Analyzes George Hansen's apologetic rhetoric from the perspective of a generic, "paranoid-style" of discourse to show why the Congressman was able to defend his character to the satisfaction of nearly one-half of his constituency. Uses the Hansen case to illustrate the development and function of a rhetorical genre in a given historical context.…

Employs Kenneth Burke's pentad to examine rhetorical choices made by former U.S. Congressman George Hansen as he dramatized two situations: his felony conviction and his subsequent reelection bid. Suggests that Hansen's rhetoric was largely effective because it resulted in substantial identification with the voters of Idaho's Second Congressional…

Examines Jesse Jackson's rhetorical strategy of functionalizing conflict among divisive Democrats during the 1984 national convention. Applies conflict theory to Jackson's convention address, which serves as the basis for this rhetorical analysis. (JD)

Argues that the vice presidency is a traditional female role and that nominees must undergo a sublimation process during their candidacy. Analyzes an apparent aberration in public talk about vice presidential candidates and notes the similarity in rhetorical "rules" impacting the candidacy of both Geraldine Ferraro and Dan Quayle. (KEH)