Based on your reading of Bitzer's "Rhetorical Situation": What is his central argument? What is a rhetorical situation?; What is exigence, and how does the author generate exigence "the imperfections marked by urgency"?; and What constraints does s/he have to consider?
Intro and Part IV: What is discourse? How does this relate to rhetoric? What is his central argument?
ReplyDeleteIn the introduction and Part IV of “The Rhetorical Situation,” Lloyd F. Bitzer defines discourse as the discussion of a specific topic. Bitzer argues that the only concept rhetoricians identify in discourse is the strategy in which rhetoric is used, not the circumstances in which it was written. Understanding the rhetorical situation behind a piece will lead to greater comprehension. Rhetoric helps to communicate discourse. The relationships between the speaker, audience, and argument is the base to analyzing discourse. Bitzer argues that rhetoric would not exist without discourse because there would be no argument to discuss "hence the practical need for rhetorical investigation and discourse" (Bitzer 14). Bitzer believes the rhetorical situation should be a "controlling and fundamental concern of rhetorical theory"(Bitzer 3).
DeleteResponding to Teya's post:
DeleteI agree with the analysis on how discourse gives the argument the potential to grow and that without discourse, an argument would be standing alone without being able to make connections. It would be difficult to find the relationship between the author, argument, and audience is everyone just agreed on one thing. However, in section 3, it was mentioned that circumstances/ situation in which a text is written greatly contributes to its significance to the audience. If a text does not address a problem the readers are questioning, it'd be more difficult for them to relate. The strategy in which rhetoric is used is important, but the circumstances are just as important. If a piece is not backed up by historical context or the support of the audience, the audience might lose interest. However, if you're saying that the author can manipulate a situation and use it to his advantage in presenting his argument I would agree with that. I'm a little unclear on what you meant by the strategy in which rhetoric is used.
In “The Rhetorical Situation,” by Lloyd F. Bitzer, Lloyd states that “The presence of rhetorical discourse obviously indicates the presence of a rhetorical situation” (Bitzer 2). Discourse can be defined as a type of verbal or written discussion. Relating to rhetoric, discourse is typically existing in response to a given situation. Bitzer’s central argument is that rhetoric is more than just the art of persuasion. Bitzer believes that it is the rhetorical situation that allows discourse to exist, and urges authors and students to focus on not only what is typical to rhetoric - audience, speaker, subject, occasion - but to go deeper and think about the contexts of the situation at hand. Bitzer states that rhetorical situation is “a controlling and fundamental concern of rhetorical theory” (Bitzer 3) further solidifying his argument that a reader and an author need to look deeper into the given text to have a better understanding of what the text means.
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DeleteIn the introduction of "The Rhetorical Situation," Bitzer highlights the fact that only when a rhetorical situation presents itself can the “[rhetorical] discourse [come] into existence,” (Bitzer 2) because discourse, or the discussion of a particular topic, has to be influenced by rhetoric in order for the speaker to be persuasive in their response to the rhetorical situation. Bitzer carries this thought over to part IV by claiming that in the real world, rhetoric will never cease to exist since the need for persuasion will always be necessary (Bitzer 13). This is why Bitzer’s central argument is that the rhetorical situation should be considered a “controlling and fundamental concern of rhetorical theory” (Bitzer 3) because it creates the need for discourse which relies heavily on rhetoric.
DeleteIn Bitzer’s “The Rhetorical Situation”, it is stressed that rhetorical discourse occurs in response to a rhetorical situation, which is defined as the nature or context in which speakers or writers create rhetoric. Bitzer describes the relationship between situation and discourse through, “The Declaration of Independence, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, Churchill’s Address on Dunkirk, John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address -- each is a clear instance of rhetoric and each indicates the presence of a situation” (2). Through these examples, Bitzer makes it evident that rhetorical discourse is a means of communication of thought, such as through an address or declaration. For instance, the reason for writing “The Declaration of Independence,” a form of discourse, would be because of the rhetorical situation at the time. Furthermore, discourse is usually provoked by rhetorical situations and circumstances. Bitzer argues that theorists often ignore the significance of the rhetorical situation and its role in rhetorical theory. Without rhetorical situations, discourse would not always be possible. Bitzer goes on to explain that, “the world presents imperfections to be modified by means of discourse – hence the practical need for rhetorical investigation” (14). The world is imperfect; it presents situations in need of correction and discourse.
