audiences is in regards to the possibility of creating offensive conclusions from an argument’s statements.
• Rhetoric: Never Judge a Book by Its Cover I get along well with people and everybody I have come in contact with knows me as a sociable person, but that time, in the fourth grade, I had not sharpened my skills to evaluate […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of Gender-Based Violence Against Women In the abstract, the author disapproves of the notion that GBV is steered by poverty and poor government programs to combat this violence.
• Masaccio’s Holy Trinity: Analysis of Visual Rhetoric It is necessary to outline that his work presents a great interest due to the number of reasons: it was one of the first frescos to contain features of realism and humanism, the work poses […]
• Rhetorical Devices in the Famous Speeches There is no doubt that the persuasiveness and vigor of the speech are created due to the message that is conveyed by it: support of German people who wanted to be free, and due to […]
• The Rhetoric of the Image by Barthes’ Approach Proper consideration of all these levels of the image analysis, provides the analyst with a comprehensive picture of what the image actually presents, what are the hidden, or implicit, meanings it is intended to render, […]
• Barbie Product Advertisement: Rhetorical Analysis In addition, the ad promotes new Barbie Style which is also a new product and “all owners of the Barbie dolls should have it.
• Rhetorical Analysis This is well demonstrated in the web page of the Double Cola Company, a web page that is committed to targeting and attracting the young audience of the high-end economic status.
• The Power and Effect of Rhetoric in King’s Speech “I Have a Dream” King’s 1963 speech at Lincoln Memorial portrays the significance and power of rhetoric in persuading the audience.”I Have a Dream” symbolizes the perfect utilization of rhetorical strategies and devices to influence the masses.
• The Rhetoric of Bob Fosse: Eroticism and Humor in a Musical This was originally a musical produced by Fosse in 1966 and he translated it into the big screen. However, the credit for creating a new style in musical belongs to Fosse.
• Barack Obama’s Speech as a Rhetorical Example The main message of the speech was clearly understood – the president outlined his further steps in the development of the country, he would make.
• Analyzing Visual Rhetoric Masaccio’s 1427 Trinity There are two prospective points of the triangles in the picture: one is at the top of the ceiling and the other is behind the dirt mound at the foot of crucified Jesus.
• Rhetorical Strategies in “The Blind Assassin” by Margaret Atwood The novel relates the events that happened in the 1930’s and refers to the personal angst of the narrator. Iris had a sister called Laura who killed herself after the Second World War and it […]
• Rhetoric: “Cho Seung-Hui’s Killing Rampage” by Tao Lin Lin does not find a connection of their suffering to the deceased. Lin argues that it is “due to the automatic acceptance of a pre-existing sort of guideline or suggestion”.
• Rhetoric in “12 Angry Men” Film by Sidney Lumet In the same manner, he points to the fact that some of the information presented as incriminating the boy is insufficient for establishing the personality of a killer.
• Rhetoric in “Is Google Making Us Stupid” by Carr An overview of the essay revealed the application of a careful appeal to the reader’s emotions, the establishment of the writer’s credibility, logical presentation of relevant information, and the subtle entreaty using shared experiences.
• Rhetorical Criticism of the Titanic Jack and Rose develop a friendship They walk round the ship and explore all the hidden areas The people of the high class treat and see the employees and people from the lower societies There […]
• Rhetoric: Oral Presentations Comparison In the case of Kleinhans, these techniques involve the application of stress and intonation to convey information to the listener better.
• Public Speaking and Rhetorical Implications The speaker makes connections between the audience and the topic of his speech a few times. The speaker recognizes some relationships between himself and the audience at some points in his lecture.
• Progress in Cancer Control: Rhetorical Analysis According to their study, these behaviors are more likely to lead to cancer, and the authors’ goal is to convince the audience that they should take responsibility for their health and strive to minimize the […]
• Harris’s “Can We Build AI…?” Talk: Rhetorical Analysis These statements are examples of the use of logos since they are logically intuitive to the point that any member of the general audience can understand.
• Rhetorical Analysis of Socialism vs. Capitalism by Thompson In order to convey this message, the author uses several rhetorical devices, the discussion of which is part of this analysis.
• Rhetoric of Wineburg and Ziv’s Article on Education The authors urge for a drastic change in the national approach to credibility education, which is evident from the appeal to public endangerment at the very end of the editorial.
• Rhetorical Modes Anthology: Rugby It is a game that turns boys into men and teaches the art of protecting one another in the field. The rugby game teaches discipline as it involves a high level of preparation, and involvement […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of Articles on Sweatshops Ravisankar specifically appeals to the ideals and emotions of the audience by exposing the businesses’ desire to maximize profits at any cost and outlining the horrifying workplace conditions at sweatshops.
• Rhetorical Analysis of The Advertised Infant by Corbeil In the text, the author tries to present the consequences of delegating parental roles to baby products. The thesis sets the foundation and can be used to determine the focus of the essay.
• Gasper’s “Marxism, Morality…” Rhetorical Analysis Despite the positive impact that the use of hypophora as a rhetorical device has on Gasper’s argument in “Marxism, morality, and human nature,” the logical fallacy of the appeal to authority reduces the extent of […]
• Rhetorical Modes to Use When Discussing Soccer The advancement of urbanization and industrialization led to a reduced leisure period coupled with constant violence that undermined and slowed the game’s development. The team that outscores the rival is the winner, while scoring the […]
• Rhetoric in Culture: Latino Traditions in America Rhetoric communication is a special feature of linguistics that enables the speaker to persuade the audience and influence them to act in a given way.
• Rhetorical Modes Anthology on Attention Deficit Disorder It clearly outlines the origin and early symptoms of the disorder and the scientist who discovered attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Summary & Validity: This article describes the causes of hyperactivity disorder and the potential factors […]
• “Is Google Making Us Stupid?” Article by Carr: Rhetorical Analysis The analysis will be centered on the rhetorical means which help the author convey the main idea and attract the readers’ attention to the particular argument.
• Rhetorical Analysis of Jean-François Lyotard’s The Postmodern Condition The author does not call on the audience to reconsider the concepts and the state of knowledge, which he defines as ‘postmodern,’ but reflects on changing the paradigm of knowledge in society.
• The Rhetorical Analysis of the Organic Fable by Cohen In the article “Organic Fable,” Cohen used ethos, logos, and pathos to reveal his opinion and contract of organic foods effectively.
• Rhetoric in Obama’s 2008 Speech on Racism When the audience became excited, it was Obama’s responsibility to convey his message in a more accessible form. To conclude, Obama’s speech in 2008 facilitated his election as the first African American President in history.
• “The Rhetoric & Poetics of Aristotle” Book This is necessary to feed more meaning to the language used and contributes to the ability of rhetoric in interpersonal communication. Human interaction is a continuous communication and going back and forth in the rhetoric […]
• The Philosophy and Rhetoric Journal Analysis The evolving nature of the auditor inside the profession’s legitimization narratives shows the changes in the function of auditing, the economic climate, and American society’s values.
• Dogs in the Military: Articles’ Rhetorical Analysis Despite the different pathetic natures of the two compared articles about dogs in the industry, their comparison proves that the utilitarian and ethical utility of a scientific article is detectable regardless of the level of […]
• Rhetorical Modes of the “Billions” TV Show On the one hand, the attorney is desperate to reveal the secrets and wrongdoings of Axe Capital, which would help the legal system battle all evil.
• Rhetoric of Article on Health Risks Posed by Energy Drinks This is a factual statement which the authors used to illustrate their premise on the consequences of drinking energy drinks to the health of the user.
• Rhetorical Analysis of a “Fitness ABC’s Certification Manual” For instance, the prevalence of the white color and the scarce number of images and illustrations contribute to the sense of the ordinary.
• Binge-Watching as an Issue for a Rhetorical Situation The topic is important due to the common phenomenon of binge-watching correlating with the abundance of streaming platforms. A possible repercussion linked to binge-watching is the time-consuming effect of the behavior.
• Think Before Judge: Rhetorical Analysis of Image The audience to which this image is directed is as diverse as the object itself, that is, both a child and an adult can understand the meaning of the hidden one.
• Employing Rhetoric Strategies in Writing Most of the time, if you are going to employ this rhetorical device, you will want to compare and contrast both similarities and differences.
• The Application of Rhetoric Devices The primary purpose of rhetoric is to provoke the audience to think while allowing the author to stance in an argument.
