Key Concepts in 21st Century Rhetoric offers you a fresh, grounded, and accessible introduction to the theories and methods of contemporary rhetorical studies. Although often linked to verbal trickery, hot air, and manipulation, rhetoric is a powerful art focused on understanding and analyzing public discourse. Rhetoric can teach you how to think critically, reason logically, argue competently, speak eloquently, and write cogently. You can use rhetorical skills to help you thrive in your other academic courses, in your relationships, in your community, and in your career. What’s more, your rhetoric course can improve your capacity to notice and engage with influential public discourse. As you learn to engage with a text—like a speech, film, or picture—you will learn how to better engage with others.