DeleteDiscourse is communication that can be written or spoken. Rhetoric discourse, as defined by Lloyd F Bitzer in “The Rhetorical Situation,” is the conversation about a particular argument or issue. Bitzer states that, “rhetorical discourse obviously indicates the presence of a rhetorical situation.”(Bitzer 2) The rhetorical situation and its importance , Bitzer argues, is not emphasized enough by rhetoricians and rhetoric is made up of more than just debates and persuasion. Bitzer argues that if one is able to comprehend the rhetorical situation one will be able to have a deeper understanding of a piece. The speaker, author, and audience are the starting point from which people look at rhetoric. However Bitzer says that, “typically the questions which trigger theories of rhetoric focuses upon the orators method or upon the discourse itself rather than upon the situation which invites the orators application of his method and the creation of discourse.”(Bitzer 4) Without discourse we would not have rhetoric. The rhetorical situation, “the context in which the speaker, or writers, create rhetorical discourse,” is fundamental to rhetoric.(Bitzer 1) Rhetorical Theory should focus upon the rhetorical situation, which creates discourse leading to the existence of rhetoric itself.
DeleteI agree with Carol’s post. Bitzer furthers on with rhetoric’s relevance in the real world in part three. Discussing a fake, or fictive, rhetorical situation he explains, “but the situation is not real, not grounded in history; neither the fictive situation nor the discourse generated by it is rhetorical” (11). This confirms Carol’s claim that rhetoric is only persuasive when in response to a rhetorical situation. As Bitzer explained, fake scenarios are not proper rhetorical situations, meaning the responses it receives are not rhetorical either.
DeleteVictor Iturralde
DeleteMr. Saldivar
A.P. Lang
9.15.14
In Floyd F. Bitzer's "Rhetorical Situation", Bitzer argues that rhetorical situations are part of human nature, and that although the idea of manipulation is commonly given a negative connotation, rhetoric is essential as a part of modern society. Bitzer believes "In the best of all possible worlds, there would be communication perhaps, but no rhetoric"; since there would be nothing to argue about if the world was completely flawless (Bitzer 13). Bitzer thinks that "the world really invites change", and that rhetoric is the only way that change is a possibility, so therefore to make any change in the world, rhetoric is essential. Bitzer claims that discourse, or expression of thoughts through words, is essential to solving problems and utilizing rhetoric. Bitzer says that "the world presents imperfections to be modified by means of discourse", and emphasizes that there is a "practical need for rhetorical investigation and discourse" (Bitzer 14). The world is not a perfect place, and never will be; rhetoric and discourse are necessary in order to solve any issues or create any change in the world.
In response to Victor there are common traits and ideas in Bitzers idea of exigence. Both are different individual views and ideas and that basically has the same concept and idea basis. In my piece the idea of opinion is used a lot in order to stress the importance of individuality and solving problems which seems to be a common theme in your section. Bitzer uses all of these sections to form a similar idea and meaning I feel and that causes similarities. Both of our sections are ways to solve certain problems that are arises in society and I believe that's what the purpose of this article was to demonstrate ways he problems can be solved many different ways but all give the same result.
DeleteIn the intro and part IV “The Rhetorical Situation,” Lloyd F. Bitzer continuously refers to the word discourse when talking about the rhetorical situation. Discourse can be defined as a written or spoken communication or debate. Bitzer argues that writers only focus on the argument, or discourse of their paper, rather than the rhetorical situation, or the origins and motive behind the discourse being presented by the writer. Bitzer urges throughout the essay that “the orator’s method or upon the discourse itself, rather than upon the situation which invites the orator’s application of his method and creation of his discourse.” (Bitzer 2) which shows that his main argument is not to dissect how the writers create discourse , but why the writers create discourse.
DeleteIn response to Grace’s answer:
DeleteI agree with you that understanding rhetoric situation is fundamental to understanding the piece, and also that rhetoric situation, discourse, and rhetoric are inseparable. Part I also states “so controlling is situation” that it should be considered “the very ground of rhetorical activity (Bitzer 5). I would also like to add that understanding rhetoric situation is key because it allows the reader to identify the speaker’s purpose in the framework of context. Using the example of the fishermen in Part I, if someone only hears the fishermen's words “Pull in” or “Let go” it would be meaningless to him/her. To understand these phrases, the listener must know why they are spoken and in what context. Rhetoric is a response to a situation and situation gives meaning to rhetoric.
I agree with Grace that “Rhetorical Theory should focus upon the rhetorical situation, which creates discourse leading to the existence of rhetoric itself.” Because without communication (discourse) you could not make arguments at all, which would not relate to any situation. As Bitzer says in The Rhetorical Situation “A situation which is strong and clear dictates the purpose, theme, matter, and style of the response.”(Bitzer, 10) This reestablishes Grace’s ideas that there would be no rhetoric without discourse, because “the style of response” is encouraged by a rhetorical situation that needs to be backed up by discourse.
