Bitzer, Rhetorical Situation

The Rhetorical Situation

  • Author: Lloyd F. BitzerSource: Philosophy & Rhetoric, 1992, Volume 25Published by: Penn State University PressStable URL: JSTOROverview: The article discusses the concept of the rhetorical situation and its significance in discourse.

Understanding Rhetorical Situations

  • Definition of Rhetorical Situation:

    • Refers to the context where speakers or writers create rhetorical discourse.

    • Requires understanding certain circumstances that define the context (e.g., speakers, audiences, occasions).

Characteristics of Rhetorical Situations

  • Rhetorical situations are specific and unique compared to general communication situations.

  • Discourse emerges in response to these situations, similar to how responses emerge from specific questions or needs.

  • Examples of historical rhetorical discourse:

    • The Declaration of Independence

    • Lincoln's Gettysburg Address

    • Churchill's Address on Dunkirk

    • John F. Kennedy's Inaugural Address

Historical and Philosophical Context

  • Lack of Focus in Rhetorical Theory:

    • Historically, rhetorical theory has not fully addressed the nature of rhetorical situations.

    • Previous theorists have concentrated on discourse and the methods of orators rather than the situations that invoke rhetoric.

Core Elements of Rhetorical Situations

  • Factors Present:

    • Persons

    • Events

    • Objects

    • Relations

  • Exigence:

    • An imperfection or urgent issue that can be addressed or modified through rhetorical discourse.

  • Audience:

    • The specific group of individuals who can be influenced by discourse and act as mediators of change.

  • Constraints:

    • Conditions that affect the process and influence the audience's reception.

Significant Characteristics of Rhetorical Discourse

  1. Response to Situations:

  • Rhetorical discourse is triggered by external situations and demands.

  1. Fitting Response:

  • Effective rhetoric appropriately addresses the exigence of the situation, providing relevant information or action.

  1. Influences Change:

  • Rhetoric functions to alter reality, thereby achieving a purpose beyond mere expression.

The Nature of Rhetorical Exigence

  • Conditions for Existence:

    • An exigence must be perceived clearly by the audience; it can be strong, weak, familiar, or novel in nature.

  • Types of Exigences:

    • Offer various degrees of urgency and potential for modification.

Audience Consideration

  • A rhetorical audience is distinct from general hearers; it must be capable of being influenced.

Constraints in Rhetorical Situations

  • Constraints may include:

    • Historical documents

    • Social practices

    • Cultural norms

    • The rhetor's credibility and expertise

Evolution of Rhetorical Situations

  • Rhetorical situations can mature, decay, or persist, dictating the timing for appropriate responses.

  • Understanding these dynamics helps navigate effective rhetorical practices.

Conclusion

  • Practical Justification of Rhetoric:

    • Rhetoric serves as a mechanism for understanding and adapting to societal changes.

    • It emphasizes addressing situations that invite discourse for substantive change.