COM 3920 Theories of Public Communication

3 Hours

Provides an overview of historical and contemporary theories regarding the functioning of rhetorical discourse in public settings. Classical readings and oral projects focus on rhetoric as a persuasive tool by which orators sway audiences and emerge as leaders in the public realm. Contemporary readings and oral projects focus on rhetoric as a means of creating and sharing a social reality via a variety of channels: public speaking, electronic media, and acts of public display.