This thesis has examined the 1940 pre-convention speeches of Wendell Willkie. The primary objective of the study was to discover and examine some of the chief rhetorical strategies employed by Willkie in his attempt to overcome serious rhetorical problems, to gain the Republican party nomination, and to achieve national prominence. The study traced Willkie'e personal and political development, discussed the major issues of the campaign, and focused on Willkie's major persuasive strategies.The analysis of the strategies of 'attack' and 'unity and principle' revealed that Willkie was competent in his choice and development of issues, effective in reducing the significance of his rhetorical problems, and successful in his attempt to gain national prominence in a short period of time. One might conclude that Willkie's rhetorical choices reflected an understanding of and an adaptation to the rhetorical climate and audience in 1940.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/180752 |
| Date | January 1973 |
| Creators | Haven, Richard Paul |
| Contributors | Dorris, Celia A. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | 145 leaves ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
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