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A rhetorical analysis of the 1940 pre-convention speeches of Wendell Willkie

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.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/180752
Date January 1973
CreatorsHaven, Richard Paul
ContributorsDorris, Celia A.
Source SetsBall State University
Detected LanguageEnglish
Format145 leaves ; 28 cm.
SourceVirtual Press

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