Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

CHAPTER FIFTEEN – EPIDEICTIC ADDRESS

OverviewDiscusses the Classical Greek and Roman approaches to structuring persuasive speeches Explains how to combine classical and contemporary approaches in developing introductions and conclusions for persuasive speeches Describes the various organizational patterns for persuasive speeches

Commemorates an occasion

The scene is very important

Emotion is important

Aristotle said these type speeches are to praise or blame

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

EPIDEICTIC ADDRESS

They share two characteristicsEach informs the audience about the event

Provide info about the event’s importance

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

EPIDEICTIC AND INFORMATIVE SPEECH

In a commemorative speech there is persuasion involved

Epideictic addresses have more emotion than logic

In an epideictic speech the importance of the event is addressed

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

EPIDEICTIC AND PERSUASIVE SPEECH

Eulogies pay tribute

Is a story about a person’s life May be impromptu More likely prepared Many times a family member Stranger makes remarks of known figures Positive points presented Use personal memories if available

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

TYPES OF EPIDEICTIC ADDRESS

Light-hearted events about various topics

Presenters have prepared remarks

Award recipient usually speaks briefly

Acceptance speeches should offer thanks and show humility

Appropriate language is needed

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

AWARD CEREMONIES

Events: retirements and weddings

Typically brief

Pre-planned

Usually a person, can be an object

Celebratory, conversational language

Can be humorous

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

TOASTS

Remember context

Connect honoree to event

Note the event’s importance

Use appropriate emotion

Focus not on speaker

Connect topic and event

Brevity is a plus

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

GOALS AND STRATEGIES

Epideictic oratory is an important aspect of contemporary life. Although it shares characteristics of both informative and persuasive speeches, it is its own genre.

Chapter Fifteen - Epideictic Address

FINALLY…