Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics – 120+ Unique Ideas

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

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Looking for the right rhetorical analysis essay topic can be a tough challenge for some people!

It’s a well-established fact that for such essays, you need to have an excellent grip on the topic you choose.

For that purpose, we have created a comprehensive list of rhetorical analysis essay topics, so you can pick the topic that matches your interest perfectly. 

Before coming to the topic ideas, let’s briefly discuss what is a rhetorical analysis essay.

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  • 1. Introduction to Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing
  • 2. Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics
  • 3. How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?
  • 4. Professional Tips to Write Rhetorical Analysis Essay Fast
  • 5. Elevate Your Analytical Skills with Rhetorical Analysis Essay Questions 

Introduction to Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing

In a rhetorical analysis essay , a writer deeply analyzes a work of literature, art, or film, takes a stance, and thoroughly evaluates the purpose of the original content.

The goal is to ensure effective delivery to the audience.

Having said that, a rhetorical analysis essay finds out how effective the message of the original content was. And how the author or speaker uses rhetorical advice and strategies to convey their message.   

Now, let’s move on to the handpicked list of topics! 

Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Being aware of a student’s academic struggles, we have gathered some interesting topics for your rhetorical analysis essay needs. So if you are looking for rhetorical essay ideas, you’ve landed at the perfect place! 

Choose the best rhetorical topics from the list below and draft a compelling essay.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.
  • “The Revenant” by Michael Punke.
  • “Witches' Loaves” by O. Henry.
  • “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain.
  • “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand.
  • “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson.
  • “Yes Please” by Amy Poehler.
  • “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee.
  • “Fight Club” by Chuck Palahniuk.
  • “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School

  • “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie.
  • “Beloved” by Toni Morrison.
  • “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer.
  • “Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller.
  • “An Enemy of the People” by Henrik Ibsen.
  • “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley.
  • “Young Goodman Brown” by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
  • “The Waves” by Virginia Woolf.
  • “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston.
  • “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Middle School

  • "Yes, Please" By Amy Poehler
  • "The Revenant" By Michael Punke
  • The Primary Themes In "Alice's Adventures In Wonderland"
  • "Huckleberry Finn" Rhetorical Analysis
  • "Witches Loaves" By O'Henry
  • Discuss My Philosophy for a Happy Life by Sam Berns.
  • The Painted Veil.
  • Analyze Romeo and Juliet.
  • Analyze the “The Power of Introverts” by Susan Cain.
  • Amy Poehler. “Yes, Please.”

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

  • “Antigone” by Sophocles.
  • “The Birthmark” by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
  • “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller.
  • “Dubliners” by James Joyce.
  • “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck.
  • “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury.
  • “A Yellow Raft in Blue Water” by Michael Dorris.
  • “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls.
  • “The Tempest” by William Shakespeare.
  • “Song of Solomon” by Toni Morrison.

Non-Fictional Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay

  • “Mini Habits: Smaller Habits, Bigger Results” by Stephen Guise.
  • “The Ethics of Belief” by William Kingdon Clifford.
  • “Easter Island's End” by Jared Diamond.
  • “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” by Jonathan Edwards.
  • “Traveling Mercies” by Anne Lamott.
  • “A nation among nations” by Thomas H. Bender.
  • “Guns, Germs, and Steel” by Jared Diamond.
  • “The Price of Inequality” by Joseph Stiglitz.
  • “The Spirit Level” by Kate Pickett and Richard G. Wilkinson.
  • “The Status Syndrome” Michael Marmot.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About Speeches

  • “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King, Jr.
  • “Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King, Jr.
  • Inaugural Address of President John F. Kennedy.
  • Emma Goldman’s Address to the Jury.
  • League of Nations Final Address by Thomas Woodrow Wilson.
  • “Every Man a King” by Huey Pierce Long.
  • “The Evil Empire” by Ronald Reagan.
  • “Mercy for Leopold and Loeb” by Clarence Seward Darrow.
  • “A Time for Choosing” by Ronald Reagan.
  • “The Struggle for Human Rights” by Anna Eleanor Roosevelt.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Movies

  • Manhattan Project.
  • Jurassic Park.
  • The Phantom of the Opera.
  • Rhetorical analysis of Almost Famous.
  • A Streetcar Named Desire.
  • Rhetorical analysis of Romeo + Juliet.
  • Rhetorical analysis essay on Man of Steel.
  • Rhetorical analysis of Macbeth.
  • Wuthering Heights.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for 2023

  • “An Irish Airman Foresees His Death” by William Butler Yeats.
  • “The Epic” by Alfred Lord Tennyson.
  • “Shakespeare’s Sonnets” by William Shakespeare.
  • “The Rape of the Lock” by Alexander Pope.
  • “England in 1819” by Percy Bysshe Shelley.
  • The Price of Inequality by Joseph Stiglitz
  • “The Price Of Inequality” By Joseph Stiglitz
  • "Cri De Coeur” By Romeo Dallier
  • "Traveling Mercies” By Anne Lamott
  • "A Nation Among Nations"

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Analyze Poe's Poetry, “The Raven.”
  • A favorite poem written by William Shakespeare.
  • Analysis of James Joyce’s Ulysses.
  • Martin Luther King Jr.’s last speech.
  • Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.
  • Clifford's "The Ethics Of Belief" Summary And Analysis
  • "Easter Islands' End" By Jared Diamond
  • "Success Strategies” Analysis
  • Jonathan Edwards’ Sermons
  • "Guns, Germs, And Steel” By Jared Diamond

Literary Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • “I Am Prepared to Die” by Nelson Mandela
  • Gettysburg Monologue in Remember the Titans
  • “Full Power of Women” by Priyanka Chopra
  • Speech from Finding Forrester
  • Red’s Parole Hearing from Shawshank Redemption
  • The movie industry.
  • The insider.
  • Enough of the movie.

Funny Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Maximus’ Speech to Commodus from Gladiator
  • “Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator” by Tim Urban
  • Harvard Graduation Speech by Donovan Livington
  • Obama’s Final Farewell Speech
  • Pink’s VMA acceptance speech
  • Do you love your family members or not?
  • Do all people grow old?
  • A rhetoric analysis of Coca-Cola’s logo colors
  • What is your opinion of prequels and remakes?
  • Payment of college athletes

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The lottery vs. the hunger games
  • Non-fictional novels and fictional novels
  • President Obama’s speech at the inauguration compared to that of President Trump
  • Religious texts and their rhetorical composition.
  • Medicines vs. natural remedies
  • Social sciences vs. humanities
  • Economic upliftment vs. better standard of living
  • Compare movies based on Stephen King’s works versus his novels
  • Hurricanes vs. tornadoes
  • Football vs. basketball

Argumentative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics 

  • Political Speeches and Rhetoric
  • Advertising Influence on Consumer Behavior
  • Climate Change Communication
  • Social Media Persuasion
  • Rhetoric in Gun Control Debates
  • Fake News and Rhetorical Techniques
  • Environmental Activism and Rhetoric
  • Healthcare Debates and Persuasion
  • Rhetoric in Civil Rights Movements
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Literature

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How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

The first thing in any writing that attempts to grab the reader’s interest is an engaging topic. Every writer aims to make his writing readable and exciting for the audience. 

Coming up with an interesting and engaging topic for your essay can be a tough job. The following are some tips to consider while selecting the topics for your rhetorical analysis paper.

Deliberate your Interest

The fundamental trick of making writing impressive and exciting is to focus on the topic of your interest. Before you start writing a rhetorical analysis essay, try to pick the topic that catches your attention and interest. Also, ensure that it has scope for research and writing.

Choosing something not to have any broad scope or data will not be an ideal topic for your essay.

Do not force yourself to write about a topic that seems popular and promising but not impressive. At least find a rhetorical question that interests you and has good research opportunities.

Reflect on your Knowledge

The second important thing to consider while choosing analytical essay topics is that you have little knowledge about them. Selecting something entirely unfamiliar will not help you. 

Remember that you need to provide insight into the writing style of the author while doing the analysis. Word choice also depicts your strength. Gather knowledge about the rhetorical devices and literary critics used in the work, which you can discuss and explain in your essay. 

Most of the time, you decide to pick topics you have discussed in class. Reflect on the level of your knowledge before finalizing your options.

Do Background Research

Another vital trick to consider while picking the topic is to do background research. You can compile a list of topics, which seem captivating. After that, narrow down the list and select the final topic by researching the topic’s available information.

Do not forget to make notes of the background research. In case you forget the points while writing your essay, you will have the notes for reference.

Get the Suggestions of your Instructor

After going through all the above options, if you cannot make a decision. Prepare a list of suitable topics and ask your instructor to provide you with suggestions. 

It is much better than contemplating on your own. You will have a fixed path to walk on, and you will research the points presented in your paper.

Professional Tips to Write Rhetorical Analysis Essay Fast

Students always look for tips and tricks to make their academic assignments perfect. Below are some professional tips gathered by the writers at MyPerfectWords.com to help you write your essay in no time:

  • Identify the target audience to choose a good topic for your rhetorical essay.
  • Define the purpose of the work chosen. Grab your reader’s attention by drafting a catchy opening for your essay.
  • Provide a structure to the content by drafting an excellent  rhetorical analysis essay outline . The outline should divide your information into the introduction,  thesis statement , main body, and conclusion sections.
  • Use simple sentences. The strength of a rhetorical essay is the clarity of the content that comes from using simple sentences.
  • Avoid using narrow terminologies. Make sure that the vocabulary used compliments the theme and context of the content.
  • Gather information from credible sources. Use references from journals, articles, books, and research papers to make the content of the essay authentic.

Elevate Your Analytical Skills with Rhetorical Analysis Essay Questions 

Queries are present in rhetorical analysis essays, meant to help the writer. These questions aid the writer in further sharpening their writing proficiency.

As a plus, the questions serve the purpose of motivating writers to become actively involved in understanding the outlook of a rhetorical essay.

  • What methods do you plan to employ to engage your readers?
  • Does the conclusion of the argument resonate with your audience?
  • How has the author employed stylistic devices within the narrative?
  • Defining satire: How has the author used it, and what impact does it have
  • How does the author build credibility, evoke emotions, and use logic in the text?
  • Do cultural or historical references in the text support the author's argument?
  • Do repeat words or phrases for emphasis in the text have a noticeable impact?
  • Does the tone impact the author's credibility, and how?
  • How is the audience likely to receive the message?
  • How has the author engaged the audience in their discourse?

