Rhetorical Criticism: A Study In Method

by Edwin Black

Winner, Speech Communication Association Award for Distinguished Scholarship

This is a book that, almost singlehandedly, freed scholars from the narrow constraints of a single critical paradigm and created a new era in the study of public discourse. Its original publication in 1965 created a spirited controversy. Here Edwin Black examines the assumptions and principles underlying neo-Aristotelian theory and suggests an alternative approach to criticism, centering around the concept of the "rhetorical transaction." This new edition, containing Black's new introduction, will enable students and scholars to secure a copy of one of the most influential books ever written in the field.

198 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 1978

About the author

Is an American syndicated columnist and journalist. He specializes in human rights, the historical interplay between economics and politics in the Middle East, petroleum policy, the abuses practiced by corporations, and the financial underpinnings of Nazi Germany.

Reviews

[Zachary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Black's writing in this volume is so much clearer than most academic writing that, paired with his revolutionary ideas, it is no surprise that this book caused such a sea-change in the field of rhetorical criticism. Obviously much has changed still in the field since this book came out, but it is convicting and refreshing to dive into the foundational texts of my discipline. I still have a lot to learn, and Black's lucid writing is remarkable for its effective instruction even as he argues. This is certainly not for everyone--those not involved in the rhetorical/communication field are likely to find it rather dry--but for its target audience it is a gripping and engaging text.

[Brady · Rating 4 out of 5]

First few chapters were interesting. Black essentially calls out the entire field of rhetoric for being so off-base in its methodology. I can certainly understand why this book was considered a watershed moment. That said, the last few chapters were quite dry, but thankfully, quite short as well.

[Sara R]

Who needs Aristotle anyway