Ancient GreeksAncient GreeksHistory of Rhetoric

Something Remarkable Something Remarkable HappenedHappened6th-4th Century B.C.Demokratia

◦(demos=people; kartos=political power)

Athenian citizens (birthright) decided:◦Go to War◦Send Ambassadors◦Raise / Lower taxes◦Convict / Acquit the accused

Ancient Agora The Ancient Agora (The Agora was an open "place of assembly" in ancient Greek city-states. Early in Greek history (900s–700s BCE), free-born male land-owners who were citizens would gather in the agora for military duty or to hear statements of the ruling king or council) of Athens is the best-known example of an ancient Greek agora.tonioneill.blogspot.com/

Rights of CitizensRights of CitizensIsegoria: Equality in the agora:

assembly

500 Athenians gathered (not all spoke)

5th C: Rhetor ◦ (Someone who introduces legislation into the

assembly)4th C: Rhetor

◦ (Expert on politics)Later: Rhetor

◦ (One skilled in public speaking)

Origins of RhetoricOrigins of RhetoricEmpedocles, 6th C philosopher,

poet, magician

Two Sicilian rhetoricians: Tisias & Corax

Both wrote a handbook of rhetoric

◦Story of Corax & Tisias

Greek Theater