• Rhetorical Strategies of Conquest The Four Voyages of Columbus by Columbus, The Chronicle of The Discovery and Conquest of Guinea by Azurara, and Letters from Mexico by Cortes report the colonial exploits back to the Portuguese and Spanish royalty.
• Rhetorical Elements of PayPal Online Commercial Aside from the actors, the imagery used in the commercial shows how easy it is to use PayPal as a payment option through the on-screen emulation of the app’s user interface. It is a clear […]
• Rhetoric: Kurzweil’s “How to Create a Mind” and Gardner’s “Creating Minds” Huge shifts in the intellectual climate caused by the dialogue of two cultures – natural and technical, on the one hand, and humanitarian and social, on the other, attracted the attention of researchers and gave […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of Paypal’s Online Payments Commercial The commercial assures its clients of privacy which is a tactical use of the rhetorical appeal that contributes to the commercial’s persuasive nature.
• Ocean Dumping Issue and Rhetorical Rationale Therefore, the goal of this paper is to prove that the poster in question manages to accomplish an impressive goal of subverting the audience’s expectation and encouraging them to shift from an ironic perception of […]
• Rhetoric and Philosophy of Socrates and Gorgias Socrates argues that oratory practices that became popular among sophists in Athens pursue convincing and persuading rather than speaking the truth.”And the same will be true of the orator and the oratory in relation to […]
• Michele Obama’s Speech: A Rhetorical Analysis The main message of the First Lady was to draw attention to the suppression of the advertising of unhealthy food to minors.
• Rhetorical Analysis: Effective Communication He also directs the audience’s attention to the government’s wrongdoings and the consequences of the ANC’s movement. Both speakers employ pathos to appeal to their audience’s emotions and be part of the desired change.
• Rhetorical Analysis: Logos and Pathos in Trump’s Truth In the third chapter, “The Truth Is the Greatest Enemy of the State,” attention is paid to Trump’s speeches and promises.
• Rhetorical Analysis of Basketball In this aspect, it is worth considering basketball not only from an emotional and ethical point of view but also from a logical one, thus, the logos.
• The Nuclear Power Passages: Rhetorical Analysis At that, the writer also provides some data utilized by the former vice president and some information to show the negative side of power plants.
• Analysis of Visual Rhetoric in Business Due to the use of its unique colors and the incorporation of simple visuals representative of the main idea, namely, price tags with time markers on them, IKEA has managed to introduce the idea of […]
• Rhetoric Methods and Their Analysis The essay frequently tells the story of a momentous event in the first person, and it may be written in a variety of genres, including formal essays and creative non-fiction.
• Dark Window on Human Trafficking: Rhetorical Analysis In this essay, Ceaser utilized his rhetorical skills to dive into the dark world of human trafficking, which severely hits Latin America and the USA, through the usage of images and forms of different societal […]
• Rhetorical Devices in America’s Opioid Crisis Documentary In addition, the interview with the mother of an athlete, who was prescribed painkillers and found dead because of overdose, persuades the target audience to think about the opioid crisis.
• Rhetoric and Reality of Human Rights Protection For example, the prohibition of homosexuality in many countries of Africa and the Middle East, the restriction of China and Russia’s citizen’s freedoms, and the dictatorship of Africa and Latin America.
• Rhetorical Argument in the Community Gardens The community garden ensured a large and growing community partnership that is incredibly committed to student development, nutrition, and food sustainability.
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Distance Education The essay can be addressed both to the children and parents for whom the issues of health and psychology are important.
• Analysis of Rhetorical Techniques of “The Book of Questions” by Pablo Neruda On the one hand, poetry can and should be enjoyable; on the other hand, however, it needs to compel the reader to critically examine the world order and the nature of things.
• Rhetoric of Anti-Vaccination Comments by Joe Rogan The argument by Joe Rogan relied on the logic that young people who exercise and eat a healthy diet are not likely to get the disease.
• Rhetorical Analysis of “Leave Fat Kids Alone” Article by Gordon In the second part of the article, Gordon provides statistical information about overweight and the emergence of the war on childhood obesity.
• Rhetorical Analysis: The Criteria of Ethos, Pathos, and Logos In general, the latter presents the description of the company and the specifics of the scientific field, which is the focus of the explorations.
• Rhetorical Strategies: A Natural History of Four Meals To begin with, one should explain that Pollan relies on ethos to claim that the industrial food chain implies essential disadvantages for consumers and the whole planet.
• Rhetorical Analysis: Elements and Concepts Myles Allen himself is “Professor of Geosystem Science in the School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford and Head of the Climate Dynamics Group in the University’s Department of Physics”.
• Rhetorical Analysis of Academic Communities Comparing the individual articles published in the journals as examples of the discourse in the field of finance, it is possible to note that such a reputable source as The Journal of Finance is characterized […]
• Communication and Rhetoric: Concepts of Fish and Thaler Rhetoric can be marked by a significant development since the beginning of the 20th century as literary theorists began to reconsider and elaborate on the ideas of ancient and medieval scholars.
• Messaris’s Theory: Images Application in Rhetoric To prove this point, this paper will explore Messaris’s theory of visual rhetoric and claim that images can be persuasive because of their immediacy and the absence of syllogistic construction.
• Rhetorical Theory: Robert Ivie’s Argument Therefore, there is a need to find a rhetorical sense of balance between the leadership-enabled opinion and policy juxtaposed by the underlying culture of beliefs, values, and accepted behaviors.”Negotiating the precarious line between division and […]
• Communication and Rhetoric by Burke The social aspect is central to rhetoric, according to Burke, who stressed that the system of symbols used for communication was to be common for the speaker and the listeners.
• Communication & Rhetoric: Stanley Fish Speech Analysis One of the most striking and valuable insights related to Stanley Fish’s position is related to the way rhetoric ‘transgresses’ the limits of the real world.
• Rhetorical Analysis on Healthy Food and Labeling Problem This approach of the author is a manifestation of logos since the explanations rationalize the existence of the problem. This article has three parts, in which the author explains the cult of “healthy” unprocessed food, […]
• Rhetorical Critique Article Analysis: Banning Cell Phones and Laptops in the Class Lucy Morsen, the author of the practical proposal concerning the banning of cell phones and laptops in the class, successfully used rhetorical strategies and approaches supported by arguments and results of the recent researches proving […]
• Rhetoric Definition by Socrates and Gorgios Doubting the existence of the reliable criteria of seeking the truth, the sophistic paid more attention to a more accessible object of cognition – to the human, to the humans mind, and to the humans […]
• Rhetoric. The Mystery of the Bermuda Triangle by Upton The objective of this essay is to analyze the rhetorical strategies in the article, “The Mystery of the Bermuda Triangle” by Emily Upton.
• Analysis of Upton’s “The Truth About the Bermuda Triangle” From a Rhetorical Perspective The objective of this essay is to analyse the use of some rhetorical appeals and devices in the article, “The Truth about the Bermuda Triangle”.
• Clyde Prestowitz. “Apple Has an Obligation to Help Solve America’s Problems”. Analysis of Rhetorical Strategies Reflecting on the article’s presentation, it should be stated that the author has developed a solid piece of information on the issue of jobs creation in the United States using the art of rhetoric effectively […]
• The Importance of the Rhetorical Triangle The speaker must be able to maintain the interest and enthusiasm of the audience. The audience must be alert, have an interest in the presentation, and feel as they are an important part of the […]
• The Role of Islamic Rhetoric in the Afghanistan-Soviet War of 1979 – 1989 It is the resilience of the people and harshness of the terrain that made it difficult to conquer the country that borders Pakistan to the South, Iran to the West, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan to the east.
• Visual Rhetoric: The Iraq War and Torture of Abu Ghraib Prisoners Those photos were then given out as evidence of torture that was being done by the American soldiers on the detainees of Abu Ghraib.
• Bhopal Disaster Report’s Rhetorical Analysis The website is devoted for the analysis of the aftermath of the tragedy and its effects on the residents. The main attempt of the communication is to show the initial affects on the children of […]
• Rhetoric Analysis: ”Targeted Killing and Drone Warfare” by Anderson In this article, Anderson justifies the use of unmanned drone airstrikes as part of the concerted efforts of NATO allies to seek out and destroy suspected Al-Quadi hideouts in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
• Rhetoric and Stereotypes of Social Groups The stereotypes connected with tattooed people can be seen more related to particular groups such as criminals, delinquent people and bikers.