To conclude, writing a rhetoric paper can be challenging. It is suggested to take a professional’s help for your academic writing assignments and not risk your grades.

To get professional assistance, get help from the expert analytical essay writing service at MyPerfectWords.com. Our qualified writers draft 100% original content for the students and guarantee better grades. 

Visit our legit essay writing service  now and push your essay writing game to new heights.

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Nova A.

Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

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200 rhetorical analysis topics for students in 2023.

rhetorical analysis topics

The first thing to note when writing anything on rhetorical analysis is that the essay requires you having a wide and in-depth knowledge about the specific topic you’ll be basing your essay on. A good mastery of rhetorical essay topics entails the ability to write effectively.

Sometimes, the challenge looks like not knowing where to begin. But, understanding that a rhetorical analysis essay requires the writer to deeply and accurately analyze a piece of work and make a plausible argument with supporting evidence about it will give you an edge when crafting and choosing a topic.

However, rhetorical analysis topics are majorly predominant in topics associated with the arts but are also not limited to it. Topics can be based on literature, movies, billboards, popular culture, ads, speeches, and even ordinary human conversations.

Aside from understanding what rhetorical topics are, having ample information about any selected topic is crucial as it helps to develop sound rhetorical analysis ideas. Here are some topics you can base your rhetorical analysis essay topics on.

Rhetorical Essay Topics to Choose From

In any rhetorical essay, what the writer does is highlight a problem, carry out extensive analysis on the listed problem to make a strong-base argument on the subject matter.

A rhetorical essay isn’t complete without sound backup evidence to the highlighted problem. Carrying out an essay writing of this form requires you to have done thorough research on whatever you will be writing on.

Knowing how to choose smart topics for rhetorical analysis isn’t enough to write the essay, there must be the existence of extensively done research as this enables the writing to come fully alive. Rhetorical analysis topics list can look like.

  • Do social media encourage low productivity in young adults?
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Shonda Rhimes’s How to Get Away with Murder
  • Obama’s first presidential speech
  • A textual analysis of Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life
  • Analysis of Dove ’s beauty Ads over the last 5 years
  • A Feminist look at Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own
  • Importance of complex themes in American TV shows and Movies
  • Analysis of the Instagram aesthetics and what it entails
  • The role of symbolism in Literature and art piece
  • The work of representation in Popular Culture
  • TV shows: That’s what I Like and Here’s Why you should too
  • The implication of Horror movies on middle and preschoolers
  • Do Smartphones encourage low productivity in Young Adults or not?
  • The impact of Diversity representation in Hollywood
  • A cultural exploration of Beyoncé’s Lemonade
  • Madam CJ Walker, Diversity beauty-representation
  • Explicit sexual exploration: the Hip Hop culture
  • Purity culture an offspring of Rape culture
  • Social exploration of the movie adaptation of Les MisĂ©rables
  • Does Social media obscure reality or not?
  • Rhetorical analysis: Mom blogs and the role they play within the society
  • The Hidden Reality of Foodbanks in the American system
  • Welfare mom, bad mom?
  • Analyze the political implications of George Orwell’s Animal Farm
  • The unsettling effect of Dan Fogelman’s This Life
  • Homeschooling, the bane of many high school students.
  • The impacts of gaming on preschoolers
  • How PBS for Kids has changed the Parenting game
  • The Role of the Erotica: The poems by E. E Cummings
  • The absurdity of the Afterlife

More Topics on Rhetorical Analysis

There are varieties of different kinds of rhetorical analysis topics that it is unlikely that one can run out of ways to craft rhetorical analysis topics for any essay at all.

Since the majority of these rhetoric topics are mostly within the arts, there’s a wide range of sources and inspiration to draw your essay topic from. This is because art is an interesting field that keeps on giving.

These topics can be relevant for high school and for college students. Here are a handful of rhetorical analysis example topics to consider for rhetorical analysis.

  • A comparative analysis of non-fictional novels and fictional novels
  • Analysis: Obama’s Farewell speech
  • Rhetorical analysis of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre
  • The Failure of Charity, Classism, Victorian era, the folly of Individualism: Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist .
  • Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and Joyce Cary’s Mister Johnson : an Anthropological exploration
  • The realism of 11th century Scotland and how it’s portrayed in William Shakespeare’s Macbeth
  • The Surrealism of the 20th-century art and Literary explorations with that era
  • F.Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and how it’s an indictment to the “American Dream”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room and Another Country
  • Why Movie adaptations can never measure up to Books
  • The social and economic implications of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
  • The story of Leonardo da Vinci and the Monalisa painting
  • Painting, Artistry and how Paul CĂ©zanne’s art interrogates the subject of late-blooming
  • What the use of mostly women for domestic Ads suggests
  • How new Hollywood producers and showrunners address the issue of inclusivity and diversity in TV.
  • What the use of the omniscient narrator in books suggests
  • The Monalisa painting: Why is it Talked about so much?
  • The rhetorical device in D.H Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover
  • This is why best-seller books are called best-sellers
  • Why kids avoid watching the news at all cost
  • How the presence of social media impacts mental illness negatively
  • The Role of Tv and Popular in promoting Misogyny and Misogynoir
  • A call to Love: the recurring theme within James Baldwin’s works
  • How reality Tv shows obscure actual reality
  • How racism permeates Langston Hughes I, Too
  • What is the distinction between Symbolism and Imagery
  • The recurring effect of Misogyny in Malala Yousafzai’s real-life experiences
  • Why documentaries on Minimalism should be encouraged
  • Minimalism: a direct response to Late Capitalism
  • The wide distinction between Liberalism and NeoLiberalism

Rhetorical Situation Essay Topics for 2023

Before embarking on choosing any essay topic in a rhetorical situation, you must first understand the role of rhetoric in writing. Good rhetorical analysis essay topics aim to compel action through oral, written, visual, and sound forms. Rhetorical analysis compels the reader or the present audience to reassess their perspectives based on what you are saying or have written.

A good rhetorical analysis essay topic primarily seeks to capture the base attention of the reader or audience. One of the most common situations where rhetorics come in handy is in the political field.

However, rhetorical situation essays are impassioned, affective and are intended to capture the emotion of the reader or the audience; luring emotion is its basic and most tactical style for a call to action.

  • How the legislation on Birth Control pills has resulted in the untimely death of Women in rural areas
  • The rise of inflation and its resulting consequences in low-income homes
  • Was capitalism not okay enough? How the pandemic has displaced even more households
  • How does Popular Culture contribute to the continuous subjugation of women
  • Rape, teen pregnancy and the delegitimization of birth control pills: How they all conjure to control women’s bodies
  • Television is helping us understand the complexities of human lives
  • How the epidemic of drug abuse and its prevalence affects the lives of young Americans in the Deep South
  • Gun Control: Why we should pay attention to guns rather than women’s bodies
  • How lack of access and poverty is affecting homeschooling for young Americans
  • Paying low-income workers below minimum wage is a late capitalist concept
  • Gentrification: how it’s displacing people from their communities and homes
  • Capitalism is the main reason why millennials can’t afford to buy a house
  • The capitalist undertones of the “black to office” maximum
  • The Vernacular of Fatphobia in American Popular Culture
  • This is why America isn’t Post-racial
  • Myth: The Post-racial American Society
  • Why the rhetoric “The Future of Remote Work is Lonely” is a Myth
  • The Fatphobia of the American Wellness Culture
  • How Homeschooling is Demoralizing Teachers
  • Navigating various identities: the reality of the immigrant household
  • The Big lessons from Covid era: the diminishing returns of Hyper-productivity
  • What it means to be displaced within a Pandemic
  • Rhetorical Analysis of the Work Culture
  • The Unrealized myth of Self-care culture
  • The US Women as Social safety nets
  • Analysis of how Email became Work
  • What the Pandemic has taught workers about Unionism
  • The insidious nature of work culture and how it contributes to Burnouts
  • How Publishing is promoting Diversity and Inclusivity
  • Want it means to live within a pandemic as a low-income worker

30 Rhetorical Analysis Example Topics

The challenge that students often face when asked to write a rhetorical essay is the problem of how to craft a topic that best conveys their thoughts as well as that which they can grasp easily and have adequate available and accessible information on.

There are so many researchable ideas to write on; the hitch is often crafting your topic into something capable of inciting attention and encouraging conversations.

This is because, in rhetorics and persuasive writing, the rhetorical analysis topics for essay are also of crucial importance as much as the content. Here are some easy rhetorical analysis topics.

  • Why is Disneyland referred to as the Happiest Place on the Planet Earth
  • Why free Sanitary items is essential in every public space
  • The impact of Hip Hop in growing the Feminist Consciousness
  • Ted Talk: How it gives and encourages voices
  • Why Some blogs become Influential within a short period
  • The Myth of Consistency is Key
  • How Access is Key
  • How Shame culture emerged from Respectability Culture
  • Calling Survivors of Abuse Victims is Derogatory
  • How Speaking up exposes Survivors to more Harm
  • Analysis of Cancel Culture and Social Media Justice
  • The Importance of Commercials on Tv
  • How Commercials promote Falsehood
  • The impacts of Colorism and the Issue of Color Complex
  • A Room of One’s Own : The coming of Virginia Woolf before her time
  • A Rhetorical Analysis of Reality Tv
  • This is how Commercials can be more Relatable
  • How Relatability Tv impacts us
  • The importance of Inclusivity, Diversity, and Representation in Popular Culture
  • The Therapeutic effect of Representation
  • The Therapeutic effect of Yoga and Meditation
  • Why Low-income Workers should be exempted from Tax
  • The Ripple Effect of the Internet on Young Adults
  • Where the realistic depiction of Tv begins and ends
  • An Existential analytical approach to the works of Sylvia Path
  • The Rhetorical strategy in Frederick Douglas’ Memoir
  • Rhetoric as style in Martin Luther King Jr.’s I Have a Dream
  • Why the Bob Dylan Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016 was deserving
  • Award Culture is slowly Killing Creativity
  • A Historical approach to Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales

Ideas on Rhetoric Research Paper Topics

Every writing within academia hinges on the effective use of rhetorical situation essay topics; this is because the basis of everything done within academia is to impact ideas through the use of language and this language is usually persuasive in nature even while it seeks to educate.

For university students, it’s most likely very rare that you can run away from rhetoric research paper topics during your school year, in fact, it’s a prerequisite while in school.

It comes in the form of assignments, research, and term papers. If you are looking for topics, there are a variety of good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on. Below is a list of rhetorical analysis assignment ideas.