DeletePart I: What is a rhetorical situation?
ReplyDeleteSophie Xu
DeleteRhetoric situation is the context from which rhetoric arose. Bitzer compares it to the development of the fishermen’s language on the Trobriand Islands. All the words and phrases these fishermen use pertain to fishing, because the words were created as a response to the context: the need for communication while fishing. The same goes for rhetoric. Situation and rhetoric have a cause and effect, event and response relationship. The situation “must exist as a necessary condition of rhetorical discourse” (6). An eulogy at a famed artist’s funeral requires a certain type of language, while a college commencement speech demands another. The funeral and the commencement address are the situations, the circumstance that called for rhetoric to be used. Each speech is created as a response specific to its situation and purpose, whether to commemorate a lost soul or to educate young minds. Whatever the purpose, rhetoric is a response to the situation and is used to “produce action or change in the world” (4).
For readers, understanding the rhetorical situation is vital, because it helps readers gain an idea of the speaker’s purpose and identify the type of rhetoric that is used. This in turn will help the reader comprehend the text. For writers, understanding the situation allows writers to chose the appropriate words and tools to convey meaning, and better understand why they have the urge or feel the need to write.
A rhetorical situation, according to Bitzer, is any event or environment that provokes rhetoric. This situation can be a variety of things, including a funeral, a birthday party, a business meeting, or any number of other things that might call for a speech. He believes that certain situations are more suited to certain types of rhetoric. The example he uses to illustrate this is the customs of the native people of the Trobriand Islands. Their language and their rhetoric is very practical and rooted in the physical world, reflecting their situation, which is very much concerned with concrete things like hunting and fishing.
DeleteWhen rhetoric doesn't match its situation, it often becomes baffling or sometimes even humorous. A good example of this can be found in "Dwight's Speech", an episode of the television series "The Office". In this episode, a character is asked to speak at a business conference, because he won a company award. Instead of making a speech filled with gracious, humble rhetoric, like everyone expected him to, he instead employs rhetorical devices also utilized by totalitarian dictators, like shouting, copious amounts of pathos, and allusions to war and destruction. While this example was meant to be comedic, it illustrates Bitzer's ideas well: rhetoric must fit its situation.
I agree with your explanation of Bitzer's rhetorical situation. The idea that any idea or situation can be rhetoric is hard to grasp. Yet, Bitzer himself states how the rhetoric situation can be a variety of things and some situations are more apt for different types of rhetoric.
DeleteThe miscommunication or failure to apply appropriate rhetoric to the appropriate situation is also a very appealing strategy. I feel it may not work most of the time and can allow humorous elements of the piece to be exposed, rhetoric works best when used properly as it is more convincing and persuading when taken seriously.
According to Bitzer, a rhetorical situation is the environment that brings about rhetoric. This basically means that the surroundings within a piece dictate the word choice used in the text. This is not limited to the time period in which the piece takes place, but focuses more on the physical environment revolving around the text. Bitzer uses an excerpt from a party of Trombriand Fisherman as an example of a rhetorical situation. In the excerpt the men talk by only using basic commands to tell each other what they must do to catch and retrieve their fish. The fisherman use very few words to get their points across, avoiding any filler or fluff in their brief conversations. This is mainly due to the urgency of their conversations, if they hesitate to explain any further the fish they are attempting to capture may escape. Bitzer refers to these types of conversations as “functional speech,” (Bitzer 4) in which every word spoken is vital to achieving something tangible. Bitzer writes, “The situation dictates the sorts of observations to be made;” (Bitzer 5) In other words the environment of a piece directly effects the diction and language that is shown within the text. Situation and rhetoric have a cause and effect relationship, in which the situation of the text will control the way the text is written.
