Examines three types of "energy" of form as form relates to content: "dynamos," potential energy; "energeia," that energy which sustains movement toward an end; and "ergon," that energy which is associated with perfected habit. Uses some examples from contemporary political rhetoric to illustrate this analysis. (JMF)

Argues that Lincoln modeled certain major speeches on a chiasmus, and that this stylistic device governs the integration of form and function in Lincoln's presidential rhetoric. Argues that the chiasmus reveals that Lincoln saw himself as called by God to fulfill a special messianic mission. (MS)

Surveys literature published since 1960, dividing it into four categories of critical analyses. Evaluates current knowledge of presidential rhetoric and suggests directions for future research in this field of study. (PD)

An American observer's report on contemporary House of Commons debating and debaters. Discusses (1) traditional influences that come from the adversarial nature of parliamentary debate and its implications for communication style; and (2) contemporary influences, including education, that come from the changing characteristics of members of…

Examines Churchill's use of archetypal metaphors in his speeches from 1930 to 1945. (MH)

Analyzes the keynote address to the 1976 Democratic Convention. Attributes its success to the skillful handling of the following dual and conflicting purposes: pleasing two unlike audiences; fulfilling the role expectations imposed on keynoters while avoiding triteness; and affirming Blackness and womanliness while avoiding stereotypes. (PD)

Reviews the career of Prime Minister Thatcher and her participation in the campaign for her election. Identifies the five most salient elements in her image and within the general context of contemporary political communication in Britain: cultural identification, accent and word choice patterns, Tory message, sex, and sense of conviction. (JMF)

Presents a revised version of the keynote address to the Central States Speech Association (1977) by Marie Nichols, Professor of Speech Communication, Emerita, University of Illinois. (MH)

Compares the ritual of the American presidential nomination acceptance speech to the rhetorical ritual of the Puritan jeremiad to discover both similarities and differences. Examines each as a means of interpreting the meaning of the past and unifying the audience around a shared vision of the future. (JMF)

Examines the invocation delivered by Bishop William P. Cannon at the Carter inauguration and contends that the invocation departs from previous inaugural prayer rhetorical forms and may indicate serious implications for both religious and political persuaders. (MH)

Analyzes Jimmy Carter's success in the 1976 presidential primaries in terms of his rhetorical style based on Max Weber's concept of charisma and Ernest Bormann's theory of fantasy and rhetorical vision. The combination of Carter's charismatic message and the country's social fantasies produced his election. (JMF)

A study of the type and frequency of speeches given by blue collar workers. (CH)

Points out that textual authenticity of speeches has been a constant concern of speech communication scholars. Examines the procedure, personnel, and philosophy employed to record the proceedings and debate in today's British House of Commons. Concludes with a comparison of "Hansard's Official Report" and the "Congressional…

Examines Biblical apocalyptic theory and secular apocalyptic literature. Proposes a new theory of apocalypticism in secular public discourse derived from those two major theories. Provides examples of apocalypticism in secular public discourse. (MM)