  • An Analysis of the Rhetorical Device implored in Beowulf
  • A Case study of Contemporary Popular Culture
  • The political and social implications of 90’s Hip Hop
  • A Comparative Analysis of Tv shows and Movies
  • The Futility of the American Dream as explored in F.S Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
  • The Symbolic exploration of “The Green Light” in The Great Gatsby
  • The Impact of Technological Innovation on American Student’s attention span
  • The Misogyny of the American Entertainment Industry
  • Structural Racism: The Mother of Gentrification
  • The Growing Concern of the Broken American Childcare System
  • The Triumph and the Bold Rhetorics employed in Diversity Tv
  • Restructuring: Why Diversity, Inclusivity, and Representation should be Championed
  • Purity Culture: A social construct that seeks to control women’s body
  • The representation distinction in the movie adaptation of Push and the book
  • A Comparative Analysis of Digital Literature and Traditional Literature
  • Innovation: The growing effects of Technological advancement
  • Late Capitalism: Self-care culture as a tool
  • The need for Inclusivity in the discussion of Beauty Culture
  • American Gun Culture and how it perpetuates greater harm
  • Domestic Violence, Abuse: The Battered Woman Syndrome
  • Affirmative Action: A Tool for Subjugation and Intellectual Relegation of the Minority Communities
  • Race Relations: The future of the American System
  • The Intrinsic effect of the exploration and promotion of interracial marriage on American popular Culture
  • Obesity: The distinction between Fatphobia and a need for Medical Attention
  • The Evolution of Identity Politics within the American System
  • Diversity Higher: Why America Needs a quick Racial intervention
  • A Comparative Study of 90s Hip Hop Culture and early 2010s Hip Hop
  • Rape Culture, Victim Blaming: The need to listen to Survivors
  • The Explicit Way American Hip Hop Explores Abuse and Misogyny
  • The Institutional Bias of the American System

Rhetorical Argument Essay Topics

When writing an argumentative essay, rhetoric is employed as the tool to not just convey thoughts and opinions but also to capture the interest of the audience or reader(s).

In any rhetorical argument essay, the writer must employ ethos, pathos, and logos as this enables the writer to navigate the topic better. For every form of rhetorical argumentative essay, there has to be a thoroughly carried out research, an understanding of the audience, a solid thesis statement, and the use of a writing style that captures attention.

The basis of an argumentative essay is that it must contain persuasive elements, without that, the argument isn’t complete. Here are some rhetorical argument essay topics to look into while writing your essay.

  • Can Drug Abuse be Contained by Legalizing and Regulating certain Drugs?
  • High-end and Fast fashion, how does it contribute to the Unhealthy lifestyle in our environment
  • Does a Democratic system have any significant drawbacks?
  • Why working moms and nursing moms should be given more workplace privilege
  • Why Maternal paid leave should be legalized
  • Is Cyberbullying capable of affecting mental health?
  • Should Diversity Higher, Affirmative Action and Inclusivity be made mandatory?
  • Does Feminism obscure the need for women to lash out at their fellow women?
  • Is Religion really the Opium of the Masses as Suggested by Karl Max?
  • Are there significant drawbacks to marrying off of a Dating App?
  • How Social Media Fame negatively impacts one’s real-life experiences
  • Is the presence of Artificial Intelligence going to lead to human extinction?
  • How hyperactivity on Social media plays out in impacting loneliness
  • Is there a possibility of Electronic money wiping out paper money?
  • Can human society experience growth without the presence of technology?
  • Is the consistent attachment to cell phones contributing to depression and anxiety?
  • Do public cameras infringe on individual privacy?
  • Is sustainable living capable of helping us reverse Climate Change?
  • Limiting Children’s screen time, does it contribute to their academic growth?
  • Should people be encouraged to use Marijuana now its health benefits have been dictated?
  • Are Academic Stress and excessive academic workload a form of psychological torture?
  • Has homeschooling improved the nature and operation of the school system?
  • Does beauty pageantry influence the concept and idea of beauty in society?
  • Is it Ethical to demand maternity leave for fathers?
  • Is Killing a Murderer a Punishable offense?
  • Should High school children be introduced to sex education in school?
  • How does the knowledge of sex education impact high schoolers?
  • Lecturer-Student friendship: is it an ethical practice?
  • Are students supposed to bring school work back home?
  • Impromptu test within the University system: Cancelled or Promoted?
  • Does access to so much information lead to Misinformation?
  • Does homeschooling contribute to students’ anti-socialism?
  • Should College Education be made completely free?
  • Will free education make or mar the performance of the academic institution?
  • Is GPA a sound determinant of intelligence?

Visual Rhetoric Essay Topics

There are different means through which rhetoric can be employed as a communication feature. Rhetorics occur in oral form, in written format as well as in the visual display. Visual rhetoric essay topics detail effective communication that is attained through the use and analysis of visual images, this is what differentiates it from other forms of rhetorical essays.

Communication through visual presentation has been noted to be effective and visual rhetoric makes communication and understanding very easy. It occurs in movies, painting, commercials, and other forms of art exploration.

For college students, especially those majoring in media studies and visual arts, assignments usually fall under visual rhetoric essays and visual text analysis. Here are some of the topics to look at within this subject matter.

  • Analyze the impact of TV Commercials and Ads on consumers
  • A case study of a prominent Hollywood production and the visual arts involved
  • Rhetorical analysis of the emotional appeals employed in web ads
  • Dissecting the ad of a TV Commercial and its implications
  • The emotional appeal within the movie The Help and permeates the entire Movie
  • A critical exploration of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa Painting
  • The use of Lighting and Effect in Movies and what they Signify
  • The Cinematography of a Movie: A Language of its own
  • How Visual Commercials influence us more than Written Commercials
  • An exploration of the use of visuals in marketing
  • Analysis of Yellow Journalism
  • What is the most effective visual ad you’ve seen and how did it influence you towards a product?
  • How Visual ads increase people’s purchasing power
  • An in-depth analysis of effective visual campaigns
  • How TV influences our understanding of and our relation to society

Having a Hard Time Thinking of Rhertorical Analysis Topics?

Writing a rhetorical essay can be quite tasking as it requires that you embark on extensive research, digging through myriad materials in order to have a substantial essay. What is required to achieve a sound essay can really be a lot of work especially if you’re already engulfed with other activities. Nevertheless, there is the presence of fast expert writers online that offer essay writing help to you in any situation. Our essay writing service isn’t just high quality but is also very cheap. You do not just get the value of a great job, but also the promise of high grades and a stress-free and reliable service.

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Lindsay Ann Learning English Teacher Blog

70 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Secondary ELA

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May 28, 2019 //  by  Lindsay Ann //   8 Comments

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Before we get to the rhetorical analysis essay prompts (a.k.a. tons of ready-to-analyze texts at your fingertips), let’s take a time-out to lay the groundwork for understanding a rhetorical analysis essay using ethos, pathos, and logos.

Rhetoric is Defined As…

Put simply, rhetoric refers to any technique an author uses to persuade an audience.

Or, the behind-the-scenes choices an author makes to give you all the feels. 

Chances are, if you consider a text or speech to be  really good , rhetorical techniques are working like a master puppeteer to pull at your heart strings, make an impact on your brain, and get you to let down your guard because you trust the author or speaker.

That’s why political figures have speech writers.

That’s why authors spend time fine-tuning their words and sentences.

Rhetoric is important.

In addition, rhetoric goes back to the ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle, the “father” of rhetoric.

rhetorical-analysis-essay-high-school

The Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Moving on, if rhetoric is the art of persuasion, then the rhetorical analysis essay analyzes how an author or speaker creates opportunity for persuasion in his/her text.

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay involves understanding of context and occasion for writing. It also involves understanding the subject matter of the speech and intended audience.

Beyond this, noticing how the author uses rhetorical appeals and rhetorical devices to impact the target audience can help you to write an in-depth rhetorical essay analysis.

The BEST Rhetoric Topics

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As a teacher, I’m always in search of engaging texts for students to analyze. In this post, I’m sharing the best speeches, advertisements, and essays  for rhetorical analysis. You’ll never run out of rhetorical analysis essay topics again!

So, you’ll definitely want to stop right now and pin this post. 

Your future English-teacher-self will thank you. 

47 Rhetoric Examples in Speeches

The following speeches work well individually, but I’ve also tried to add value by pairing texts together.

Whether you’re analyzing rhetorical appeals such as ethos, pathos, and logos or looking at rhetorical devices, these speeches will work for discussion or as the text for a rhetorical analysis essay.

rhetorical-analysis-essay

  • Gettysburg Monologue in Remember the Titans  – Pair with “ The Gettysburg Address ” by Abraham Lincoln
  • “ Full Power of Women ” by Priyanka Chopra – Pair with Emma Watson’s speech on the Power of Women
  • Speech from Finding Forrester – Pair with “ Integrity ” by Warren Buffet
  • Red’s Parole Hearing from Shawshank Redemption – Pair with the Freedom Speech from Braveheart
  • Ending Scene from The Breakfast Club – Pair with  “ The Danger of a Single Story ” by Chimamanda Ngozi Achichi
  • Authentic Swing Speech from The Legend of Bagger Vance – Pair with  “ How Winning is Done ” from  Rocky Balboa
  • Maximus’ Speech to Commodus from Gladiator – Pair with  The Revolutionary Speech  from  V for Vendetta
  • The Natural State of Mankind from Amistad – Pair with “ Our Diversity Makes Us Who We Are ” by Michelle Obama
  • Denzel Washington’s  Dillard University Commencement Speech – Pair with “ The Last Lecture ” by Randy Pausch
  • “ Like Pieces of Glass in my Head ” from The Green Mile – Pair with “ Eulogy for Beau Biden ” by Barack Obama
  • Oprah’s  2018 Golden Globes speech – Pair with  Seth Myers’ Golden Globes Monologue  and/or  Ellen says #MeToo
  • Independence Day speech – Pair with  Aragorn’s Helm’s Deep Speech  from LOTR: The Two Towers
  • Pair  “I am Human”  &  “Love Liberates” , both by Maya Angelou
  • Pink’s  VMA acceptance speech – Pair with “ If I Should Have a Daughter ” by Sarah Kay
  • Ellen’s  People’s Choice Humanitarian Award Acceptance Speech – Pair with “ Pep Talk ” by Kid President
  • Gandalf Speaks to Frodo in Moria  from  LOTR : Fellowship of the Ring – Pair with   Sam’s Speech   in LOTR: The Two Towers
  • Obama’s  Final Farewell Speech – Pair with Al Pacino’s  Any Given Sunday  speech – clean version
  • Harvard Graduation Speech by Donovan Livingston – Pair with Steve Jobs  2005 Stanford Commencement Speech
  • “ Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator ” by Tim Urban – Pair with “ Five Second Rule ” by Mel Robbins
  • Rachel Hollis “Inspire Women to be Their Best” (mild profanity)
  • My Philosophy for a Happy Life by Sam Berns
  • “ To this Day: For the Bullied and the Beautiful ” by Shane Koyczan – Pair with Kid President’s “ Pep Talk to Teachers and Students “
  • “ The Power of Introverts ” by Susan Cain – Pair with “ Don’t Let Others Stop You From Living Your Own Truth “

Rhetoric in Advertising: 23 Examples

This next list holds a blend of print advertisements and commercials, perfect for introducing close reading and rhetorical analysis and for writing a rhetorical analysis essay.