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DeleteIn Bitzer's "The Rhetorical Situation", rhetoric is a "mode of altering reality" which can be seen in everyday situations, where it is used to manipulate or prove an argument (Bitzer 4). As seen in the fisherman story within Bitzer's piece, rhetoric is used as a primitive necessity. To use rhetoric, it is essential to have "context of situation" and language is developed through the rhetorical situation (Bitzer 4). The rhetorical situation occurs in the reason of the evoked rhetoric, such as the "natural context of persons, events, objects, relations, and an exigence" (Bitzer 5). The situation in which rhetoric appears is very important to the understanding of the purpose of such rhetoric. Along with this, rhetorical situation helps differentiate the reason for the rhetoric being used, such as a primitive verbal command and a formal speech. Rhetoric cannot appear without a situation because "rhetorical discourse comes into existence in a response to situation" (Bitzer 5). Rhetorical situation can be seen in everyday life, such commercials. The creator of this rhetorical situation, uses the short periods of time in between shows to prove that their product is necessary specifically to the viewer by calling attention to problems the viewer might face. By the use of the situation of rhetoric, many products are able to be sold. Rhetorical situation is the reason that rhetoric is capable of altering reality, by knowing the situation a person is capable of evoking the ethos, pathos, and logos necessary in supporting ones argument or purpose of writing.
DeleteIn Lloyd F. Bitzers “The Rhetorical Situation”, rhetorical situation is the direct information of the writing. Through the situation, a reader can find the rhetoric and Bitzer emphasizes that situation in rhetoric is necessary. One cannot exist without the other. “..This invited utterance participates naturally in the situation, is in many instances necessary to the completion of situational activity, and by means of its participation with situation obtains its meaning and its rhetorical character” (Bitzer 5). The invited utterance is the product of the rhetorical situation and this is essential rather than general information because it will affect how the writing is perceived by a reader. Direct situation affecting rhetoric and how it is viewed can be seen everywhere. Much more emotion is felt when reading something that was written because of a tragedy, for example. The context of a written piece is imperative so that both the reader and the writer can form their rhetoric.
DeleteIn response to Emilia's analysis, I agree with the idea that the different type of situations affect the way the author's use of rhetoric is viewed by the different readers. To add on the way the rhetoric is perceived, I believe the response from the reader also depends on what perspective the author has, the author's claim on the situation being talked about. "It may be important or trivial...it may be completely familiar - one of a type of exigences occurring frequently" (Bitzer 7).
DeleteIn response to Mateo Gonzalez's post, I agree with your explanation of what exactly a "rhetorical situation" is. I find it interesting that the change in diction can be so drastic from situation to situation. That change could serve to help the writer in many ways though, because it allows the writer to appeal to their audience in a more effective manner while maintaining a sense of seamlessness in style if done correctly.
DeleteBitzer used some situations that painted the picture of how important the context of rhetoric is. It provides needed insight to the reader.
I agree with Kaitlyn's point about how rhetorical situations occur every day. It doesn't matter where or why as long as there is a need to persuade someone. It is something that is used in everyday life that people don’t even acknowledge, for an example, asking parents for money to buy the iPhone 6. Children cannot go to their parents and just say “give me money,” they have to use the "natural context of persons, events, objects, relations, and an exigence" (Bitzer 5) to their advantage. The way to ask parents for money is to know what the parent wants to hear -context of person, say what the money is for – context of event, and make the iPhone seem worth it- context of object. A rhetorical situation occurs in the simplest things and the most complex things.
DeleteI agree with Emilia's point about the situation of rhetoric being very important. How it is perceived by the reader depends on how the author used rhetoric. "A rhetorical situation must exist as a necessary condition of rhetorical discourse, just as a necessary condition of an answer" (Bitzer 6). This supports the idea that the situation the rhetoric is set up in is like the question and answer for the readers. They can obtain a logical response to the author as long as the situation sets them up to do so.
DeleteBitzer defines rhetorical situation as any circumstance in which an individual must use language to control a situation. All rhetoric is spoken with a purpose. He uses a story by Bronislaw Malinowski about fisherman on a boat. In Malinowski’s excerpt, the fishermen’s language develops because of the situation. “The leader of the fishermen finds himself obliged to speak at a given moment… to respond appropriately to the situation” (Bitzer 4). The language used by the fishermen was all to serve a function, “each utterance is essentially bound up with the context of the situation and with the aim of the pursuit” (4). The rhetorical language is used in this setting because the fishermen need to hear commands and information. The rhetorical techniques used vary across the situations they derive from. A speaker would not use the same language at a best friends wedding as they would introducing the President of the United States.
DeleteFurthermore, “a speech is given rhetorical significance by the situation” (5). Rhetoric only exists in a position where one needs to persuade another through solely their language. Bitzer stresses the importance of the rhetorical situation because one must have the correct context to fully understand the rhetorical devices in a piece of literature.
