Please read every post very carefully (twice if needed). There may be a lot of important information in each post.
You will read all of the speeches listed at the bottom of this post. Take notes on the main argument, important points, and examples of effective rhetoric. For each text, provide the following (You will need to use Google to research biography and historical context):
- Information about the author--a few sentences. (Use Google.)
- The historical context of the speech. What was going on in America at the time the speech was given? Google the date of the speech. Then google the time period. For example, "Important historical events in 1801 America" (Jefferson's speech).
- A quick summary of the speech (a paragraph or two; paragraphs should be at least seven sentences).
- The main argument or arguments (approximately three, but will vary depending on the speech).
- An explanation of the structure/organization of the speech and why it is effective (one paragraph).
- Supporting points (at least three).
- Examples of effective rhetoric (at least three). Explain why effective.
- Three connections (synthesis) to events happening today in America and/or around the world.
- Create five questions about the text (as if you were a teacher). Also include the answers. If an "opinion" question, state your own opinion. Answers need only be a sentence or two.
- Thomas Jefferson: "We are All Republicans; We Are All Federalists. https://www.tomrichey.net/uploads/3/2/1/0/32100773/thomas_jefferson_first_inaugural_address.pdf https://avalon.law.yale.edu/19th_century/jefinau1.asp Due February 13, 2023.
- Some background/context for Jefferson's speech: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/12487/adams-vs-jefferson-birth-negative-campaigning-us https://www.thoughtco.com/election-of-1800-deadlock-broken-1773859 Due February 16, 2023. I should clarify that reading and taking notes on this particular article is optional. Knowing the background and context for Jefferson's speech is helpful. As a college student, the information in this link will help you better understand Jefferson and American history.
- Frederick Douglass: "The Hypocrisy of the Nation Must Be Exposed" https://www.historyplace.com/speeches/douglass.htm Due February 21, 2023.
- Carrie Chapman Catt: "The Woman's Hour Has Struck" https://www.americanrhetoric.com/speeches/carriechapmancattthecrisis.htm Due February 27, 2023.
Use the following post to help you better understand and analyze political rhetoric: https://scholarmulhern.blogspot.com/2018/05/ideasthemessubjects-in-presidential.html
Remember that you are required to do all the assignments (you are a college student). Not all work in this class is graded. Type all assignments--MLA Format, print them out, and keep them in your binder for the semester; they could be collected at any time for a grade. Create electronic backup copies of these assignments on your laptop computer. Always save your work in case I ask for a particular assignment at any time in the future.
