Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline
Introductory Paragraph
State the presenter’s name and general purpose of the speech.
End with a thesis that directs the logic and sets the boundaries of your rhetorical analysis.
Section One: Audience Analysis
Who is the audience for this presentation?
What decisions did the presenter make in terms of audience?
Look at word choice and key phrases here. Why would this speaker use certain terminology or refer to certain events or historical contexts?[unique_solution]
Section Two: Delivery
How does this speaker deliver this speech?
Is this formal or informal?
In what environment is the speech given? Don’t just think about the immediate environment here. What is happening politically, socially, technically, whatever applies here?
Address these questions when analyzing how and why a speech is delivered in a certain way.
Section Three: Appeal Analysis; Connection with the Audience
How does the presenter use pathos, logos, or ethos to connect with and persuade his or her audience?
Focus on important imagery and language.
Is anything repeated? Why would the presenter repeat this? Does this repetition have a particular effect or purpose? Does this repetition allow a certain connection with the audience? If so, what is that connection and how is that connection possible?
Analyze the dynamics here between the audience and the speaker. What makes these connections work?
Conclusion paragraph
What is the most important, persuasive message of this speech? Remind us of the most important connections the speaker makes with his or her audience.
Why is it important for this audience to think about the major ideas of this presentation or speech?
What is the most effective rhetorical technique this presenter utilizes? How does this add to the impact of the overall, main idea of the presentation?