Ads are short, but pack a punch. Honestly, my students love analyzing the rhetoric of advertisements a lot because they are accessible and visual.

Rhetoric Commercials & Print Advertisements

  • “ Web of Fries “
  • Duracell “ Teddy Bear ” Commercial
  • Apple 1984 Commercial Introducing the New Macintosh Computer
  • Nike “ Find Your Greatness ” Ads
  • Pepsi, Superbowl 53 Commercial: “ More than Okay ”
  • “ Get a Mac ” Commercial Compilation
  • “ Can You Hear Me Now ” Verizon Wireless
  • Apple iPhone X – “ Unlock ”
  • Kiwi “ First Steps ” Print Advertisement
  • Vauxhall’s  Backwards Cinderella
  • Lego Print Advertisement
  • Top 10 Powerful Ads of 2014

Rhetoric of the Image

  • Entourage NGO for the Homeless Print Advertisement Images
  • 33 Creative Print Ads
  • Protege Group
  • Greenpeace Print Advertisement Collection
  • “ Divorce Furniture “
  • L’OrĂ©al Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 1 ” L’OrĂ©al Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 2 ” L’OrĂ©al Paris: “This Ad Is For Men, 3 ”
  • “ It’s Not Acceptable to Treat a Woman Like One”
  • “ 50 Creative and Effective Advertising Examples “
  • Juvenile Protective Association
  • Anti-Bullying Campaign
  • 25 Serious Ads

Writing a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Using Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

No doubt, writing a rhetorical analysis essay is like taking apart a puzzle and putting it back together again. Teachers, help your students to understand how all of the pieces fit together in order to see the bigger picture of what the author is trying to accomplish.

First, take time to understand how a text “works” for a rhetorical analysis essay using ethos, pathos, and logos:

  • Read or listen to understand overall content. Look up unfamiliar words.
  • Mark the text for the author’s main points and sub-points.
  • descriptive
  • compare/contrast
  • cause/effect
  • argumentative
  • Take notes on SOAPS: subject, occasion, audience, purpose, speaker
  • Discuss the text(s) in Socratic Seminar .

Next, identify rhetorical appeals . 

  • Ethos: How an author demonstrates credibility and builds trust.
  • Pathos: How an author creates an emotional response.
  • Logos: How an author demonstrates expertise and knowledge.

Look for rhetorical devices & patterns in the text.

  • Rhetorical devices refer to an author’s use of diction and syntax.
  • Does the author repeat key words / phrases? What’s the impact?
  • Does the author return to the same idea or image? Why?

Finally, write a clear thesis statement & topic sentences for your rhetorical analysis essay.

  • Use your thesis statement to generate topic sentences.
  • In your body paragraphs, identify a technique, provide an example, and discuss the “right there” and “beneath the surface” meanings. How does the author’s choice impact the audience, further a message, establish a tone?
  • What’s the context for the repetition?
  • What connotations are important?
  • How is the anaphora used to move the reader to greater understanding (logos), emotional investment (pathos), and/or trust in the author’s ideas (ethos)?

Six Strategies for Teaching Rhetorical Analysis

I’ve created an awesome free guide to inspire English teachers who teach rhetoric and the rhetorical analysis essay in their classrooms. Even if you don’t teach AP lang, you can benefit from these strategies !

rhetorical-analysis-teaching-guide

Rhetorical Analysis Essay FAQ’s

How do you write a rhetorical analysis essay.

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay is like writing a literary analysis essay, except the focus is on one or more non-fiction texts and the analysis targets an author’s style or rhetorical “moves” (a.k.a. use of rhetorical appeals and/or devices). Rhetorical analysis essays usually prove a claim about the author’s message or purpose for writing. The paragraphs in a rhetorical analysis essay unpack “what” an author is doing to send this message and “how” these choices impact the audience.

What does it mean to write a rhetorical analysis?

Writing a rhetorical analysis means that you are aware, as an audience member, reader, listener, human being, of the messages you consume. As a critical consumer of others’ ideas, you ask hard questions about how these messages are shaped, why they’re being delivered in certain ways, and why this is important for you and for society.

What are the three rhetorical strategies?

The three most commonly known rhetorical strategies are known as rhetorical appeals. Ethos (ethics) refers to credibility and trustworthiness. Pathos (passion) refers to engaging an audience’s emotions. Logos (logic) refers to engaging an audience’s brain through logical organization and use of evidence and arguments.

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About Lindsay Ann

Lindsay has been teaching high school English in the burbs of Chicago for 19 years. She is passionate about helping English teachers find balance in their lives and teaching practice through practical feedback strategies and student-led learning strategies. She also geeks out about literary analysis, inquiry-based learning, and classroom technology integration. When Lindsay is not teaching, she enjoys playing with her two kids, running, and getting lost in a good book.

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Reader Interactions

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January 9, 2023 at 9:38 am

Hi Lindsay Ann, thanks so much for these great resources. Just wanted to gently point out a couple errors that you might want to fix:

#12: should be Seth Myers’ (not Seth Myer’s) #13: should be independence (not independance)

Teachers have to help each other out 🙂

Best, Nikkee

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January 9, 2023 at 5:44 pm

Thank you so much for letting me know, Nikkee!

[…] a lot of options and extensions for analyzing rhetoric in social media. Who knows, maybe your next rhetorical analysis essay assignment will be focused on rhetoric in social […]

[…] 70 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Secondary ELA […]

[…] find that teaching rhetorical analysis and close reading skills go hand-in-hand with teaching voice in […]

[…] helps students to remember that everything comes back to the author’s purpose or message in rhetorical analysis. Author’s purpose is central to unpacking an author’s choices, including use of […]

[…] you assigning a rhetorical analysis essay? Why not try having students use rhetorical analysis sentence […]

[…] I introduced students to rhetoric. First, we journaled on this topic: Think of a time someone talked you into doing something or believing something. How did they do it? What tactics did they use? Students may share out journals. I gave students a graphic organizer with a PAPA analysis (purpose, audience, persona, argument) and picked a speech. Frankly, the speech I picked, which was Samwise Gamgee’s speech to Frodo Baggins in The Two Towers, failed spectacularly since students had no frame of reference. Note: that movie is old now. I know. It makes me sad, too. So go cautiously if you use this, but maybe pick something else. You can find a massive list here. […]

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210 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

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Table of contents

  • 1 What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?
  • 2 How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?
  • 3 Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Topics
  • 4 Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For High School Students
  • 5 Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students
  • 6 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Education
  • 7 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Literature
  • 8 Rhetorical Analysis Topics List on Speeches
  • 9 Visual Rhetorical Essay Topics
  • 10 Topics for a Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Society
  • 11 Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on a Person
  • 12 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Philosophy
  • 13 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on History
  • 14 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Business
  • 15 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Government
  • 16 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Culture
  • 17 Conclusion

With any rhetorical analysis essay writing, effective communication is everything. If you’re a student or want to elevate your persuasive skills, learning how to engage your readers is the first step.

When it comes to selecting thought-provoking rhetorical analysis topics, where do you begin? This is where a wise companion in PapersOwl comes in handy. With this seasoned guide, you can easily navigate the complex world of rhetorical analysis. Until then, take a look at our extensive collection of topics that’ll get your creative juices flowing.

We have created a list of 210 essays that will inspire you to craft a powerful academic essay. These rhetorical analysis paper topics cater to all skill levels too.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

This type of analysis essay identifies the rhetorical devices and strategies used by an author, all while highlighting how they have used words to sway their audience.

For example, a rhetorical paper looks at an influential political speech through purpose, key claims, and tone. In an essay, students cover by following a structured approach.

  • Introduction. Students present the text, author, and thesis statement. These outline the main argument or points of the analysis.
  • Main body paragraphs. These delve into specific strategies, appeals, and devices to support the analysis. Make your essay authentic by keeping it true to the facts.
  • Conclusion. The end wraps up the essay by summarizing the main points. It will also discuss the effectiveness of the persuasive techniques.

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

Finding the right topic comes down to writing about something you’re familiar with. This is because you’ll need to showcase insightful analysis to write a rhetorical analysis essay successfully. The best way to do this is to make sure the rhetorical topics you pick are something you’re interested in.

Tip 1. Start by identifying the rhetorical situation essay topics that interest you. This will make background research and thematic analysis that much more enjoyable. Then ask yourself:

  • What subjects or themes are intriguing for you to rhetorically analyze?
  • Are there specific rhetorical analysis example topics in your field of study that you excel in or are passionate about?
  • Have you studied similar subjects or texts in the past that might help your rhetorical analysis assignment ideas come to life?

Tip 2. Choose from rhetorical analysis ideas that match your interests and expertise. Select rhetoric research paper topics relevant to your course or subject area. And make sure there is enough information to write a defined argument. It needs to be complex enough to allow a thorough literary analysis of the themes and the most valuable rhetorical strategies.

Tip 3. Make sure the rhetorical analysis paper topic is suitable. It will need to meet the expectations of rhetorical analysis topics. This means highlighting the importance symbolism plays in the author’s message.

  • Is there enough emotional depth and background research for you to work with?
  • Can you cover the rhetorical situation within the word limit?
  • Is it interesting enough to engage your reader?

Need help with essay writing? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Here, you’ll rhetorically analyze two texts by similarities, differences, and effectiveness. Sometimes, though, a critical eye is needed. This is when students seek a reputable analytical essay writing service like PapersOwl for help. Here you’ll find expert advice on the most effective academic writing so that you can study with peace of mind.