• Rhetoric in “Women in the Nineteenth Century” by Margaret Fuller In her essay, she described women as holly and righteous as can be seen from the examples she gave about the knight who had the name of the Virgin on his lips.
• Presentation Delivery Modes and Rhetorical Triangle What is characteristic of a lecture is that the information is transmitted one way only, from the speaker to the audience.
• Toyota Corporation’s Ad: Rhetorical Triangle The rhetorical triangle is used to analyze the attributes of a presentation in bringing out the intended message to the audience and consists of the ethos, logos and pathos.
• Personal Rhetoric in Books It is not but before the first few lines of each piece in which the author establishes a personal foundation for the rest of the article to be built on.
• Aristotle’s Influence on History of Rhetoric: Treatise Rhetoric and the Concept of the Rhetorical Triangle Aristotle has written works in a number of subjects, such as ethics, poetry, politics, music, biology, physics, etc, but among these, his contributions into rhetoric are the most valuable; within this field, Aristotle is known […]
• Rhetorical Problem of George H.W. Bush Speech Descriptive Analysis However, a closer look at the speech putting into consideration the consequences of the gulf war on the United States and the global community may give us a different and clear picture of the events […]
• Rhetoric in “The Land Before Time” by M. T. Kelly Since the author is keenly aware of the magnitude of the landscape and the topic he describes, Kelly makes the structure of the essay one of the means of disclosure of the theme of the […]
• Modern Language: Personal-Critical-Rhetorical Perception The primary concern of Rochelle Harris’ article “Encouraging Emergent Moments: The Personal, Critical and Rhetorical in the Writing Classroom” is to explore a new approach to teaching composition classes to students so that they become […]
• Persuasive Techniques and Rhetorical Proofs in Articles However, only a profound analysis of the article can throw light on whether the article has credibility or ethical appeal, which is the kind of appeal that the article arouses in the emotions of the […]
• Logic Dialectic and Rhetoric: Compare and Contrast In addition, the prominent thinker estimated rhetoric in the context of logic, because logic, as well as rhetoric and dialectic, point out the studying of persuasion methods.
• Advertisement Rhetoric Analysis Occasionally, the effect a particular advertisement might have on the public is the primary focus of the ad with the product a perceived secondary reference.
• Rhetoric of Social Movements. The Black Panthers It analyzes the forms of public address and popular resistance associated with the social movement, specifies the formal nature of the organization, and gives an analysis of the effectiveness of the official means of public […]
• Rhetoric. “Oedipus” Play by Sophocles In the play, Oedipus sought his own origins because he understands the importance of knowing his own family. The theme of destiny is also important in the play Oedipus.
• Forgive Wolfowitz: Article Rhetoric The subject of the article is to convey us that the mistakes made by Paul Wolfowitz at the World Bank resulting crisis and hunger should be forgiven as the person is concern had only noble […]
• Phillis Wheatley: Rhetoric Theory in Retrospective The term African American engages the issues closely associated with the writings of the Americans and their place in the literary context: What role they have in the literature and what importance they exert in […]
• Analyzing Visual Rhetoric: Images Analysis The gun point is actually in the upper half of the picture and the aim is at the viewer’s eye level.
• Rhetoric & Professional Communication: Advertising So, the aim of this essay is to examine the essence of the rhetorical theory, its methods, and the results it gives to its user. White space is the advertising tool discussed in the article; […]
• Mark Edmonson’s Rhetoric in “The Heart of Humanities” Mark Edmonson’s The Heart of Humanities: Reading, Writing, Teaching is a collection of works that explore the importance of the three components for those interested in pursuing humanities as a future study field.
• Rhetorical Triangle of Infinity Q50 Advertisement In advertising, the rhetorical triangle has particular importance because each of the mentioned components is necessary for invoking different types of appeal between the target audience and the presenter of a message.
• Smoking Bans: Protecting the Public and the Children of Smokers The purpose of the article is to show why smoking bans aim at protecting the public and the children of smokers.
• Women Suffrage in Carrie Chapman’s Rhetoric The paper is a bright example of the in-depth analysis of the problem and a perfect insight into the future of womens participation in the political life of the country.
• Health Information Privacy Standards: Rhetoric Analysis It is easy to understand the purpose of the document, because the USDHHS provided enough information to explain the importance of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.
• Rhetoric in “A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift Swift does conduct some math to establish the number of miscarriages, deaths, and the number of children born in a year.
• Rhetoric in Baldwin’s and Naylor’s Linguistics Articles In its turn, this was meant to convince readers that the Naylor’s view of language could be indeed considered perfectly sound.
• Rhetoric in Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple” It can be argued that the purpose of Walker’s appeals to her audience is to instill a sense of pride and confidence in them.
• Rhetoric: Social Issues’ Influences on US Children Such an approach does not allow the readers to be 100% sure that this information is true to life and makes the statement rather weak.
• Salem Cigarettes Ads and Rhetorical Appeals The advert is trying to persuade both the male and female of the tender age that it is fashionable to smoke cigarettes.’If one can smoke Salem and look handsome and cool why not me?’ that […]
• Utilitarianism in Ron Paul’s Rhetoric In fact, former Congressman Ron Paul believes that in order to create the most good, the best strategy is to reduce the involvement of big government in the affairs of men.
• Barack Obama’s Inaugural Speech and Rhetoric Obama seems to be talking from a point of experience and his understanding of the challenges he articulates is a proof to his assertion.
• Rhetorical Situations: Ethos, Pathos, Logos A rhetorical situation is a context that constitutes a given issue, the audience, and the constraints that might make it hard for the speaker to persuade the audience to share his or her viewpoint.
• Isocrates and Aristotle Views on Rhetorical Devices I find it hard to believe that such an accomplished rhetor as yourself, would doubt that the main rules and principles of rhetorical persuasion are universally applicable, and that it is specified by the mean […]
• Steve Jobs’ Stanford Speech Rhetorical Strategies Speaking of the goals which Steve Jobs pursued when having a public speech in front of the students of the Stanford University, one has to mention that these goals had nothing to do with Jobs’ […]
• Rhetorical Analysis of Obama’s Speech In his speech, Barack Obama makes a magnificent attempt to address the issues of racial dishonesty and white privilege that is still observed in America, to describe the “black anger” that is inherent to the […]
• Rhetoric Analysis of The Mind’s Eye by Oliver Sacks
• Political Rhetoric: Barack Obama’s March 18 Speech
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Article”Digital Natives and Immigrants” by Nancy Herther
• The Origin of Rhetoric
• “A Proposal for an Invitational Rhetoric” by Foss and Griffin
• Cultural and Rhetorical Analysis of Presidential Debates
• A Rhetoric Analysis of Economic Discourses in the Climate – Change Debate
• Rhetorical Analysis of Ethos in “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave”
• Rhetoric Philosophy and Shapiro’s Criticism on the Dworkin’s Work
• Social Constructionism and Its Impact on Cultural Identity in a Society Ruled by a Strong Rhetoric of Risk and Health and Safety Regulations
• Rhetoric as an Art
• Orientalist Constructions of Muslim Bodies and the Rhetoric of the «War on Terror»
• Comparing and contrasting Rhetoric: Tabbi and Thomas Friedman
• Rhetoric Situation in Articles
• Rhetorical Analysis: Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address
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• Rhetoric Devices in Art and Design
• Critique and Rhetorical Analysis
• The Art of Conversation: Rhetorical Devices
• The Rhetorical Analysis: Nuclear Wastes Challenges
• Rhetorical Analysis: Chinese Zodiac Movie Poster
• Rhetorical Analysis: “The Pack Rat among Us”
• Rhetoric in American Politics
• Rhetorical Analysis of Wal-Mart: The Cost of Low Prices
• Analyzing The Rhetorical Aspect In Dexter
• Watts, James Washington. Ritual and Rhetoric in Leviticus: From Sacrifice to Scripture
• Rhetorical situations in the Experiences and Goals Letter
• The Negative Effects of Wealth in Society: Rhetorical Analysis
• Rhetorical Situation of a Resume
• Aspects of Rhetoric and Stereotype Image
• Rhetorical Analysis of the Communist Manifesto
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• How Is Visual Rhetoric Related to the Case of Intellectual Capital?
• What Are the Types of Rhetoric?
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• What Are the Features of Questions and Rhetoric in the Greek New Testament?
• Why Do People Use Rhetoric?
• What Makes the Millennial Bashing Rhetoric?
• How Does Machiavelli Use Persuasive Rhetoric?
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• How Did the Context of Rome Influence the Role of Rhetoric During Roman?
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Home — Essay Types — Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Examples

