The Rhetorical Triangle

The Rhetorical Triangle

For each piece of writing we read, you need to be able to understand and apply the rhetorical triangle. Find examples of ethos, pathos and logos in the work. Be sure to answer the questions below.

After reading Naylor’s essay, complete the following

1.  Find D.I.D.L.S. in the piece (see handout). Be sure to not only give specific examples for each part (diction, imagery, etc.), but also answer the questions regarding mood and tone.

2.  Apply the rhetorical triangle to the piece, especially identifying the use of ethos, pathos, and logos.

3.  Answer these questions:

·  In her first two paragraphs, Naylor discusses language in the ABSTRACT. How are these paragraphs connected to her stories about the word nigger? Why do you think she begins the essay this way? Is this INTRODUCTION effective or not? Why?

·  Look back at the last two sentences of Naylor’s essay. What is the EFFECT of ending on this idea?

·  Go through Naylor’s essay and note which paragraphs discuss the racist uses of nigger and which discuss the nonracist issues? How do Naylor’s organization and the space she devotes to each use of the word help Naylor make her point?

4.  Answer the following five questions: (we will use these questions the rest of the semester when we read essays, editorials, etc.)

·  What is the central argument? (Focus on what the person is really trying to get across.)

·  How is the central argument organized/structured? Consider the notes from Everything’s An Argument. What type of argument is it? How do you know?

·  How is the central argument supported? Can you identify any ways other than the use of pathos, ethos, and logos (i.e., analogies, anecdotes, examples)?

·  Is the argument effective? Why or why not? Support your answers with specifics from the text and explanations. For example, if you say it is effective because the author uses pathos, why is that effective for this essay?

·  Do you agree with the author's position? Why or why not?