  • The Persuasive Techniques Used By Martin Luther King Jr. And Malcolm X In Their Speeches.
  • Does Innovation Outweigh Invention?
  • Washington Vs. Lincoln.
  • What Is Better For The Economy: Traditional Postal Service Or Email?
  • The Persuasive Techniques Of Apple And Samsung In Advertisements.
  • The Persuasive Devices Of President Biden’s Speech Vs. President Obama’s Speech.
  • Classical Conditioning Or Operant Conditioning. Which Is More Practical?
  • The Art Of The Greeks And The Romans.
  • What Drives Business Growth In 2023. E-Commerce Or Traditional?
  • Education Or Life Without It?
  • The Use Of Persuasion In Barack Obama’s And Donald Trump’s Presidential Speeches.
  • Command Economy Or The Free Market.
  • Philosophy Vs. Religion.
  • Ethos, Pathos, And Logos In Op-Ed Articles By Conservative And Liberal Columnists.
  • Persuasive Techniques Used In Public Service Announcements On Smoking And Drug Abuse.

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For High School Students

These easy rhetorical analysis topics encourage students to examine all forms of communication. A rhetorical analysis essay requires looking at written texts, acceptance speeches, or visuals.

It will also help you develop critical thinking skills by understanding how language is used to achieve a particular goal.

  • A Rhetorical Analysis On The Meaning Of Mona Lisa’s Smile.
  • How William Shakespeare Became Known As The Greatest Writer In The World.
  • The Final Speech Of Martin Luther King Jr.
  • The Reasons For WW2.
  • Novels And Movies About “Frankenstein”: Similarities And Differences.
  • The Impact Of Electronic Media On Culture.
  • Why Do Films And TV Fail to Capture The Full Essence Of The Books They Are Based On?
  • Heroism As Defined By J. K. Rowling And J. R. R. Tolkien.
  • A Detailed Analysis Of TV And Online Advertisement.
  • The Power Of Social Media: A Rhetoric Paper
  • How Sherlock Holmes Is Perceived On TV And Why Not Everyone Likes Him.
  • Why Do People Write Fan Fiction?
  • My School Principal’s Speech.
  • William Shakespeare’s “Romeo And Juliet”: An Analysis.
  • Why Are Dogs Known As “Man’s Best Friend”?

Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students

These detailed rhetorical analysis topics cover complex primary themes and issues. Through rhetorical analysis, college students learn how language sends a message.

You’ll also improve your own persuasive writing skills by looking at the different types of rhetorical analysis.

  • The Use Of Parallelism, Repetition, And Allusion In Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” Speech.
  • Do Women Or Men React Better To Media Advertisement Messages?
  • How Does Online Content Manipulate Persuasive Devices?
  • What Effect Does Music Have On Film And TV?
  • The Persuasive Devices Of The American National Anthem.
  • Symbolism In Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings”.
  • How Syrian Politics Sparked War.
  • The Persuasive Techniques Used In A Popular Advertisement Or Commercial.
  • Why Are Ted Talks So Popular?
  • How Does An Influential Newspaper Editorial Manipulate Rhetoric Devices To Benefit Its Argument?
  • My Favorite Poem By William Shakespeare.
  • The Impact Of A Popular Social Media Influencer’s Posts Or Videos.
  • Rhetorical Devices In Famous Song Lyrics
  • The Use Of Metaphor In A Speech From Your School Director On Graduation Day.
  • The Effectiveness Of Rhetoric Devices In A Well-Known Op-Ed Or Opinion Piece.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Education

An essay topic on education looks at different forms of communication. You’ll analyze the author’s purpose, as well as their emotional appeal.

All while understanding the nuances of educational discussions and elevating your analytical skills.

  • Education System And Educational Technologies .
  • Importance Of Time Management Skills .
  • Integration Of America’s Public Schools .
  • Standardized Testing In Measuring Students’ Academic Performance.
  • A Detailed Analysis Essay On The “No Child Left Behind” Policy.
  • The Persuasive Techniques Used In Debates Surrounding Homeschooling Versus Traditional Schooling.
  • An Analysis Essay On The Proponents And Opponents Of School Vouchers.
  • The Language And Persuasive Strategies Used In Promoting Stem Education In Schools.
  • An Analysis Essay On Inclusive Education And Its Impact On Special Needs.
  • The Arguments For And Against Implementing Technology In The Classroom.
  • The Role Of Standardized Curricula In Fostering Critical Thinking And Creativity In Students.
  • Promoting Social-Emotional Learning In Schools.
  • The Role Of Teachers’ Unions In Shaping Educational Policies And Outcomes.
  • Examining Peer Research Papers On The Arguments For And Against Implementing School Uniforms.
  • How Policymakers Use Rhetorical Devices To Debate How Teachers’ Unions Shape Education.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Literature

Authors, poets, and playwrights use a variety of forms of communication in their literary works. Through them, you’ll learn how authors create meaningful literary pieces and gain an appreciation of novels rhetorical strategies.

  • Symbolism And Literary Devices In “The Lord Of The Rings” Trilogy.
  • The Significance Of Stream-Of-Consciousness Narrative Style In Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”.
  • The Literary Texts Of William Shakespeare.
  • Examine The Use Of Rhetorical Devices In A Famous Poem, Such As Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise”.
  • What Does Solitude Symbolize In 21st-Century Literary Texts Compared To The 20th Century?
  • Analyzing The Persuasive Strategies Used By Simone De Beauvoir In “The Second Sex”.
  • A Detailed Analysis Essay On The Primary Themes Present In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”.
  • Different Rhetorical Devices In “The Bible”.
  • The Rhetoric Devices And Symbolism Of Stephen King.
  • The Power Of Symbolism And Metaphor In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”.
  • The Literary Devices Of “Pride And Prejudice” And How They’re Still Relevant Today.
  • Gender And Power In Jane Austen’s “Pride And Prejudice”.
  • Romanticism In William Wordsworth’s Poem “Tintern Abbey”.
  • How Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” Confronts Issues Of Racial Injustice
  • The Influence Of Gothic Elements In Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” And “The Fall Of The House Of Usher”.

Rhetorical Analysis Topics List on Speeches

The speech topics for an analysis essay focus on analyzing the elements of a speech. You’ll go deep into the speaker’s choice of words, tone, delivery style, use of rhetorical devices, and the structure of the speech.

By evaluating these components, a detailed rhetorical analysis reveals the speaker’s underlying strategies. Then you can explain how the techniques engage, persuade, and inspire their target audience.

  • Rhetorical Analysis Of Barack Obama’s Victory Speech .
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Speeches By Greta Thunberg And David Attenborough.
  • The 1588 Speech By Queen Elizabeth on The Spanish Armada.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Susan B. Anthony’s “On Women’s Right To Vote” Speech.
  • Commencement Speeches By Influential Figures Like Steve Jobs And Oprah Winfrey.
  • The Role Of Emotional Appeal In Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Winston Churchill In His “We Shall Fight On The Beaches” Speech.
  • An Examination Of Logos In John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address.
  • The Persuasive Power Of Repetition In The Famous “Yes We Can” Speech By Barack Obama.
  • How Rhetorical Devices Vary In Nelson Mandela’s “Long Walk To Freedom” Speech.
  • The Effectiveness Of Analogy And Anecdote In Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Address.
  • The Impact Of Tone And Pacing In George Washington’s Resignation Speech.
  • The Use Of Persuasive Strategies In Malcolm X’s “The Ballot Or The Bullet” Speech
  • The Effect Of Formal Or Informal Language In Speech Delivery.
  • The Impact Of Persuasive Techniques In Greta Thunberg’s “How Dare You” Speech At The United Nations Climate Action Summit.

Visual Rhetorical Essay Topics

Visual essays explore how the things we see persuade a target audience and evoke emotional responses. The things you’ll look at with visual analysis essay writing include color, layout, and concrete or abstract images. By doing so, you’ll learn how visual communication impacts our media-rich society.

  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Use Of Color Symbolism In Political Campaign Posters.
  • The Impact Of Visual Metaphors In Advertising On Consumer Behavior.
  • The Role Of Typography And Font Choice In Conveying A Message In Graphic Design.
  • Examining The Use Of Pathos In Public Service Announcements Related To Climate Change.
  • The Persuasive Power Of Visual Storytelling In Documentary Films.
  • How Social Media Platforms Use Visuals To Shape User Behaviors And Opinions.
  • The Influence Of Iconic Photographs On Public Perception Of Historical Events.
  • A Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Memes And Their Role In Shaping Online Discourse.
  • Developing A Brand Identity Through Visual Symbols And Logos.
  • The Role Of Visual Composition In Enhancing The Persuasiveness Of Infographics.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Impact Of Editorial Cartoons On Shaping Public Opinion.
  • How Visual Metaphors In Music Videos Influence Viewers’ Interpretations Of The Song.
  • The Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Visual Arts In The Streets.
  • How Visual Rhetorical Composition Is Used In Propaganda Posters To Evoke Nationalistic Emotions.
  • Visual Aesthetics in Aligning Branding With A Target Audience.

Topics for a Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Society

A rhetorical essay on society examines how language influences or critiques societal concerns. Through all types of media, you learn how certain strategies persuade or inform an audience about social issues.

  • Unconscious Racism And How It Affects People Of Color .
  • Racism And Shootings .
  • Why The Color Of Your Skin Does Not Matter .
  • The Biggest Problem In The United States Of America Is Illegal Immigrants .
  • The Problem Of Mass Shootings
  • Gun Violence .
  • The Role Of Persuasion In Environmental Activism And Climate Change Debates.’
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Paper On The Persuasive Techniques In Advertisements Targeting Societal Issues.
  • The Influence Of Celebrity Endorsements On Public Opinion And Social Issues.
  • The Language And Symbols Used In Anti-Bullying Campaigns.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Paper On The LGBTQ+ Community.
  • Public Health Campaigns Addressing Mental Health Stigma.
  • A Detailed Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Discourse Surrounding The Legalization Of Marijuana.
  • The Power Of Language In Promoting Or Challenging Racial Stereotypes.
  • The Influence Of Rhetorical Devices In Attitudes Toward Wealth Inequality And Social Mobility.

Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on a Person

An outstanding rhetorical analysis paper looks at persuasive strategies to understand the writer’s intention. These essays examine how someone uses language to shape public opinion or inspire change.