How to choose the best rhetorical analysis topic.

Choosing the best topic for a rhetorical analysis essay is a crucial step that sets the stage for insightful and engaging writing. This process demands a thoughtful consideration of various factors to ensure that your essay not only demonstrates your analytical skills but also captivates your audience. Here's a more detailed guide to navigating this selection process, ensuring you pick a topic that is both meaningful and manageable.

Interest and Relevance

Begin by identifying topics that spark your interest or passion. Writing about something you find intriguing naturally leads to a more engaging and enthusiastic analysis. Furthermore, consider the relevance of the topic to current events or societal issues. Topics that touch on contemporary debates or ongoing cultural conversations tend to resonate more with readers and provide a richer ground for analysis.

Availability of Sources

Ensure there is enough material available to support your analysis. This could include speeches, texts, advertisements, or any media content that is rich in rhetorical strategies. A topic with ample sources allows for a deeper dive into various rhetorical techniques and their effectiveness.

Scope and Complexity

Choose a topic with a manageable scope. It should be neither too broad that it becomes overwhelming to cover in detail nor too narrow that it lacks sufficient content for analysis. The complexity of the topic should match your ability to dissect and understand the rhetorical strategies employed.

Impact on Society

Consider topics that have had a significant impact on society. Analyzing how rhetoric has influenced public opinion, shaped political discourse, or contributed to cultural shifts can provide insightful perspectives on the power of effective communication.

Originality

Strive for originality in your topic selection. While it's helpful to review examples of rhetorical essays or rhetorical analysis essay examples, choosing a unique angle or a less commonly analyzed text can make your essay stand out. This approach not only showcases your creativity but also your ability to apply analytical skills to new and diverse materials.

Audience Engagement

Think about your potential audience and select a topic that would engage them. Understanding your audience's interests and background can help tailor your analysis in a way that is both accessible and compelling.

🔥 30 Hot Rhetorical Analysis Essay Titles in 2024

The year 2024 is ripe with opportunities for rhetorical analysis, from political speeches addressing global challenges to influential social media campaigns reshaping public opinion. These topics not only reflect current trends but also offer a deep well of rhetorical techniques worth exploring.

• Analyzing the Rhetoric of Climate Change in Political Speeches
• The Power of Social Media Influencers: A Rhetorical Analysis
• Rhetorical Strategies in "The Future We Choose" by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac
• "Why We Can't Wait" by Martin Luther King Jr.: A Rhetorical Examination
• Dissecting the Appeals in Greta Thunberg's UN Speech
• The Rhetoric of Hope in Barack Obama's "Yes We Can" Speech
• Persuasion Techniques in Apple's Product Launches
• "The Danger of a Single Story" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: A Rhetorical Analysis
• Rhetorical Devices in "Letter from Birmingham Jail"
• Analysis of Rhetorical Strategies in "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg
• Elon Musk's Vision for the Future: A Rhetorical Review
• Rhetorical Elements in the #MeToo Movement Speeches
• "A Time for Choosing" by Ronald Reagan: Rhetorical Analysis
• The Art of Persuasion in Winston Churchill's War Speeches
• Analyzing the Appeal in Malala Yousafzai's Nobel Prize Lecture

👍 10 Good Titles for Rhetorical Analysis Essays

A good rhetorical analysis essay title promises an insightful exploration of persuasive communication techniques. These topics are selected for their significant cultural, political, or social impact, providing a rich basis for analysis.

• "I Have a Dream" Rhetorical Analysis
• Analyzing the Pathos in "The Diary of Anne Frank"
• Ethos, Pathos, and Logos in "The Audacity of Hope" by Barack Obama
• A Rhetorical Examination of "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath
• The Power of Language in "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi
• Rhetorical Strategies in "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison
• Dissecting the Appeals in "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
• "The Feminine Mystique" by Betty Friedan: A Rhetorical Critique
• The Persuasive Language of "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin
• Rhetorical Devices in "We Should All Be Feminists" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

🎯 10 Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

For those new to rhetorical analysis or looking for more straightforward subjects, these topics offer a gentler introduction. They focus on popular media and public campaigns, where rhetorical strategies are both prominent and accessible to beginners.

• Rhetorical Techniques in Super Bowl Commercials
• Analyzing Rhetoric in Viral TED Talks
• The Persuasive Power of Instagram Campaigns
• Rhetoric in the "Share a Coke" Campaign
• Speech Analysis: Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Address
• Rhetorical Strategies in Movie Trailers
• The Art of Persuasion in Children's Advertising
• Rhetorical Elements in Presidential Inauguration Speeches
• The Use of Pathos in Animal Rights Campaigns
• Ethos, Logos, and Pathos in Health Awareness PSAs

🏫 Popular Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College

College students can deepen their analytical skills by exploring these popular rhetorical analysis topics. They span a range of interests, from literature and advertising to social movements and media, reflecting the diverse ways rhetoric shapes our world.

• The Rhetoric of American Dream in Modern Literature
• Gender Roles and Rhetoric in 21st-Century Advertising
• The Evolution of Rhetorical Strategies in Social Movements
• Rhetorical Analysis of News Media's Coverage on Climate Change
• The Use of Rhetoric in Legalizing Marijuana Debates
• Ethical Persuasion Techniques in Non-Profit Organizations
• The Influence of Rhetoric in Fashion Industry Marketing
• Analyzing Rhetorical Appeals in Documentary Films
• The Role of Rhetoric in Video Game Narratives
• The Power of Rhetorical Questions in Political Discourse

💡 Insightful Speech Ideas for Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Speeches have long been a goldmine for rhetorical analysis, offering a direct insight into the speaker's persuasive techniques. These topics cover a range of speeches, from historical milestones to contemporary talks, each providing a unique perspective on effective rhetoric.

• The Rhetorical Impact of "The Gettysburg Address"
• Rhetorical Devices in "The Declaration of Independence"
• Analyzing the Persuasive Techniques in Emma Watson's UN Speech for HeForShe
• The Use of Rhetoric in Historic Farewell Addresses
• Rhetorical Strategies in Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speeches
• The Art of Rhetoric in Valedictorian Speeches
• "Abigail Adams' Letter to John Quincy Adams
• The Role of Ethos in Human Rights Advocacy Speeches
• Pathos and Logos in Environmental Activist Speeches
• Rhetorical Techniques in Award Acceptance Speeches

Each section offers a curated list of topics designed to spark interest and inspire deep analytical thought. Whether you're drawn to contemporary issues or historical speeches, these topics serve as a starting point for a compelling rhetorical analysis essay.

Crafting a rhetorical analysis essay involves dissecting how a writer or speaker uses words to influence an audience, focusing on the effectiveness and techniques rather than the content itself. This guide delves into the art of writing a compelling rhetorical essay, incorporating examples of rhetorical essays to illustrate key points.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

A rhetorical analysis essay dives deep into the artistry behind an author’s method of communication, scrutinizing the deliberate choice of words, structure, and overall rhetorical techniques used to sway or enlighten the audience. Unlike typical essays that might argue for or against the author’s position, a rhetorical essay takes a step back, focusing purely on the craftsmanship of the argument itself. How does the author appeal to the audience? What strategies are employed to make their message resonate more deeply or convincingly? This analytical approach is invaluable in academic environments, pushing students to not only observe and report but to critically evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies. Doing so, sharpens critical thinking and analytical skills, equipping students with the ability to dissect complex arguments and understand the underlying mechanics of persuasive writing.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis

Writing a successful rhetorical analysis essay begins with thoroughly reading and understanding the text in question. Identify the author’s purpose, target audience, and the strategies used to achieve their goals. Highlighting direct quotes and examples of rhetorical essays can serve as a solid foundation for your analysis. This process allows you to dissect the text meticulously, revealing the nuances of the author’s strategies. Here’s a breakdown of the main points to consider when crafting your essay:

• Thorough Reading : Start with a comprehensive reading of the text. Pay close attention to its overall structure, the tone of the writing, and the main themes presented. This initial step is crucial for gaining a deep understanding of the material you will analyze.
• Identify the Purpose : Every text is written with a specific purpose in mind. Determine what the author intends to achieve. Are they trying to persuade, inform, entertain, or provoke thought? Understanding the purpose is key to analyzing the rhetorical strategies employed.
• Understand the Audience : Who is the target audience of the text? Identifying the audience is essential because the rhetorical techniques used by the author are often tailored to the values, beliefs, or interests of this group. Knowing the audience helps in evaluating the effectiveness of these strategies.
• Analyze the Strategies : Break down the specific strategies the author uses to reach their audience and fulfill their purpose. Look for examples of ethos (credibility), pathos (emotional appeal), and logos (logical argument) within the text. Each of these appeals plays a crucial role in persuasion and should be carefully examined.
• Use Direct Quotes : Incorporate direct quotes from the text to support your analysis. These quotes serve as concrete evidence of the rhetorical strategies you identify. They also help to substantiate your claims about how the author’s choices impact the overall effectiveness of the text.

