Defining Rhetoric / The Significance of the "Hearer"

I think the definition of Rhetoric as outlined in the reading is of great importance and of practical value. Rhetoric is so often misunderstood. Aristotle's definition here brings the power and significance of rhetoric back to place. With this definition one can emphasize to the students how a knowledge of rhetoric and logic can help them to write more focused and persuasive essays. Here, rhetoric is defined as the art of persuasion using the available means. "Available means" can be interpreted, I believe, as all available means. With this operataive definition instructors can help their students explore just how rich the field of available means is - the many forms/devices/tools they have at their disposal when trying to persuade others.

In addition to the richness of the definition, I find Aristotle’s emphasis on the audience to be of significance. In a sense, he seems to be saying that the “hearer” is the critical and focusing element in the persuasive event, if I can put it that way. I think this notion holds relevance in the writing of argumentative and persuasive essays. The writer much focus on the audience and develop the argument around the needs and concerns of the audience.