Examples of Rhetoric

Examples of Rhetoric

Rhetoric is everywhere we go and is in a multitude of forms from TV commercials to posters.  The main purpose is often to convince a person to join a group or buy a product.

I have seen many brightly colored posters around campus encouraging students to take part in events or join organizations.  These posters often include promises of free t shirts or free food.  Posters asking students to audition for musicals promise students do not need very much previous background and promise that students will have good times while involved in the musical.  I have received many emails from Greek Life encouraging me to rush for a sorority, promising me I will make close friends and may gain power.  TV commercials combine the best of words, images, and music, such as those pesky infomercials.  One such infomercial is the one for the PillowPet.

However, the art of rhetoric is not new.  During both of the World Wars, short phrases combined with powerful images are highly memorable examples of rhetoric.  The Committee on Public Information was created to convince Americans to support the First World War; it was so successful support of the war grew into hatred of the Germans.  This committee created the infamous “I want you” poster.

  In the same manner, the War Production Board utilized the “Rosie the Riveter” posters to convince women to participate in the war effort at home in factories, on farms, etc.

Rhetoric comes in many forms, from short, to-the-point posters, to long, eloquent speeches, such as those given by people in positions of high power.  However, it all still serves the same general purpose: to make you believe in a position or product.