Following these points ensures a structured and comprehensive approach to writing a rhetorical analysis essay, enabling you to deliver a critique that is both insightful and substantiated.

As you craft your rhetorical analysis essay, incorporating cause-and-effect essay topics that challenge your analytical skills can significantly enhance your argumentation and understanding of the rhetorical strategies employed in your primary texts, leading to a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.

How to Structure a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Structuring a rhetorical analysis essay follows a conventional essay format but with a focus on analysis rather than exposition. It typically includes an introduction that presents the text being analyzed, a thesis statement that outlines the main argument or findings, body paragraphs that dissect various rhetorical strategies, and a conclusion that summarizes the analysis and discusses the impact or importance of the rhetorical strategies used.

Major Rhetorical Elements

Understanding and identifying rhetorical elements are crucial. These include the rhetorical situation (author, audience, purpose), use of rhetorical appeals, and stylistic choices (language, tone, structure). A rhetorical analysis essay sample can show how these elements interact within a text.

Rhetorical appeals are strategies authors use to persuade their audience, including ethos, pathos, and logos.

• Ethos  refers to the credibility or ethical appeal the writer establishes, convincing the audience of their reliability or authority on the subject matter.
• Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions, seeking to evoke feelings that support the author’s argument.
• Logos involves logical reasoning, where the author uses facts, statistics, or logical arguments to appeal to the audience’s rationality.

Text and Context

Delving into the context surrounding a text enriches your rhetorical analysis, shedding light on the nuances that might affect its interpretation and impact. Historical conditions at the time of writing can reveal why certain rhetorical strategies were employed or why the text resonated with its audience in a particular way.

Social norms and values inform the ethos and pathos appeals, as what is considered credible or emotionally stirring can vary widely across different societies and eras. P

Political climate plays a crucial role too; a text might be responding to, challenging, or supporting prevailing political ideologies or policies. Understanding these layers of context allows you to not only analyze the text on a surface level but also to appreciate the depth and complexity of its rhetorical strategies.

This comprehensive approach adds a rich dimension to your analysis, offering a more nuanced view of the text’s persuasive power and its place within a broader historical, social, a

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

Identify the author’s main claims, the evidence or support provided, and the warrants, which are the underlying assumptions that connect the support to the claims.

Identifying the author’s main claims, the evidence or support provided, and the warrants—those underlying assumptions linking the evidence to the claims—is critical. These elements form the backbone of the argument, showcasing how the author constructs a logical, persuasive case. Unpacking these components reveals the argument’s strength and its persuasive appeal, offering insights into the author’s rhetorical skill and the argument’s potential impact on the audience.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

An outline organizes your thoughts and ensures your essay is coherent and focused.

• Analyzing the Text. Begin with an in-depth examination of the text, noting the rhetorical strategies used.
• Rhetorical Analysis Introduction. Introduce the text and provide background information. State your thesis, summarizing your main analytical points.
• Rhetorical Analysis Body Paragraph. Each body paragraph should focus on a single rhetorical strategy, providing examples and explaining its effectiveness.
• Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion. Conclude by summarizing your analysis and reflecting on the significance of the rhetorical strategies used, possibly considering their broader implications.

Including a rhetorical analysis essay sample  can significantly enhance understanding by demonstrating how to apply theoretical concepts in a practical context. For instance, analyzing a well-known speech, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream,” could serve as an excellent example of rhetorical analysis. In this case, the essay might explore how King uses ethos to establish his credibility as a leader in the civil rights movement, pathos to evoke a deep emotional response from his audience, and logos to present logical arguments for racial equality and justice.

Another topic that could serve as a rhetorical analysis essay example is an analysis of a key advertising campaign by a famous brand, such as Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign. This example would illustrate how the company uses various rhetorical strategies to appeal to its target audience, motivate them, and ultimately persuade them to purchase their products.

A third example could be a detailed examination of an influential op-ed piece from a major newspaper, analyzing how the author constructs their argument to persuade readers on a controversial issue. This rhetorical essay example would delve into the use of evidence, the appeal to the readers’ values and beliefs, and the structure of the argument to maximize its persuasive impact.

By exploring these topics, readers can gain a clearer understanding of how to identify and analyze the rhetorical strategies used in different types of texts. These examples of rhetorical essays highlight the importance of context, audience, and purpose in shaping effective communication, providing valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their analytical and persuasive writing skills.

5 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Tips

• Always keep the rhetorical situation in mind. This means considering the relationship between the speaker, the audience, and the message to fully understand the effectiveness of the rhetorical strategies used.
• Use direct quotes as evidence. Incorporating quotes directly from the text not only provides solid backing for your analysis but also demonstrates a precise understanding of the source material.
• Avoid summarizing the text; focus on analysis.  While a summary can provide context, the primary goal is to delve into how the text works rhetorically, examining the strategies and their impact rather than recounting the content.
• Be clear and concise in your argumentation.  Clarity and brevity ensure that your analysis is accessible and straightforward, making your arguments stronger and more persuasive to the reader.
• Proofread for clarity and coherence.  A thorough review of your essay can help eliminate errors and ensure that your analysis flows logically from one point to the next, enhancing the overall quality of your work.

While delving into the intricacies of rhetorical analysis essays, embedding exploratory essays that break down complex issues within your study can provide a multifaceted approach to your analysis, offering a deeper understanding of the text’s persuasive techniques and the broader implications of its arguments.

Final Words

In conclusion, mastering the art of writing a rhetorical analysis essay not only sharpens your critical thinking and analytical skills but also enhances your ability to engage deeply with various forms of communication. The use of examples of rhetorical essays plays a pivotal role in this learning process, serving as illuminating guides that showcase the application of theoretical concepts in real-world texts. By examining rhetorical essay examples, you gain valuable insights into effective analytical techniques, understanding not just the ‘what’ but the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind rhetorical strategies.

We strongly encourage you to explore rhetorical analysis essay examples on our website. These resources can significantly aid in developing your analytical prowess, offering a diverse range of texts and contexts to study and learn from. These samples provide practical insights and inspiration for your writing.

Remember, every rhetorical analysis essay sample is an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of rhetorical communication, enhancing your appreciation for the subtleties of argumentation and persuasion. As you explore these examples on our website, you’re not just preparing to write your next essay; you’re building a foundation for more effective communication and critical engagement with the world around you. So, take this chance to enrich your understanding and skills in rhetorical analysis by reviewing the wealth of examples we have made available for you.

The Rhetorical Mastery of Martin Luther King Jr.

Introduction Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most influential figures in American history, is celebrated not only for his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement but also for his extraordinary rhetorical skills. His speeches, particularly the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, are masterclasses…

The Rhetoric of Forensic Science: An Analytical Perspective

Introduction Forensic science has become a cornerstone of modern criminal investigations, permeating both real-world law enforcement and popular media. The field’s reliance on scientific principles to uncover truths in criminal cases has not only advanced the criminal justice system but also captivated the public imagination….

Rhetorical Analysis of Queen Elizabeth I’s Speech to the Troops at Tilbury

Introduction Queen Elizabeth I’s speech to the troops at Tilbury in 1588 stands as one of the most iconic moments in English history. Delivered amidst the threat of the Spanish Armada, the speech is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its…

Rhetorical Analysis of Judy Brady’s “I Want a Wife”

Introduction Judy Brady’s essay “I Want a Wife” first appeared in Ms. Magazine in 1971 and has since been regarded as an iconic piece of feminist literature. The essay is a satirical critique of the traditional roles and expectations of wives in a patriarchal society….