This is a reply for Sophie. I agree that the rhetorical situation is vitally important to rhetoric as well as rhetoric discourse. The situation is what leads to discourse, and a world without discourse would mean no rhetoric, no need for persuasion. However I would have to disagree with the idea that rhetoric is a direct effect of rhetorical situation. It was confusing, because you discussed the cause and effect being the rhetorical situation and rhetoric, as well as discourse and rhetoric. Bitzer discusses that rhetorical discourse is something that is caused by a rhetorical situation. This makes the cause the rhetorical situation and the effect the discourse, not the rhetoric. The rhetoric itself comes from the discourse in a piece of writing or in a conversation.
DeleteIn response to Chloe, I agree with the point that all rhetoric is spoken with a purpose. Rhetoric is how an author speaks or writes in a way that persuades the audience and gets the point across clearly and accurately; so rhetoric without a purpose would not even exist. Also I agree with that fact that rhetoric changes as situations do - like you mentioned with the wedding speaker versus the president. Bitzer mentions that “a speech is given rhetorical significance by the situation,” (Bitzer 5) solidifies your point that in different situations, the rhetoric is going to change and be significant to a certain situation, although it may not be significant in another scenario.
DeleteIn response to Mateo, I agree with what you are saying about each word spoken being vital to achieving something. I also think the story was a great example of a rhetorical situation. You state that if the fishermen hesitate to explain any further the fish they are trying to capture will escape. I took this as us being the fish and the writers being the fisherman. Every word a writer writes to try to get us to believe and trust his argument is vital to persuade us, the readers. If writers have to much fluff they might lose the readers in their argument. This example was helpful in understanding that the surroundings in a piece dictate the word choice used in the text.
DeleteTo Mateo:
DeleteI agree with your ideas of the functional speech and how it is used, but how does functional speech establish rhetoric? In part three of this piece it discusses each part of a rhetorical purpose, ethos, pathos, and logos, and how each play their role in the establishment of rhetoric. I feel the situation created by the author is only supported by ethos, pathos, and logos, and this could enhance your argument specifically.
Part II: What is exigence, and how does the author generate exigence "the imperfections marked by urgency"?
ReplyDeleteIn part II of "The Rhetorical Situation," Bitzer claims that "there are three constituents of any rhetorical situation: the first is the exigence; the second and third are elements of the complex, namely the audience to be constrained in decision and action, and the constraints which influence the rhetor and can be brought to bear upon the audience" (Bitzer 6). Exigence appears to be the first part of the rhetorical triangle or situation in which the author or writer is trying to appeal and argue. Exigence is the argument the author makes in his writing. How the author generates exigence is through the next two pieces of the rhetorical situation being the audience and the exigence's constraints. "Suppose a man's acts are injurious to others and the quality of his acts can be changed only if discourse is addressed to him; the exigence - his injurious acts - is then unmistakably rhetorical" (Bitzer 7) The audience pushes forth the author's exigence as they develop some emotional tie to the argument and the strength of the argument grows. The constraints in which Bitzer claims are the third element of the rhetorical triangle, incorporate the logical reasoning and facts to the argument to validate it. "Besides exigence and audience, every rhetorical situation contains a set of constraints made up of persons, events, objects, and relations which are parts of the situation because they have the power to constrain decision and action needed to modify the exigence" (Bitzer 8). The exigence needs to build up momentum by appealing to the audience's emotions which providing the terms and logic in which push forth the validity of the author's argument therefore generating exigence.
DeleteI see what you're trying to say, but I disagree with it. Although this may sound like hair-splitting, Bitzer seems to be saying that exigence always exists, but it doesn't become present in the minds of the audience until the speaker introduces it. They're not creating it, but seem more to be "publicizing" it. Consider his statement that exigence is "a
Deletedefect, an obstacle, something waiting to be done (Bitzer 6)". This suggests that it's existence needs to be promoted more, or argued for or against by the speaker, rather than generated by them.
In this peace Bitzer defines for the reader what Rhetorical situations are. Bitzer does so by breaking it I to three portions, mainly exigence. Exigence is defined by Britzer as "an imperfection marked by urgency" what that was interpreted as to me and people I worked with was a person or authors different opinions. Exigence is used to convince someone of a certain opinion often through the use of ethos. Britzer says "...An exigence is not rhetorical when it's modification requires merely one's own action or the application of a tool, but neither requires not invites the assistance of discourse." This was understood as exigence is as a tool to help authors connect with their audience with conversation and discussion through writing. With every rhetorical situation there is a exigence which is an "organizing principle" which means there is one opinion that basis all discussion and forms different ideas and opinions to form which is the purpose for rhetorical rhetoric. Another important factor in exigence is the audience who acts as mediators of change who listen to the different exigences and determine what is right and what is wrong. Britzer uses exigence by stating his opinion of what rhetoric is and how it is used in the furthering the way writing should be done in order to make a convincing strong opinion , and get others to support this opinion.
