Ancient Rhetoric: From Aristotle to Philostratus (Penguin Classics) - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0141392649 ISBN 13: 9780141392646

Publisher: Penguin Classics, 2017

Synopsis

A new and original anthology that introduces the key writings on rhetoric in the classical world, from Aristotle to Cicero and beyond.

Classical rhetoric is one of the earliest versions of what is today known as media studies. It was absolutely crucial to life in the ancient world, whether in the courtroom, the legislature or on ceremonial occasions, and was described as either the art of persuasion or the art of speaking well. This anthology, edited by Thomas Habinek, brings together all the most important ancient writings on rhetoric, including works by Cicero, Aristotle, Quintilian and Philostratus. Ranging across such themes as memory, persuasion, delivery and style, it provides a fascinating introduction to classical rhetoric and will be an invaluable sourcebook for students of the ancient world.

About this title

From the Back Cover:

'What is more appealing to ear and mind than a speech enriched with wise opinions and impressive language? What so powerful or impressive as the ability of a single man to affect the emotions of the people, the scruples of the judges, the sober deliberation of the senate, all by means of a speech?'

Rhetoric, or the art of persuasion and speaking well, was the lifeblood of the classical world, whether in the courtroom, in politics or in ruling. This new anthology brings together the most important ancient writings on the art of rhetoric from classical Greece and Rome, including works by Cicero, Aristotle, Quintilian and Philostratus. Ranging across such themes as memory, delivery and style, they show us the enduring power of language to move, to convince, and to win.

Translated and edited by Thomas Habinek

About the Author:

Thomas Habinek (Translator)
Thomas Habinek is Professor of Classics at University of Southern California. His most recent books include The World of Roman Song: From Ritualized Speech to Social Order and Ancient Rhetoric and Oratory. He is an editor of the journal Classical Antiquity and editor of the book series Classics and Contemporary Thought.

About this edition

• Publisher: Penguin Classics
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 0141392649
• ISBN 13: 9780141392646
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 336