  • Nikola Tesla – The Inventor Behind It All .
  • Changes By Tupac .
  • President Donald Trump And His Politics .
  • About Fidel Castro .
  • How Steve Jobs Used Persuasive Strategies To Reinvent Apple And Inspire Consumer Loyalty.
  • The Distinct Rhetoric Of Greta Thunberg In Her Climate Change Activism.
  • Analyzing The Persuasive Techniques Of Elon Musk’s Public Presentations And Interviews.
  • The Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Susan B. Anthony’s Fight For Women’s Suffrage.
  • Do Abstract Images Matter? What Does Boo Radley Represent In “To Kill A Mockingbird”?
  • The Rhetorical Composition Of Malala Yousafzai In Her Advocacy For Girls’ Education.
  • Nelson Mandela’s Fight Against Apartheid.
  • Dissecting The Persuasive Strategies Of Adolf Hitler In His Propaganda Campaigns.
  • The Persuasive Techniques Employed By Mahatma Gandhi In His Fight For Indian Independence.
  • How Winston Churchill Inspired A Nation During World War 2.
  • Maya Angelou In Her Poems And Speeches: A Rhetorical Analysis Essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Philosophy

Philosophers use persuasive techniques, arguments, and linguistic choices in their rhetorical analysis essays to convey their ideas. It will be your job to define their impact by looking at how they engage and convince their readers.

You’ll learn how philosophical concepts are presented and articulated, and you’ll develop your analytical abilities.

  • The Calvinistic Doctrine Of Predestination .
  • The Use Of Persuasive Devices In Plato’s “Allegory Of The Cave”.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Descartes’ “Cogito, Ergo Sum” Argument.
  • Persuasive Techniques Used By Immanuel Kant In His “Critique Of Pure Reason”.
  • A Linguistic Examination Of John Locke’s “A Rhetorical Essay Concerning Human Understanding”.
  • The Role Of Ethos, Logos, And Pathos In Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s “The Social Contract”.
  • The Persuasive Strategies Of Friedrich Nietzsche In “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”.
  • Analysis Of The Socratic Method In “Dialogues” By Plato.
  • Persuasive Language In John Stuart Mill’s “On Liberty”.
  • Rhetorical Devices In “Leviathan” By Thomas Hobbes.
  • Metaphor And Symbolism In Søren Kierkegaard’s “Fear And Trembling”.
  • Linguistic Examination Of Martin Heidegger’s “Being And Time”.
  • The Persuasive Power Of Bertrand Russell’s “Why I Am Not A Christian”.
  • Analyze Main Rhetorical Devices In Ludwig Wittgenstein’s “Philosophical Investigations”.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Language Of Metaphysics In George Berkeley’s “A Treatise Concerning The Principles Of Human Knowledge”.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on History

History essays examine and check historical speeches, texts, and events through the lens of expression.

These rhetorical analysis topics will have you studying the words of influential figures throughout history. And how their messages shaped public opinion through the power of language and persuasion.

  • The Civil War .
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The “Zimmermann Telegram” And Its Impact On World War I
  • The Debates Surrounding The U.S. Constitution.
  • American Revolution And The Declaration Of Independence.
  • Persuasive Techniques In The Abolitionist Movement
  • The Persuasive Power Of Queen Elizabeth I’s Speech To The Troops At Tilbury.
  • Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” Pamphlet.
  • The Speeches Of Marcus Tullius Cicero And Their Impact On Roman Society.
  • Emancipation Proclamation. Analyzing Abraham Lincoln’s Use Of Diction.
  • Techniques Employed In The Women’s Suffrage Movement.
  • The Use Of Persuasive Expression In The Civil Rights Movement.
  • Wartime Propaganda Posters.
  • European Union Formation Through Written And Spoken Persuasive Techniques.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis.
  • 1979 Iranian Revolution.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Business

The business rhetorical analysis examines how communication achieves specific goals. These rhetoric topics look at how marketing campaigns or business proposals affect society.

  • Disney Is Destroying Lives
  • Completely Legal For Walmart To Hire Many Part Time Workers
  • Brexit Bad For Business Ain’t It
  • Insights Into The Power Of Storytelling In Business Presentations.
  • Campaigns Promoting Corporate Social Responsibility Have Great Power
  • Rhetorical Strategies Used In Customer Testimonials And Reviews To Persuade Potential Clients.
  • The Persuasive Techniques Used By Businesses To Promote Environmentally-Friendly Practices.
  • How Spoken And Written Techniques Reinforce Or Challenge Traditional Gender Roles In The Workplace.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On How Businesses Respond To Public Relations Disasters.
  • Exploring The Language That Conveys Corporate Values And Mission Statements.
  • The Impact Of Social Media Influencers On Business Promotion.
  • The Persuasive Techniques Used In “Shark Tank” Pitches And Startup Competitions.
  • Exploring The Strategies Used By Businesses To Regain Trust After Controversies Or Scandals.
  • From Commercials To Viral Ad Campaigns: How Advertising Works In 2023.
  • How Companies Persuade Other Organizations To Collaborate Or Form Partnerships.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Government

These rhetorical analysis topics cover political speeches to propaganda in policy documents.

You’ll learn how language and tone rally support for specific initiatives. As well as develop a deeper appreciation for this topic’s influence on political discourse.

  • What Does Change Mean In Us History?
  • United States Key Role In Support Of Human Rights .
  • Essay About Brown V. Board Of Education .
  • Police Brutality And Abuse Towards Blacks .
  • The Language And Communication Strategies Used In International Diplomacy.
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On Political Party Platforms And How They Attract Voters.
  • Shaping Public Opinion On Controversial Legislation.
  • A Global Village Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Success Or Failure Of Social Movements.
  • A Rhetoric Analysis Of The Impact Of Language In The Framing Of National Security Issues.
  • The Role Of Persuasion In The Portrayal Of Political Figures In The Media.
  • Examining The Language And Communication Strategies Used In Political Crisis Management.
  • Shaping Public Discourse On Controversial Topics Through Rhetorical Analysis.
  • Promoting Specific Government Policies Through Written And Spoken Strategy.
  • The Rhetorical Richness Of Visual Arts In Media.
  • The Use Of Emotional Appeals In Government Public Service Announcements.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Culture

Culture-specific rhetorical strategies contribute to the unique characteristics of different societies. And studying them encourages the development of critical thinking and analytical skills.

Through language, you will learn how cultural norms, values, and traditions are conveyed and reinforced.

  • Women And Men Pay Gap
  • Thinking Queerly: Race, Sex, Gender
  • Abortion Illegal
  • The Society Acceptance Of LGBT
  • A Rhetorical Analysis Essay On The Relationship Between Popular Culture And Consumer Behavior.
  • Cultural Festivals And Their Impact On Societal Values.
  • The Influence Of Social Media On The Evolution Of Cultural Trends.
  • Persuasive Language In Cultural Documentaries.
  • Literary Persuasion In The Promotion And Preservation Of Cultural Heritage.
  • Popular Art Criticism.
  • Cultural Stereotypes: Perceptions and Acceptances.
  • Language And Communication Strategies Used In Cultural Diplomacy.
  • Mainstream Media’s Representation Of Minority Cultures.
  • Language And Symbolism In Traditional Cultural Rituals.
  • Cultural And Artistic Movements Throughout History

Rhetorical analysis is a fascinating way to explore the power of language and persuasion. Understanding methods used to persuade and improve analytical skills is essential for students.

Luckily, there are 210 essay topics to select from here, so there is no shortage of good rhetorical analysis topics to explore.

From the speeches of world leaders to advertisements, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for the art of persuasion. Furthermore, you learn how to use rhetorical devices to captivate audiences by analyzing popular media.

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122 Various Rhetorical Analysis Topics To Help Your Progress

rhetorical analysis topics

Many students don’t know where to start when choosing rhetorical analysis topics for academic papers. That’s because writing about these topics requires students to explore the subject in detail and prove their standpoint. Usually, educators expect learners to use effective and persuasive methods to achieve this goal. In simple terms, a rhetorical essay involves writing about writing.

This article presents a rhetorical analysis topics list for learners at different educational levels. It’s useful because it provides helpful ideas to help students with difficulties create interesting titles for their papers.

What Is Rhetorical Analysis?

Before diving into the list of rhetorical analysis topics, let’s define rhetoric.

A dictionary will say rhetoric is “the effective or persuasive art of writing or speaking, especially one that exploits figures of speech and other compositional techniques.”

However, rhetoric is more than just an art form. It’s also a tool that a writer can use to achieve a specific goal. In the context of academic writing, learners often use rhetoric to persuade the reader to see things from their point of view.

For example, consider the following statement:

“The death penalty is naturally an inhuman and cruel punishment that governments should abolish.”

This statement is an example of rhetoric because the writer uses persuasive language to make an argument. They want to convince the reader that the death penalty is wrong and governments should stop it.

What Are Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics?

Good rhetorical analysis titles allow the writer to analyze something and its effect on the audience or themselves. Although a rhetorical analysis essay can be about a speech or literature, it can also be about a movie or art. Some educators even ask learners to write rhetorical analyses about billboards or commercials. Nevertheless, an ideal topic allows the writer to acquire and analyze sufficient information.

Remember, the goal of a rhetorical analysis is to evaluate the effectiveness of an argument or a piece of work. Therefore, pick a topic that allows you to do this. Once you’ve known what rhetorical analysis is and what makes good topics, let’s delve into some of the titles worth considering.

Best Topics For Rhetorical Analysis In 2023

Maybe you’re looking for the best ideas to consider for your academic essays or papers. In that case, here are some of the titles to consider for your write-up.

  • How social media affects body image
  • Common rhetorical strategies in advertising
  • What is the relationship between violence and video games?
  • How does music affect mood?
  • The role of the internet in education
  • Should governments lower the legal drinking age?
  • Should governments legalize marijuana?
  • Euthanasia: To be or not to be?
  • Cloning: The ethical implications and applications
  • Is homeschooling a viable educational alternative?
  • Is childhood obesity a reflection of bad parenting?
  • Are beauty pageants exploitative?
  • Should the government censor the internet?
  • Can the death penalty deter crime?
  • Should abortion be legal?
  • Are zoos ethical?
  • Should governments dictate the number of children a family can have?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their child?
  • Is it ethical to buy organs on the black market?
  • What are the ethical implications of human cloning?
  • The impact of social media on relationships
  • How do the media influence body image and eating disorders?
  • The effect of advertising on consumerism
  • Exploring music’s influence on emotions
  • Investigating the internet’s impact on education
  • The changing face of family structure and its effects
  • The pros and cons of homeschooling
  • Cyber-bullying- Its impact and how to prevent it
  • School uniforms: Are they necessary?
  • Religion in schools: Should the government allow it?
  • Censorship in schools: What are the criteria for choosing books, art, music, and film?
  • Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student ability?
  • Is tracking students by ability level beneficial?
  • Should schools eliminate homework?
  • Is the current educational system preparing students for the workforce?

Pick any of these ideas and investigate them to provide a detailed analysis. You can consult different sources to present an informative paper.

