Description
Book SynopsisThis book provides students, researchers, and practitioners of speechwriting with a unique insight in the theory, history, and practice of speechwriting. The combination of theory and practice with case studies from the United States and Europe makes this volume the first of its kind. The book offers an overview of the existing research and theory, analysing how speeches are written in political and public life, and paying attention to three central subjects of contemporary speechwriting: convincing characterization of the speaker, writing for the ear, and appealing with words to the eye. Chapters address the ethics and the functions of speechwriting in contemporary society and also deliver general instructions for the speechwriting process. This book is recommended reading for professional speechwriters wishing to expand their knowledge of the rhetorical and theoretical underpinnings of speechwriting, and enables students and aspiring speechwriters to gain an understanding of speechwriting as a profession.
Trade Review“Speechwriters have hoped for a long time to see a book like this appear in print. Speechwriting in Theory and Practice's 13 chapters are grounded in a combination of academic perspectives on the evolution of rhetoric and persuasive speech, alongside a close study of how speechwriters and speakers collaborate, in the real world, to prepare remarks for delivery. … Speechwriting in Theory and Practice fully acknowledges this fascinating continuity in rhetorical practice over the centuries … .” (Neil Hrab, Vital Speeches of the day, vsotd.com, June 26, 2019)
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Introduction: The Case for Speechwriting
Chapter 2 Speechmaking in the 21st Century
Chapter 3 The Beginning of Speechwriting
Chapter 4 Research and Theory on Speechwriting
Chapter 5 The Rhetorical Canons of Speechwriting
Chapter 6 Genres of Speechwriting
Chapter 7 How Speeches are Written
Chapter 8 Characterizing the Speaker
Chapter 9 Writing for the Ear
Chapter 10 Writing for the Eye: Pictures, Visions, and PowerPoint
Chapter 11 The Ethics of Speechwriting
Chapter 12 The Functions of Speechwriting in Contemporary Society
Chapter 13 The General Steps in the Speechwriting Process