DeleteBitzer's piece "The Rhetorical Situation," talks about the important factors needed for a rhetorical situation and puts a large focus on the first step to form a rhetorical situation, what he calls exigence. Through the context of the piece, exigence are the claim(s) made by the speaker in the work itself. Bitzer explains how the way exigence is presented to the reader affects the way the claim is processed through the readers mind. "The exigence...may be strong or weak depending upon the clarity of their (rhetor or other person) perception and the degree of interest in it" (Bitzer 7). The claim(s) made by the rhetor in his/her piece of work must be strong so any reader could understand those claims and hopefully get their own opinion about that same rhetorical situation affected by the rhetor's claim. The exigence generated by the author has to come from a rhetorical situation that could have different perspectives from different people. That situation itself cannot be something that cannot be argued about. "An exigence which cannot be modified is not rhetorical...death, winter, and some natural disasters" (Bitzer 6). The situation has to cause controversy from events such as cultural/social (feminism/gay marriage) so then each individual exigence made from different people can be developed and shared to others.
DeleteExigence, as defined by Lloyd F. Bitzer is one of three components of any rhetorical situation. It is the context of a situation and the possible arguments and opinions that surround it. Bitzer claims that "In any rhetorical situation there will be at least one controlling exigence which functions as the organizing principle: it specifies the audience to be addressed and the change to be effected." (Bitzer 7) This is interpreted to say that the exigence is meant to be the focal point in which any discourse can stem. It is argued by utilizing the three forms of rhetor: ethos, logos, and pathos.
DeleteBitzer generates exigence by crafting an argument based on exigence itself; he states that "In almost any sort of context, there will be numerous exigences, but not all are elements of a rhetorical situation – not all are rhetorical exigences.” (Bitzer 6) He uses this claim to prove that a proper rhetorical exigence can be “modified” by the use of discourse – a counter argument. Bitzer presents hypothetical exigences such as a man committing “injurious acts” to display that situations such as these that require discourse are the only ones that could be rhetorical. Bitzer appeals to his audience with a strong opinion backed by logos.
I agree with Sandra's post, because even in Section I, Bitzer indicates the importance of how rhetorical situation affects the way in which a reader perceives it. This relates to when Sandra says, "the way exigence is presented to the reader affects the way the claim is processed through the readers mind." and I completely agree. Rhetoric affects every person in a different way because of each individual’s experiences and personal thoughts which further proves that rhetorical situation is necessary.
DeleteIn Bitzer's excerpt "The Rhetorical Situation" Bitzer uses different terms explain the meaning of rhetoric and one of those terms is exigence. According to Bitzer exigence is "an imperfection marked by urgency; it is a defect, an obstacle, something waiting to be done, a thing which is other than it should be" (Bitzer 6). Overall Bitzer is trying to communicate that exigence isn't always rhetorical because some exigences are not controllable like natural disasters. Exigences that are rhetorical can be modified or changed out of necessity or want. Bitzer also states "An exigence is rhetorical when it is capable of positive modification and when positive modification requires discourse or can be assisted by discourse" (Bitzer 7) meaning a rhetorical situation is not independent because it depends on exigence as the "controlling function" (Bitzer 7) but only is used when necessary or positive. Exigence is not independent because it depends on the actions of discourse.
DeleteI agree with Ethan, specifically when he mentions that exigence can be the focus of which any discourse can stem. This makes sense because authors try to craft their pieces on a certain idea. However, I would take it further and say that exigence can be the purpose of an entire argument, as many writers devote their energy to addressing an urgent and relevant topic. This is so when President Kennedy was assassinated, and many writers went into a frenzy covering this event.
DeleteThis is a response to Ethan Phipps. I agree with everything you're saying and I like that you answered the main part of the question in the first sentence. Good use of textual support to show what exigence is. Also I liked how you broke down the different parts of the rhetorical triangle that the author used to prove his point. I think you're right when you say exigence is meant to be the focal point and that other issues can branch off from it.
DeleteIn “The Rhetorical Situation” Bitzer expresses exigence to be “a defect, an obstacle, something waiting to be done, a thing which is other than it should be” (Bitzer 6). He also states that not all exigencies will be elements of a rhetorical situation. “Furthermore , an exigence that can be modified only by means other than discourse is not rhetorical” (Bitzer 7). Exigence is what is being argued in a rhetorical situation, something people can have different opinions on. Therefore, as Bitzer states, something like death would be a non rhetorical example of exigence. Bitzer generates an example of rhetorical exigence with the example of the man’s “injurious acts” (Bitzer 7). The man’s acts would call for discourse over whether people believe them to be okay or not. Every rhetorical situation requires at least one exigence.