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For College Students

Perhaps, you’re pursuing your college or university education, and the professor wants you to write a rhetorical analysis essay. In that case, here’s a list of topic ideas to consider for your paper.

  • How do authors use ethos, pathos, and logos in their work?
  • What is the purpose of the author’s argument?- Provide an example
  • Choose a piece of literary work and describe the target audience
  • Explain the methods the author uses to persuade their audience- Choose your scholarly work.
  • Explain the implications of the author’s argument in your preferred literary work
  • Use an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of the author’s rhetoric
  • The rhetoric issue in Plato’s Republic
  • Why did “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King break the internet?
  • Rhetorical analysis of the film, Black Panther
  • Analyze the speech writing power in George Washington’s speeches
  • Rhetorical devices and their use in television advertising
  • Analyzing the rhetorical analysis devices in the Monalisa portrait
  • Literary devices and their function in plays and poetry
  • Rhetorical devices in Harry Porter
  • Analyzing the September 11 speech- Which rhetorical devices stand out?
  • How online content like blogs use rhetoric
  • Analyze your favorite book and show how it affected your life
  • Analyze rhetorical devices in your preferred political speech of the 21st century
  • How technology facilitates the manipulation of rhetoric devices
  • Analyzing rhetorical devices in Charles Spurgeon’s sermons
  • Rhetorical analysis of The Great Dictator by Charlie Chaplin
  • Critical analysis of a scene from your favorite movie- Highlight rhetoric devices
  • What marks acceptance speeches, and how do speakers use rhetorical devices
  • Rhetoric in preaching- How preachers impact the congregation
  • Discuss how authors use solitude in literature

These college-level rhetorical analysis ideas allow you to investigate different aspects of writing. Also, they provide a detailed perspective that helps you understand how to approach the assignments.

Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics For High School Learners

Maybe you’re in high school, and the teacher wants you to write a rhetorical analysis essay. If so, this list has ideal titles to consider for your paper.

  • Can a real friendship exist between a dog and a man?
  • Language is crucial to society- A detailed rhetorical analysis
  • The dog is the best housekeeper- A rhetorical analysis of this phrase
  • A comparison of how men and women consume ad messages
  • Rhetorical analysis of women’s attitudes towards fashion compared to men
  • Consumerism and environment- A rhetorical analysis
  • Analysis and summary of “The Kite Runner.”
  • The Animal Farm- A detailed rhetorical analysis of this book
  • Write a rhetorical analysis essay on your favorite birthday
  • A detailed rhetorical analysis of a speech by the school’s head teacher on graduation day
  • Rhetorical analysis of the inaugural address by your favorite teacher
  • Rhetorical analysis of a Nobel Peace Prize Winner’s speech
  • Rhetorical analysis and themes of William Shakespeare’s Pride and Prejudice
  • Online consumers- A detailed rhetorical analysis of their behavior
  • A rhetorical analysis of the electronic media’s impact on culture
  • Social media and its power- A rhetorical analysis of its power in turning the world into a global village
  • Olympics and World Cup- A detailed rhetorical analysis
  • National anthem in Olympic games- A rhetorical analysis
  • A rhetorical analysis of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
  • Primary themes in Alice in the Wanderland- A rhetorical analysis

These are good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on if you’re in high school. However, you may want to read some books or study the works to write informative and winning papers.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Maybe you don’t have adequate time to read or investigate somebody else’s work and write about it. In that case, the following ideas could be excellent for your titles.

  • The Hunger Games- What are this work’s most practical rhetorical strategies?
  • How ancient and modern stylistic devices differ
  • A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf- Exploring the primary rhetorical devices
  • Rhetorical analysis of the class representative’s speech on the Memorial Day
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray- Investigating the critical stylistic devices
  • Develop a rhetorical composition of varying religious texts
  • Rhetorical analysis of Mona Lisa’s smile and its meaning
  • A detailed rhetorical analysis of pop-culture songs
  • Rhetorical analysis of Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso
  • Heroism as a theme- How does it come out in different literary works?
  • How authors handle race and prejudice in their works
  • Rhetorical strategies in Harry Potter’s work
  • Rhetorical analysis of a speech by Alexander the Great
  • Themes and their relevance in literary texts about love and hope
  • Rhetorical analysis of Louisa May Alcott in promoting feminism
  • Investigating the American National Anthem- What are the vital rhetorical devices?
  • Does the Fight Song by Rachel Platten mark creativity and art?
  • Why do Ted Talks attract so many listeners?
  • How advertisers curate poster and billboard language in advertising
  • The impact of vivid description and symbols on literary work’s visual impression

These rhetoric topics are relatively easy to write about, but some may require a little research. Nevertheless, most learners will find working on these subjects straightforward.

Rhetoric Research Paper Topics

Maybe you’re writing a research paper and need a rhetorical title. If so, consider these ideas for your project or thesis from professional dissertation writers .

  • How has the definition of rhetoric changed over time?
  • What are the different types of rhetoric?
  • How do persuasive and argumentative rhetorics differ?
  • What are the ethical implications of rhetoric?
  • How does rhetoric affect society?
  • How can authors use rhetoric for good or evil?
  • How art uses rhetoric
  • Creative ads and symbolism
  • Game of Thrones- How does the film use visual arts?
  • Rhetorical devices in digital media campaigns
  • How does the film/television show portray its characters?
  • What is the purpose of the film/television show?
  • Who is the target audience for this piece?
  • What methods does the film/television show use to persuade its audience?
  • What are the implications of the film/television show?
  • Is the film/television show’s rhetoric effective? Why or why not?
  • Works about GMO and human health- A rhetorical analysis
  • Automated system use and rhetorical devices
  • Sports segregation by gender- a rhetorical analysis
  • Data privacy and social media- A detailed rhetorical analysis
  • College athletes’ payment- A rhetorical analysis
  • Investigating gun legalization- Rhetorical analysis of this topic

These are some of the best rhetorical analysis example topics to consider for your essay or paper. Choose a title that interests you and investigate it to present a detailed perspective.

Get Custom Essay Help Online

Maybe you have a title for your paper but not the time or skills to write a quality essay. In that case, get help from our experts to write a winning piece or undergraduate thesis . We’re professional writers with a proven track record of helping learners across the academic levels. Our crew makes completing a writing assignment an awesome experience. You will realize that writing a rhetorical paper is fun with our assistance. We will deliver a masterpiece even if you need help with an advanced essay.

Moreover, we guarantee the security of the information you share with us. Also, you will consistently score top grades whenever you seek our assistance. Contact us now!

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Cathy A.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics & Ideas for Students

10 min read

Published on: Jul 23, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

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Rhetorical essay is a challenging task for some students, and it requires proper planning and time. In this type of essay, topic selection is the main thing, and many writers confuse it when choosing a topic for the essay. This blog will help you in selecting a topic for a rhetorical essay.

In a rhetorical analysis essay, the writer defines a problem, deeply analyzes it, makes a specific argument related to the topic, and supports it with strong evidence. It is a form of academic essay writing about a piece of literature, art, or a speech.

Writing a good rhetorical essay needs enough information that you analyze it quickly. This type of essay teaches you many skills and improves your thinking. The writer thinks critically and performs an objective analysis.

For essay writers, this essay becomes the most challenging task, and it requires that the writer evaluate the purpose of the original content. Writing a rhetorical analysis essay requires the ability to analyze the language.

Numerous analytical papers differ by the object of analysis like you can analyze the movie, book, phenomenon, etc. The papers’ structure will be the same, but the only difference is the context you provide.

This type of essay writing requires an understanding of the subject matter and intended audience. The rhetorical essay is not a narrative or a reflective piece of essay writing, but the writer’s opinion still matters.

If you are writing a rhetorical essay choosing the right topic is the first thing that makes your writing phase easier. It becomes a daunting task if you don’t know how to choose the right topic for a rhetorical essay.

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Rhetorical analysis essay topic selection becomes a difficult task for some writers. If you are looking for rhetorical analysis essay topics for your  college essay , then you are in the right place. Here are the best topics for a rhetorical analysis essay that you can use for your academic assignment. Choose from them and write an effective essay.

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics 2022

  • Obamañ€™s Final Farewell Speech
  • Speech from President Trump
  • Analyze Edgar Allen Poeñ€™s poem ñ€˜Raven.ñ€™
  • The recipe for a happy life
  • Pride and Prejudice
  • A nation among nations
  • The Price of Inequality by Joseph Stiglitz
  • England in 1819ñ€ by Percy Bysshe Shelley.
  • A popular song
  • William Shakespeare. King Lear.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Movies

  • Analyze a famous historical movie
  • The insider
  • Write an analysis of Romeo and Juliet
  • Sam Worthington in Avatar
  • The Great Gatsby
  • A Streetcar Named Desire.
  • Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Octavia Spencer in the Help

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

  • One Directionñ€™s ñ€œStory of My Lifeñ€
  • Martin Luther King Jr.ñ€™s last speech
  • ñ€œWhere the Red Fern Growsñ€ by Wilson Rawls
  • Inaugural address by President Joseph R. Biden
  • Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.
  • Leonardoñ€™s ñ€œThe Last Supperñ€ from 1497
  • Analysis of James Joyceñ€™s Ulysses
  • ñ€œThe Tempestñ€ by William Shakespeare.
  • ñ€œWhere the Red Fern Growsñ€ by Wilson Rawls.
  • Animal Farm

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics about Speeches

  • Speech from Finding Forrester
  • Charlie Chaplin The Great Dictator
  • How does Mahatma Gandhi persuade the listener to Quit India, 1942?
  • Malala Yousafzaiñ€™s speech at the Youth Takeover of the United Nations
  • Queen Elizabethñ€™s intentions in Spanish Armada speech, 1588.
  • Chief Joseph ñ€œSurrender Speechñ€
  • Gettysburg Monologue in Remember the Titans
  • Virginia Woolfñ€™s ñ€œA Room of Oneñ€™s Ownñ€
  • Analysis of the farewell address of a famous president
  • ñ€œEvery Man a Kingñ€ by Huey Pierce Long.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • ñ€œThe Lotteryñ€ by Shirley Jackson.
  • Web of fries
  • Enough movie
  • A favorite poem was written by William Shakespeare.
  • Silent Voices In Three Poems
  • "The Picture Of Dorian Gray" Analysis
  • Importance of theme of hope in literature
  • An impactful new writer
  • "Huckleberry Finn" Rhetorical Analysis
  • The importance symbolism plays in novels

Funny Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Do you love your family members or not?
  • Bananas are delicious fruit for children.
  • Are vegetables rich in the winter or summer season?
  • The fact does not support the rhetorical questions.
  • Do you like your friends or not?
  • How do the monkeys live in the zoo?
  • "Yes, Please" By Amy Poehler
  • "Witches Loaves" By O'Henry
  • Commonly used rhetorical devices
  • Do bees bring honey or not?
  • Flowers are the eyes of nature

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Yellow journalism
  • Culture and arts
  • Art through history
  • Analyze a piece of work from the Parks library
  • Show the use of sound, music, and narration in presentations
  • Is advertising making people materialistic
  • Art comparison over decades
  • ñ€œThe Canterbury Talesñ€ by Geoffrey Chaucer.
  • The rhetoric of blogs and online writing.
  • The Painted Veil

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics about Advertisements

  • California Milk Processor Board: Got Milk?
  • Disneyland: The Happiest Place on Earth.
  • Macdonald: ñ€œI'm lovin' itñ€
  • Apple: Think Different.
  • M&M: Melts in Your Mouth, Not in Your Hands
  • Pepsi: That's What I Like
  • Panasonic: Ideas for Life
  • Harley Davidson: All for Freedom. Freedom for All
  • Lñ€™Oréal: Because Youñ€™re Worth It
  • Nike: There Is No Finish Line.