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Rhetorical Analysis of JFK’s Inaugural Speech

John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address is one of the most memorable speeches in American history. Delivered on January 20, 1961, it is renowned for its powerful rhetoric and its call to action for the American people and the world at large. This essay aims to…

Rhetorical Analysis of A Literature Place

Introduction In literature, places are not merely settings but are imbued with symbolic meanings that enhance the narrative and deepen the reader’s understanding of the themes. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” is a quintessential example of this literary technique. Among the various settings in…

Rhetorical Analysis No Longer A Dream

Introduction Rhetorical analysis, once perceived as an esoteric endeavor reserved for literary scholars and orators, has evolved into an indispensable tool across disciplines. In today’s multifaceted world, the ability to dissect and understand the mechanisms of persuasion is no longer a dream but a necessity….

Persuasive Strategies in the Allstate “Mayhem” Ad Campaign

Advertising has always been an art form that combines creativity with persuasive techniques to influence consumer behavior. Among the plethora of advertising campaigns, Allstate’s “Mayhem” series stands out for its unique blend of humor, fear, and practicality. This essay seeks to conduct a rhetorical analysis…

A Rhetorical Analysis of The Best Speech

Introduction The art of public speaking has long been revered as one of the most influential tools for shaping opinions, inspiring action, and fostering societal change. Among the pantheon of great orations, one speech often stands out as exemplary in its rhetorical prowess. This essay…

A Rhetorical Analysis of Jim Carrey’s Speech

Introduction Jim Carrey, a name synonymous with comedy and film, delivered a profound and inspirational commencement speech at Maharishi University of Management in 2014. His address, filled with humor, wisdom, and personal anecdotes, transcended the typical celebrity speech, resonating deeply with the graduating class and…

What is a rhetorical essay?

Rhetorical essay writing is quite challenging since it is necessary to provide an explanation of how an author uses words to have an impact on the target audience. In most cases, rhetorical essay examples represent an already existing set of ideas where an author has provided a certain writing style. The topics of rhetorical writing will vary from the dangers of smoking to the role of teachers in the classroom.

How to write rhetorical essays?

Start your essay with an analysis of the content that you work with. Once a certain argumentation is studied, analyze how a certain verbal effect has been achieved. See our free rhetorical analysis essay as a reference to see how the ethos, logos, and pathos elements are analyzed by citing parts of the original text. Do not give an opinion regarding the content itself but focus on the rhetoric alone.

What’s the goal of a rhetorical analysis?

The goal of a rhetorical analysis is to examine how an author or speaker persuades their audience using various rhetorical strategies and techniques. It involves identifying the purpose, audience, context, and methods of communication to evaluate the effectiveness of the argument.

What are logos, ethos, and pathos?

Logos refers to logical appeal or reasoning, ethos to the speaker's credibility or trustworthiness, and pathos to emotional appeal. These are the three pillars of persuasion identified by Aristotle, used to persuade and influence an audience's beliefs or actions.

What are claims, supports, and warrants?

Claims are statements or assertions that the writer or speaker wants the audience to accept. Supports are the evidence or reasons provided to back up those claims. Warrants are the underlying assumptions or principles that connect the supports to the claims, often implicitly, making the argument coherent and persuasive.

What is the “rhetorical triangle”?

The rhetorical triangle is a model that outlines three essential components of persuasive communication: ethos (credibility or ethical appeal), pathos (emotional appeal), and logos (logical appeal). These elements work together to influence an audience effectively.

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A Comprehensive Guide To Rhetorical Essays

Carla johnson.

• June 14, 2023
• How to Guides

Rhetorical essays are an important part of academic writing because they require students to analyze and evaluate the ways that writers try to convince their readers. At its heart, a rhetorical essay looks at how a writer uses language, tone, and structure to get their point across. By learning how to write good rhetorical essays, students can learn how to think critically and become better communicators.

A rhetorical essay has more than one goal and is important for more than one reason. First, it helps students improve their analytical skills by letting them look at how writers try to convince their readers. Second, it helps students become better communicators by teaching them how to use language, tone, and structure in different ways. Lastly, it gives students a chance to work with complicated ideas and arguments and add to the academic discussion in their field.

This thorough guide will cover the most important parts of writing a rhetorical essay, such as planning, writing, and editing. We will also talk about how important it is for a rhetorical essay to have a clear and logical structure and give you tips on how to use rhetorical devices effectively. By the end of this guide, readers will know how to write effective and convincing rhetorical essays in a wide range of academic fields.

What You'll Learn

Understanding Rhetoric

Rhetoric is the art of persuading people with words. It means knowing how different parts of language, like tone, structure, and diction, can be used to persuade people. Rhetoric has a long and interesting history that goes back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was seen as one of the most important parts of education and public life. One of the most important philosophers of all time, Aristotle, wrote a lot about rhetoric and how important it is in society.

The study of rhetoric is important because it gives people a way to think about how language can be used to persuade and change people. Rhetoric is often used in academic writing to analyze and evaluate the ways that writers use to get their point across. By learning how rhetoric works in writing, students can become better communicators and learn how to think critically .

Elements of a Rhetorical Essay

A rhetorical essay is composed of four key elements: the speaker, audience, purpose, and context. Each element plays an important role in the overall effectiveness of the essay .

The speaker is the person or thing in the essay that is giving the message. When analyzing a rhetorical essay, it is important to think about the background, beliefs, and values of the speaker, as well as their credibility. Knowing the speaker’s point of view can help the reader understand the essay’s purpose and setting better.

2. Audience

The group of people the speaker is talking to in the essay is called the audience. When analyzing a rhetorical essay, it is important to think about the audience’s background, beliefs, and values. Understanding the audience’s perspective can help readers better understand the strategies that the speaker is using to persuade them.

The purpose of a rhetorical essay is the reason why the speaker is delivering the message. It can be to inform , persuade, entertain, or any combination of these. It is important to consider the purpose of the essay when analyzing the strategies used by the speaker to achieve their goal.

A rhetorical essay’s context is its cultural, social, and political setting at the time it was written. It’s important to think about the essay’s setting to figure out how the people who read it might have felt about it. For example, an essay written during a time of social unrest might use different strategies than one written during a time of peace.

Real-world examples can help show why each part of a rhetorical essay is important. One powerful example of effective rhetoric is Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. King gave this speech to the thousands of people who had gathered in Washington, D.C. The goal of the speech was to get people to join the civil rights movement, and it was given in the context of the fight for racial equality in the United States . By looking at each part of this speech, readers can learn more about the methods King used to get his point across and the effects it had on society.

To become a better communicator and improve your critical thinking skills , you need to know what goes into a rhetorical essay. By thinking about the speaker, audience, purpose, and setting of a rhetorical essay, readers can learn more about the ways writers try to convince their readers. Students can become more informed and involved citizens by studying rhetoric and adding to the academic conversation in their field of study.

How to Write a Rhetorical Essay

Writing a rhetorical essay requires careful analysis of a text and the use of effective writing strategies. Here is a step-by-step guide to writing a rhetorical essay:

1. Brainstorm and select a topic: Choose a topic that interests you and has a clear purpose. Consider the author’s intent, audience, and context of the text you will be analyzing.

2. Read and analyze the text: Read the text thoroughly and take notes on its key points, structure, and language. Identify the author’s use of rhetorical devices such as imagery, tone, and metaphor.

3. Develop a thesis statement: Based on your analysis, develop a thesis statement that summarizes the main argument of your essay.

4. Organize the essay: Create an outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Use the four elements of a rhetorical essay (speaker, audience, purpose, and context) as a guide to structure your essay .

5. Write the introduction: Begin with a hook to grab the reader’s attention and provide background information on the text. End with a thesis statement that summarizes your argument.

6. Write the body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a specific rhetorical device or strategy used by the author. Use evidence from the text to support your analysis , and explain how the device contributes to the author’s overall purpose.

7. Write the conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. End with a thought-provoking statement or call to action.

Tips for coming up with ideas and choosing a topic include picking a text with a clear purpose and audience, as well as thinking about your own interests and how the text relates to your life or field of study. When you’re trying to figure out what the text is about, it can help to mark up the text with notes about key points and rhetorical devices. Look for patterns in the language, like repetition, metaphor, or allusion, to figure out what kind of rhetorical device is being used.

To write a good rhetorical essay, you need to organize and structure the essay . Use the four parts of a rhetorical essay as a guide to organize the essay and make an outline with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should give background information about the text, grab the reader’s attention, and end with a thesis statement that sums up your argument.

In the body paragraphs, you should focus on specific types of rhetoric and use textual evidence to back up your analysis. The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement . It should end with a strong statement or a call to action.

