The History and Theory of Rhetoric Chapter 5

Study Notes

Cicero's Five Canons of Rhetoric

Inventio: The process of discovering persuasive arguments.
Dispositio: The effective arrangement and organization of arguments.
Elocutio: The selection of appropriate language for delivering a speech.
Memoria: The ability to remember and recite a speech accurately.
Pronuntiatio: The dignified and controlled delivery of a speech, encompassing voice and body language.

Quintilian's Structure of Judicial Speeches

Exordium: Introduction designed to engage and prepare the audience to listen.
Narratio: Presentation of essential facts needed to understand the case at hand.
Confirmatio: Provision of evidence supporting the claims made in the speech.
Confutatio: Refutation section addressing and countering opposing arguments.
Peroratio: Conclusion that reinforces the main arguments and the overall strength of the case.

Cicero's View on Eloquence and Wisdom

Eloquence must be united with wisdom for effective oratory.
Eloquence without wisdom lacks substance, while wisdom without eloquence is ineffective in influencing others.
Cicero believed that eloquence rooted in wisdom contributes to the foundation of civilization, highlighting the importance of personal character.

Hermagoras of Temnos

Significant figure in Roman rhetoric who classified judicial arguments into three categories: conjectural, legal, and juridical.
Developed a method for argument analysis that distinguished between "thesis" (general premise) and "hypothesis" (specific conclusion derived from the thesis).

Seven Circumstances by Hermagoras

Method of analysis framed around covering all aspects of a topic through questions: who, what, when, where, why, in what way, and by what means.
This approach informs the "5 W's" used in modern journalism and investigations, promoting thorough examination of subjects.

Humor in Rhetoric

Orators must balance humor with dignity, ensuring respect for audience sensibilities.
Humor should not undermine the serious aspects of a speech or target sensitive topics.
Cicero emphasized the importance of avoiding becoming a mere entertainer or buffoon while incorporating humor.

Qualities of Sublime Writing (Longinus)

Longinus emphasized emotional impact as a measure of great writing.
Identified five sources contributing to sublimity: vigor of thought, inspired emotion, effective use of figures, adequate style, and proper arrangement.

Description

Explore Cicero's five canons of rhetoric with this flashcard quiz. Define each canon: Inventio, Dispositio, Elocutio, Memoria, and Pronuntiatio. Test your understanding of their significance in the realm of effective communication.