DeleteIn response to Sandra's post, I agree with your claim that the way a writer presents exigence affects how it is viewed and interpreted by the reader. I also found it interesting how you said a rhetorical situation must be controversial. Only then can more people contribute their arguments and ideas about the situation; after all, rhetoric is the art of persuasion. This also relates to my sections about how rhetorical situations present numerous opportunities for rhetorical discourse. It is vital that the rhetorical situation be debatable and provoking.
DeleteIn response to Will, i like what you're saying in your response, and it really explained "exigence" well to me, who has never read that section of the article. I like the continuous development on the ideas and examples related to exigence, as well as the response as a whole. The only arguably negative thing i noticed was that the elimination of first person and the mentioning of your group members in the second sentence could possibly make your overall argument stronger since it would (to me at least) seem more reliable since it would be more trusted and valued when you are not making it seem like you're only writing what you are because that is what your "group" said. Nothing else wrong with it in terms of contents ("peace" should be "piece" in sentence one). Keep up the good work though Will this is an excellent response.
DeletePart III: What is the role of audience, and what constraints does s/he have to consider?
ReplyDeleteIn “The Rhetorical Situation,” Bitzer stresses that the role of the audience is to demand and validate information, while the author has to consider the relevance and quality of his or her argument. In the text, Bitzer alludes to the period of hysteria shortly after President Kennedy was assassinated. By stating that ”...it was necessary to eulogize the dead President; the public needed to be assured that the transfer of government to new hands would be orderly,” (Bitzer 9) Bitzer depicts the audience as a crazed and knowledge-hungry people. Although the masses did not have a say in these types of governmental affairs, they still demanded that they be informed of who would be the next president. This exposes the audience’s role of craving information. Further, Bitzer goes on to state that any argument presented by any author is available to the audience to critique. He believes that “The exigence and the complex of persons, objects, events, and relations which generate rhetorical discourse…are [therefore] available for scrutiny by an observer or critic who attends to them.” (Bitzer 11) Any need for information or arguments are presented in one way or another to the people. Anyone who chooses to analyze a rhetorical piece of work is free to do so, as the audience validates an author’s argument. Moving on, Bitzer also designates a constraint for authors. He states that ”To say that a rhetorical response fits a situation is to say that it meets the requirements established by the situation…which is strong and clear dictates the purpose, theme, and style of the response.” (Bitzer 10) Bitzer stresses that an author’s response has to be relevant to the context of the situation. Context is vital to rhetoric, as it establishes information which the author will use to prove his or her point. The audience’s perpetual need for information and authors’ need to recognize relevance, results in a neverending cycle of rhetorical statements.
Delete“The Rhetorical Situation” by Llyod F. Bitzer states that the audience needs to be aware of the setting during the writing/speech. Because “rhetorical discourse is called into existence by situation,” (Bitzer 9) the context of the speech/writing changes every time. The argument has to fit the background of the audience, but it is also up to the audience to know the setting everything is taking place. The audience needs to be “keyed to a…historic fact” (Bitzer 9) and know why the speech was taking place. The “historic fact” is the background information that is essential for the audience to connect back to and reason. Through the connection, it develops the desired emotional appeal the author worked for. The the point of writing/saying something is to make an impact on the audience’s view. An impact could only be made if the audience already has a basic knowledge of the situation for the author to change.
DeleteI am replying to Nicolas Robledo's post. Your analysis immediately answers both questions clearly. The quotes you used was a great example of how the audience holds a heavy influence on how the author should convey his/her message. I also think you are right, if an author failed to state the relevance of a situation, the audience could not validate the argument or the speaker which dismantles the entire rhetoric process.
DeleteIn Llyod F. Bitzer's "The Rhetorical Situation", Bitzer argues that the author needs to present information/arguments that are relatable to the audience, and the audience’s role is to validate or give purpose to the arguments being established. Rhetoric “invites a fitting response...[such as the] Gettysburg Address..[which] was [the] most fitting response to the” (Bitzer 10) Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War and this gave it relevance, since historical context builds the foundation for arguments. Thus, in order for there to be a valued rhetorical piece, the audience must see it as something that replies to their topics of concern. As Blitzer mentions, “Franklin D. Roosevelt’s brief Declaration of War...exists as a response to one clear exigence easily perceived by one major audience” (Blitzer 11). In other words, the author must validate the audience in terms of providing a solution to a situation, complex or simple. The audience would then have to consider the solutions that are offered and decide how to respond to the author’s responses. The audience gets to determine whether the rhetoric maintains its purpose because it addresses a persisting problem, or if the rhetoric has decayed and lost its purpose. When situations “recur and, [when the audience] experience situations, and the rhetorical responses to them” (Bitzer 13) this creates a relationship between the author’s rhetorical piece who has the answers the audience seek, and the audience, who holds the power to determine the relevance of the author’s rhetorical piece.