Rhetorical Essay Examples

To better understand the use of rhetoric in writing, it can be helpful to examine examples of effective rhetorical essays. Here are ten inspiring examples of rhetorical essays:

1. Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King Jr.

2. “The Gettysburg Address” by Abraham Lincoln

3. A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift

4. “Sinnersin the Hands of an Angry God” by Jonathan Edwards

5. Politics and the English Language” by George Orwell

6. “The Declaration of Independence” by Thomas Jefferson

7. “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All” by Anne-Marie Slaughter

8. “I, Too” by Langston Hughes

9. The Death of the Moth” by Virginia Woolf

10. The Souls of Black Folk” by W.E.B. Du Bois

Each of these examples shows how rhetoric can be used well in writing. For example, Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” makes a strong case for civil rights and peaceful protest by using strong images, repetition, and persuasive language. In his “Gettysburg Address,” Abraham Lincoln uses parallelism and imagery to honor the Civil War soldiers and promote the idea of a united country.

When looking at these examples, it’s important to figure out what rhetorical tools the authors used and how they fit into the essay as a whole. For example, in “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All,” by Anne-Marie Slaughter, she uses personal stories and statistics to show that working mothers need more help and a better balance between work and life. By looking at how rhetorical tools like pathos and logos are used, readers can get a better idea of how well the essay works .

A good way to learn how to use rhetoric in writing is to look at examples of good essays that use rhetoric. By looking at the main points and rhetorical devices in these essays , readers can learn more about how language can be used to persuade and sway an audience. It is important to identify the four parts of a rhetorical essay (speaker, audience, purpose, and context) and analyze how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of the essay . Students can learn the skills and knowledge they need to write their own effective and convincing rhetorical essays by looking at these examples and using them as guides.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, anyone who wants to improve their critical thinking , communication, and writing skills needs to learn how to write rhetorical essays. By understanding the main parts of a rhetorical essay, such as the speaker, the audience, the purpose, and the setting, as well as good writing techniques and the analysis of real-world examples , readers can become better communicators and more involved citizens.

To write a good rhetorical essay, you need to follow a step-by-step plan that includes coming up with ideas and choosing a topic , analyzing the text, coming up with a thesis statement, organizing and structuring the essay, and using good writing techniques. Also, it’s important not to make common mistakes like not addressing the four parts of a rhetorical essay, making claims that aren’t backed up, and not having a clear and logical structure.

By looking at examples of good rhetorical essays, readers can learn more about the power of language and the methods writers use to persuade and sway their audience. Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King Jr. and “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All” by Anne-Marie Slaughter are good examples of how imagery, repetition, and personal stories can be used to make a point.

To sum up, to be good at writing rhetorical essays, you need to be able to think critically and write well, and you also need to know what the main parts of a rhetorical essay are. By following the step-by-step instructions in this article and looking at real-world examples , readers can develop the skills they need to write effective and persuasive rhetorical essays that deal with complex ideas and add to academic discourse in their field of study.

1. What is a rhetorical essay?

A rhetorical essay is one that looks at and evaluates the ways that writers try to convince their readers. It means knowing how to use language, tone, structure, and other tools of rhetoric to get your point across.

2. How do I write a rhetorical essay?

To write a rhetorical essay, you should start by choosing a text to analyze and figuring out who the speaker, audience, purpose, and setting are. Look for rhetorical devices in the text, come up with a thesis statement, and put your essay together with an introduction , body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

3. What are some examples of rhetorical essays?

Examples of rhetorical essays include Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address,” and Anne-Marie Slaughter’s “Why Women Still Can’t Have It All.”

4. How do I choose a topic for a rhetorical essay?

When choosing a topic for a rhetorical essay, consider the author’s intent, audience, and context of the text. Choose a topic that interests you and has a clear purpose.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a rhetorical essay?

Common mistakes to avoid when writing a rhetorical essay include failing to address the four elements of a rhetorical essay, using unsupported assertions, and failing to provide a clear and logical structure.

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Master the art of crafting an impactful rhetorical essay to captivate your readers.

When it comes to expressing one’s thoughts and opinions, the art of rhetoric plays a crucial role. Whether it be through verbal communication or the written word, the power of persuasive language has the ability to sway hearts and minds, making it a powerful tool in any communicator’s arsenal. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of crafting a rhetorical essay, a form of composition that requires careful analysis, insightful interpretation, and skillful persuasion. By following a thoughtful and systematic approach, you will be able to effectively convey your message and leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Understanding the Nature of a Rhetorical Essay

An essay of rhetorical nature seeks to analyze and evaluate how the author uses various rhetorical appeals and strategies to effectively communicate their message. By dissecting the text, the writer aims to identify the key components that contribute to the overall persuasiveness of the composition. This could involve examining the author’s use of ethos, pathos, and logos, as well as the rhetorical devices employed, such as metaphor, irony, or repetition. Through a close examination of these elements, the writer can gain a deeper understanding of how they contribute to the audience’s perception and interpretation of the text.

The Importance of Pre-Writing

Before diving into the actual writing process, it is important to engage in thorough pre-writing activities. This includes reading and analyzing the text, identifying the author’s intended audience, and understanding the context in which the composition was created. By doing so, you will be able to gather the necessary information and develop a clear understanding of the rhetorical strategies employed by the author. This will also help you establish your own stance and create a solid foundation for your essay.

Understanding the purpose of a rhetorical essay

Exploring the true essence and objective of a rhetorical essay is vital for any aspiring writer. This type of essay delves into the art of persuasion, dissecting various techniques used to convince an audience of a particular point of view or argument. More than just presenting facts, a rhetorical essay aims to evoke emotions, challenge preconceived notions, and provoke critical thinking in its readers.

Unlike other forms of writing, a rhetorical essay allows the writer to express their opinions and beliefs openly. It serves as a platform for individuals to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of rhetorical strategies employed by speakers or authors in order to sway an audience. By carefully examining language choices, logical reasoning, and appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos, the writer can gain a deeper understanding of the intended message and effectively convey their own interpretations.

Moreover, a rhetorical essay acts as a tool for students and scholars to enhance their analytical skills. It encourages them to critically analyze texts and speeches to uncover the underlying motives, biases, and strategies used. By closely studying the rhetoric employed in various forms of communication, writers can sharpen their ability to identify persuasive techniques and employ them effectively in their own writing.

• Recognize the goals and intentions of the speaker or author.
• Analyze the rhetorical strategies employed to convey meaning.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of those strategies in achieving the intended purpose.
• Develop and present a well-structured argument based on the analysis.

In conclusion, understanding the purpose of a rhetorical essay goes beyond examining the surface-level techniques and strategies employed by speakers or authors. It involves delving deep into the art of persuasion, exploring the intended message, and honing one’s analytical skills. By becoming proficient in this form of writing, individuals can effectively engage and persuade their audience while developing their own critical thinking abilities.

Analyzing the rhetorical situation

When it comes to dissecting a rhetorical piece of writing, one of the first steps is to analyze the rhetorical situation. This involves examining the various elements that make up the context in which the text was produced, such as the audience, the purpose, and the speaker. By understanding these components, one can gain valuable insights into the persuasive techniques and strategies employed in the text.

Identifying the audience: The audience refers to the group of people for whom the text is intended. This could be a specific demographic, such as young adults or professionals in a particular field, or a broader general audience. Understanding the intended audience helps to determine the tone, language, and arguments used in the text.

Clarifying the purpose: Every piece of writing has a purpose, and analyzing the rhetorical situation involves determining what that purpose is. The purpose could be to inform, to persuade, to entertain, or a combination of these. By identifying the underlying purpose, one can better understand the rhetorical choices made by the author.

Evaluating the speaker: The speaker, or author, of a text plays a significant role in shaping its rhetorical elements. Analyzing the rhetorical situation involves considering the credibility, expertise, and biases of the speaker. By evaluating the speaker, one can assess their authority and understand how it impacts the persuasive power of the text.

Examining the context: Context refers to the broader circumstances surrounding the creation of the text. This includes factors such as the historical, social, and cultural background in which the text was produced. Analyzing the context helps to uncover the motivations behind the text and provides a deeper understanding of its rhetorical strategies.

By analyzing the rhetorical situation, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the persuasive techniques used in a text. This knowledge allows for a more critical and informed interpretation, enabling readers to engage with the piece on a deeper level.

