Paper Prompt (45 pts.)

Prompt as presented in Poulakos's syllabus: "A 5-6 page paper discussing the ways in which some rhetorical concepts function within the play that you will be assigned." --> 45/200 points

Prompt as particularly designed for you, Symposiasts: With the text explicitly in mind (and the context of its writing implicitly so), write a 5-6 page paper (with standard margins) about how the following terms play/interplay in Plato's "Symposium":

1) elenchus: aggressive argumentative exchange and cross-examination.
2) enargia: clear, vivid description that acts to bring a thing or situation before the eyes.
3) aetiologia: giving a cause or reason.

These terms (and longer definitions of them) can be found in Richard Lanham's excellent little reference book "A Handlist of Rhetorical Terms." If you are or intend to be a COMMRC major, you may want to acquire your own copy. Otherwise, you can view my copy during my office hours. Please email me to let me know you're coming to flip through it.

You MUST write on at least two terms, but will be rewarded accordingly for writing thoughtfully on all three terms. Remember that it will serve you well to refer to the Poulakos and Poulakos textbook, especially the sections on Plato. You may also see "in's" for such related terms as "logos", "dissoi logoi", &c. However, you should focus most of your analytical attention on the above two/three terms. Your paper is due Wed, March 29, WITHOUT EXCEPTION. You must bring the paper to class yourself and on time, as I will subtract just as many points from the paper as minutes you are late turning it in.

Grading Criteria: You'll be evaluated on the quality of your ideas and the soundness of your thesis and argument(s). Grammar and spelling are not in and of themselves a grade, but poor grammar and inaccurate spelling affect meaning and can sometimes effect one you don't intend; therefore, points will be deducted when awkwardness or ambiguity arise from an error. Be not discouraged, though, from employing a little playful irony.

Good luck!