DeleteI agree with Joann Tam's post, in Bitzer's "The Rhetorical Situation" it states "it seems clear that rhetorical is situational" (Bitzer 3). To achieve the goal of rhetoric, a person must be aware of the setting that a piece is written in to fully understand the purpose of the piece, as you stated. The context of the situation is necessary for the audience to connect back to the argument. A audience that has no knowledge of a topic would not be able to understand a very complex paper on this topic, but with the background knowledge a person is able to form an opinion and respond to such topic.
DeleteThis is in reply to Joann Tam:
DeleteI definitely agree with Joann because she uses textual evidence that supports everything she states which validates her as the author of her response. Another reason why I agree with he is because her statement regarding rhetorical discourse being called into existence by situation and that the sole purpose of writing/saying something is to make an impact on the audience's view.
In response to Lina's statement, I agree with the idea that the author must relate their argument to the audience and suggest a solution that the reader would support. However, I do not think that the audience must validate the argument, that is the author's job. An audience can read through a piece and decide if they support it or not but that does not make the argument invalid. Only the author is able to strengthen the argument and it is entirely in their hands whether they reach their audience or not.
DeleteIn “The Rhetorical Situation”, author Lloyd F. Bitzer discusses the importance an audience plays in establishing proper rhetoric. With an audience in mind, a writer determines their topic of writing, one that pertains of interest to the audience, and a fitting response, one that satisfies their current needs. In Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Declaration of War speech Bitzer explains, “…the message exists as a response to one clear exigence easily perceived by one major audience, and the one overpowering constraint is the necessity of war” (11). The constraints, or what guides the author away or towards a certain topic, are due to the audience’s wishes for war. With the assassination of Kennedy, “…the public needed to be assured that the transfer of government to new hands would be orderly” (Bitzer 9). An audience’s needs are kept in mind when writing. Knowing the public’s current unrest, goals of the responses were to reassure the public.
ReplyDeleteMarcia, I agree that the audience plays an important role in establishing proper rhetoric. Since the audience is the group being persuaded and rhetoric is about persuasion, it only makes sense that the audience would have such a influence.
DeleteAlso, Bitzer states that "the world invites change" (13) and the only way for that change to be effectively executed would be through "properly address[ing] a mediating audience" (Bitzer 3). Which again, proves the influence an audience can have.
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ReplyDeleteBrittany Lieber
ReplyDeleteIn Lloyd F. Bitzer's "The Rhetorical Situation" Bitzer establishes the need for the audience to make a connection to the topic in order for proper rhetoric to be provided. Bitzer determines that although rhetoric may be established in a fictitious piece, the rhetorical aspect of the piece is still legit. This can be established through ethos, pathos, and logos, and in a fictitious piece, pathos maybe the most important because it is validating the audience of the piece. If the audience is not caring about the piece, it will not become successful thus in fiction, the audience must absolutely care about the piece because the logos and ethos may not be truly legitimate. This is demonstrated by "The speech of a writer in a novel or play may be clearly required by a fictive rhetorical situation - a situation established by the story itself" (Bitzer 11). In the case of fictive rhetoric, the author must be creating a piece that an audience can relate and connect to because that is the main means of communicating his purpose, given that the logos and ethos is really not present in that case as dominantly as the pathos.
In Lloyd F. Bitzer’s The Rhetorical Situation the role of the audience is to recognize the situation to create their response, but also be assured by the rhetoric displayed. In the text Lloyd expands on the example of President Johnsons address, he states, “Any student of rhetoric could have given odds that President Johnson, in a major address, would speak to the significance of these events, and he did;…” (Bitzer,10) By talking about the substantial current international events, Johnson gives the audience an expected speech for the situation. The audience recognizes the crisis and appreciates Johnsons topic of discussion for the current time. By treating the situation, the speech leads the audience to feel at ease and be assured. This assurance gives the speech a purpose. The large purpose of the speech influences the audience and once again puts a situation along with the rhetoric.
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