Identifying the rhetoric elements

When analyzing a piece of writing from a rhetorical perspective, it is essential to be able to identify the various elements of rhetoric that are present. These elements encompass the strategies and techniques used by the writer to persuade and influence the audience. By understanding and recognizing these elements, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the art of rhetoric and the effectiveness of the writer’s message.

One key element to look for is the use of ethos, which refers to the credibility and ethical appeal of the writer. This can be observed through the author’s use of personal anecdotes, expert testimonials, or the establishment of their own expertise on the subject. The presence of ethos can lend credibility to the writer’s argument and make the audience more likely to trust their perspective.

Another important rhetorical element to consider is pathos, which refers to the emotional appeal of the writing. This can be achieved through the use of vivid language, anecdotes that tug at the reader’s heartstrings, or appeals to their values and emotions. By appealing to the reader’s emotions, the writer can evoke empathy and create a lasting impact on the audience.

Additionally, the use of logos, or logical appeal, is another element to be aware of. This can be observed through the writer’s use of evidence, reasoning, and logical arguments to support their claims. By presenting a well-reasoned and logical argument, the writer can convince the audience of the validity of their perspective and sway their opinions.

Furthermore, the consideration of tone is crucial when identifying rhetoric elements. Tone refers to the author’s attitude and approach towards the subject matter and the audience. By analyzing the tone of the writing, readers can gain insight into the writer’s intentions and how they are attempting to persuade the audience.

Finally, an important rhetorical element is the use of rhetorical devices such as repetition, rhetorical questions, parallelism, and figurative language. These devices can add emphasis, create a memorable impact, and enhance the overall persuasive effect of the writing. Recognizing these devices allows readers to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship employed by the writer.

In summary, identifying the rhetoric elements within a piece of writing involves recognizing the use of ethos, pathos, logos, tone, and rhetorical devices. By analyzing these elements, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the writer’s persuasive techniques and the effectiveness of their argument. Being able to identify these elements is essential in appreciating the art of rhetoric and becoming a more critical and discerning reader.

Developing a thesis statement

Creating a strong and effective thesis statement is a crucial step in writing a successful essay. It serves as the foundation for your entire argument and guides the reader’s understanding of your main points. In this section, we will discuss the process of developing a thesis statement that encapsulates the central idea of your essay.

When crafting a thesis statement, it is essential to clearly articulate the main argument or claim you will be making in your essay. This statement should be concise, specific, and thought-provoking, setting the tone for the rest of your paper. The thesis should also be debatable, meaning there should be room for disagreement and a potential counter-argument.

To develop a strong thesis statement, start by identifying your topic or subject matter. What is the main focus of your essay? Once you have a clear understanding of your subject, think about the main point or argument you want to make. Consider the evidence and arguments you will present throughout your essay to support this main point.

Next, condense your main argument into a single, clear sentence. This thesis statement should be direct and assertive, expressing your overall stance on the topic. Avoid vague and general statements that lack specificity. Instead, aim for a thesis that is concise and impactful.

Additionally, your thesis statement should be compelling and engaging. It should grab the reader’s attention and make them interested in reading further. Consider incorporating strong language, rhetorical devices, or compelling evidence to make your thesis statement more persuasive and memorable.

Finally, it is important to revisit and revise your thesis statement as you progress in your essay writing process. As you gather more information and refine your arguments, your thesis statement may evolve or change altogether. Be open to reevaluating and adapting your thesis statement to best reflect the content and direction of your essay.

In conclusion, developing a well-crafted thesis statement is a vital component of writing a rhetorical essay. It serves as the foundation for your argument and sets the tone for the rest of your paper. By following these steps and continually revisiting and refining your thesis statement, you will create a strong and impactful essay.

Organizing your essay outline

Structuring your essay is a crucial step in the writing process, as it helps to ensure clarity and cohesiveness in your argument. In this section, we will explore effective strategies for organizing your essay outline, enabling you to present your rhetorical analysis in a logical and persuasive manner.

Begin by identifying the key elements of the text you will be analyzing. Look for the main thesis or argument, as well as any supporting evidence or rhetorical devices employed by the author. Once you have a clear understanding of these elements, you can start crafting your essay outline.

A strong introduction is essential to grab the reader’s attention and provide context for your analysis. Use a compelling opening statement or anecdote to engage the audience, and briefly outline the main points you will cover in your essay. Remember to include a clear thesis statement that articulates your overall interpretation of the text.

Next, divide the body of your essay into distinct sections, each focusing on a specific rhetorical device or strategy used by the author. Consider organizing your analysis chronologically, examining how the author introduces and develops their argument over the course of the text. Alternatively, you can organize your essay thematically, grouping together examples and evidence that support specific ideas or themes.

Within each section, provide a clear topic sentence that introduces the rhetorical device you will be discussing. Follow this with detailed analysis and examples, using quotes from the text to support your points. Be sure to explain how each rhetorical device contributes to the overall effectiveness of the author’s argument.

Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and offering a final analysis of the text. Restate your thesis in a fresh way, and consider the broader implications of the author’s rhetorical choices. What message or impact do they have on the audience? What can we learn from the author’s techniques? End your essay with a thought-provoking statement or question that encourages further reflection.

By organizing your essay outline in a clear and logical manner, you can effectively convey your analysis and persuade your audience of your interpretation. Remember to revise and refine your outline as you go, ensuring that each section flows seamlessly into the next. With a well-structured essay outline, you will be well-equipped to write a compelling rhetorical analysis.

Using effective rhetorical strategies

Mastering the art of persuasive writing involves implementing a variety of powerful rhetorical strategies that can captivate your audience and convey your message with clarity and impact. By skillfully using these strategies, you can enhance the effectiveness of your writing and persuade your readers to see things from your perspective.

Rhetorical strategies are techniques used to persuade or influence an audience. They involve the skillful use of language, structure, and appeals to emotions, logic, and ethics. These strategies can be used in various forms of writing, including speeches, essays, and advertisements, to effectively communicate your message and convince your audience of your viewpoint.

One effective rhetorical strategy is the use of rhetorical questions. By asking thought-provoking questions, you can engage your audience and encourage them to consider your ideas. Rhetorical questions are not meant to be answered, but rather to stimulate reflection and provoke thinking.

Another powerful strategy is the use of logical appeal, also known as logos. This involves presenting a logical argument supported by evidence, facts, and reasoning. By employing logical appeal, you can convince your audience through sound and rational arguments that are difficult to dispute.

Emotional appeal, or pathos, is another strategy that can be highly effective in persuading your audience. By appealing to their emotions, you can evoke empathy, sympathy, or even anger, motivating them to take action or change their viewpoint. Personal anecdotes, vivid imagery, and touching stories are all effective tools in creating emotional appeal.

The use of ethical appeal, or ethos, is also crucial in persuasive writing. It involves establishing credibility and trust with your audience by presenting yourself as knowledgeable, reliable, and trustworthy. By demonstrating your expertise and integrity, you can gain the confidence of your readers and make your argument more convincing.

By utilizing these effective rhetorical strategies, you can effectively communicate your ideas and persuade your readers to engage with and accept your message. Remember to use these strategies strategically and analytically assess their effectiveness for each specific rhetorical situation.

Revising and editing your essay

Once you have completed the initial draft of your rhetorical analysis, it is crucial to revise and edit your essay to ensure clarity and coherence in your arguments. This stage of the writing process involves reviewing your work to identify any areas that require improvement or further development.

During the revision process, focus on examining the overall structure and flow of your essay. Consider whether your introduction effectively captures the reader’s attention and provides a clear thesis statement that sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Additionally, evaluate the development of your arguments in each paragraph and the effectiveness of your transitions between ideas.

When revising, pay close attention to the clarity and precision of your language. Eliminate any unnecessary jargon or technical terms that may confuse your audience. Instead, strive for clear and concise language that is accessible to a wide range of readers. Make sure your arguments are supported by evidence and examples, and that your analysis is thorough and well-reasoned.

Editing is an essential step in the writing process that involves checking for grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies in your essay. Carefully proofread your work for spelling and punctuation mistakes, and ensure that your writing adheres to the appropriate style guide. It can be helpful to read your essay aloud or have someone else review it to catch any errors that may have been overlooked.

Lastly, consider the overall effectiveness of your rhetorical analysis. Reflect on whether your essay successfully persuades your audience and achieves its intended purpose. Consider seeking feedback from others to gain different perspectives and to further improve your essay.

By revising and editing your essay, you can refine your arguments, improve the clarity of your language, and enhance the overall impact of your rhetorical analysis.

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