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

A rhetorical analysis essay might be a problem for students, especially if they choose a tough topic for the essay. Pick a good topic for an essay, and solve several writing problems.

Every writer wants to make their writing piece interesting and encourage the reader to read the entire essay. It all depends on the essay topic; if the topic is good, it automatically grabs the target audienceñ€™s attention.

The topic is the first thing that grabs the readerñ€™s attention. The topic of the essay should be strong and effective.

Choosing the right topic for an essay becomes a difficult job for some writers. Here are the few tips that every writer should follow when selecting the topic for a rhetorical essay.

Firstly define your objective before choosing the topic. Choose the topic that interests you and make sure that the topic has scope for research or writing. Write on something that you have no idea about or no wider scope; it makes your writing process tough.

Never write about something that is not interesting and boring. If you make your writing phase easier, choose a good interesting topic, and start researching it.

Brainstorming helps the writer in the topic selection phase. Never choose a topic that is too narrow, and you have no resources. Brainstorm the ideas and note down on the paper, choose the one you find interesting, and have enough information.

But one thing to keep in mind if you have so much information, it will take weeks to learn what you need to compose your analysis.

Choose the topic carefully after brainstorming and create a well-crafted essay.

When choosing the topic for an essay, one thing to keep in mind is that you have little knowledge about it. Write about something unfamiliar to you will not make your essay a successful one.

Gather data for the essay from the relevant sources, and you know about the topic. Otherwise, it becomes a strenuous task for you.

If your teacher gives you a choice to choose the topic, then reflect your interest in the topic.

Research is another way of picking the right topic for essays. Make a list of topics that you find interesting in the brainstorming phase. When you finally choose the topic for the essay, start the research process.

Do some background research and gather relevant information about the topic. If you collect enough information that you want, then make this topic final for your essay.

Choose the topic by knowing your opposing viewpoints, and you must have an argument. If you gather information, then collect from sources with different audiences for truly opposing viewpoints.

Never choose a topic that you do not know about anything; otherwise, you will spend months learning the opposing viewpointsñ€™ background details.

Choose a topic that shows the present viewpoints and beliefs in the essay through analysis.

After some research, you will be still unable to choose a topic for an essay, then consult your teacher for guidance. The list you prepare in the brainstorming phase shows them to your teacher and asks them for help. They guide you better in the essay topic section phase and reduce your stress.

Uncommon topics are hard to write and become difficult for the reader to understand. If you choose a topic that is not so common, then you will never get relevant data. Uncommon topics are not a good way of choosing a topic; it makes your writing phase tough.

Tips for Writing the Best Rhetorical Essay

Writers always follow tips and create a successful essay. Here are some tips that give your essay a professional touch, and you can get grades from your teacher.

  • The essay topic should be catchy and attention-grabbing, so the reader reads the whole essay.
  • The opening paragraph of the essay should be catchy and interesting.
  • Use correct transitions in the body paragraphs.
  • Summarize the main points in the conclusion section.
  • Use simple sentences and try to avoid obscure words or sentences.
  • Gather information from relevant sources such as research papers, articles, books, journals, and government/organization websites.
  • Make your essay authentic and not add fake information.

Writing a rhetorical paper is not a difficult task if you follow proper guidelines. The topic of the essay also plays a vital role in a good essay.

If you get better grades and need professional help from  CollegeEssay.org . Try our AI essay generator and get an essay in no time.

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Guide

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Top Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Students

By: Betty P.

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Feb 25, 2020

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of essay in which you write about a piece of literature, art, or speech. Most of the students find it extremely stressful and scary to write rhetorical essays. They have no idea what it is, how to write one because they are not into reading.

Are you one of those students?

We cannot help it because, If you want to get an A in this type of assignment. You need to read the book thoroughly. Also, analyze the literary devices employed in the book. But we can help you get some rhetoric essay ideas.

Many students are stuck at the very beginning of writing this type of essay. They don’t know how to select a topic or subject to analyze.

In this blog, you get a complete list of interesting topics to help you in your writing phase.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

On this Page

Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Students

A good topic is the key to a perfect essay. Here is a list of topics for essays that assist you in making the right choice.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

  • "The Odyssey" And "Beowulf"
  • "The Prince" Summary
  • The symbolism of Bullfighting In “The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway.
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Romeo And Juliet"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "The Great Gatsby"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Hamlet"
  • Main Themes And Analysis of Plato's "Republic"
  • "The Picture Of Dorian Gray" Summary
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Pride And Prejudice"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of “The Fault in Our Stars”

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

  • An attitude of consumers towards Fast Fashion
  • Rhetorical Analysis of the Cultural Industry
  • Consumers Habits: Women Vs. Men“
  • 1950’s Fashion” Rhetorical Analysis
  • Rhetorical Analysis of the Commercials and the Media“
  • 1970’s Fashion” Analysis
  • Martin Luther King jr last speech
  • Rhetorical Analysis of E-commerce
  • “Electronic Media and Culture” Rhetorical Analysis
  • Environment and Consumerism Analysis

Sports Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Rhetorical Analysis of “Olympics”
  • “NFL And the Concussion Rules”
  • BCS or Playoffs
  • Kobe or LeBron
  • Players or Owners
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Presidential Sports Encomia
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Symbolic Power of Sports
  • Rhetorical Analysis of the use of steroids
  • Rhetorical Analysis on “Football World Cup”

Fiction Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • O'Henry’s "Witches Loaves"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Huckleberry Finn"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Fight Club"
  • Michael Punke’s "The Revenant""The White Heron" Analysis
  • Rhetorical Analysis of “Death of A Salesman"
  • "The Lottery" Main ThemesLiterary Analysis of "Life In The Iron Mills"
  • "Alice In The Wonderland" Primary Themes"
  • The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand Analysis

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • A blog that you are passionate about
  • England in 1819” by Percy Bysshe Shelley.
  • Do we allow our fears to restrain us from action?
  • Is there anything weird in the rhetoric of Amy Poehler?
  • Faces of love in A Red, Red Rose by Robert Burns.
  • Analyze Edgar Allan Poe’s poem ‘Raven.
  • ’The similarities and differences between two Ovidian tales
  • Steve Jobs commencement speech
  • Is there no age for education?
  • What is under our feet?

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Movies

  • Rhetorical analysis of Romeo + Juliet.
  • To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Analyze TV shows based on true events
  • Summary of "The Prince"
  • Use of symbolism Harry Potter series
  • Analyze a famous historical movie
  • Martin Luther King and “I Have a Dream.” How it changes.
  • Jennifer Lawrence in the Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
  • The Phantom of the Opera
  • The Shawshank Redemption

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About Speeches

  • “Full Power of Women” by Priyanka Chopra
  • Analysis of the farewell address of a famous president
  • Joseph Stiglitz’ The Price of Inequality
  • A rhetorical analysis of President Biden’s speech on inauguration day
  • Speech from President Trump
  • Malala Yousafzai speech for students
  • Any speech delivered by George W. Bush: what does it carry?
  • Rhetorical analysis of Pope Urban II’s Speech at Clermont, 1095.
  • Any given Sunday speech

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The rhetoric of blogs and online writing.
  • Animal Farm
  • Yellow journalism
  • The spirit level
  • “The Hunger Games” vs. “The Lottery”
  • Art through history
  • Out of Africa
  • Rhetorical analysis of creative ads
  • Culture and arts
  • Analyze the text in a famous TV campaign

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The Hunger Games vs. the Lottery
  • Backpacks vs. Briefcases
  • Jazz vs. Rock
  • "Death of a Salesman" Vs. "The White Heron"
  • Lord of the Flies: civilization vs. savagery.
  • The Breakfast Club Ending Scene vs. The Danger of a Single Story
  • Life in high school vs. life in college
  • Adolf Hitler vs. Joseph Stalin
  • American vs. Chinese concepts of beauty.
  • Gandalf vs. Dumbledore

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for 2022

  • Rhetorical Analysis of "The Ethics of Belief" by Clifford
  • Summary and Analysis of Jared Diamond’s "Easter Islands' End"
  • Rhetorical Analysis of "Success Strategies”
  • Anne Lamott’s "Traveling Mercies
  • ”Joseph Stiglitz “The Price of Inequality”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of “The Sun Is Also a Star”
  • Summary and Analysis "Guns, Germs, And Steel”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of “Forty Rules of Love”
  • “The Host” Summary“
  • The Kite Runner” Summary and Analysis

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic?

When you choose the topic for the rhetorical analysis essay, you should follow some tips. Also, save yourself from selecting a bad essay topic. For your help, we gathered some tips that will make your topic selection phase easy.

  • Choose an interesting rhetorical question that has the scope of research or writing.
  • Brainstorm the essay topic ideas.
  • Pick the one that grabs the reader’s attention.
  • You have little information about the topic.
  • Select the topic by knowing the opposing viewpoints.
  • Consult your professor and get guidance from them for your topic.
  • Know the target audience’s interests and choices.
  • Collect information about the rhetorical devices that you can discuss in the essay.
  • Determine the rhetorical strategy.

We hope that the lists mentioned above will help you select your next rhetorical analysis topic. Therefore, choose the best one according to your interest and scope.

Are you still having trouble choosing your topic or writing your rhetorical analysis essay? Consult 5StarEssays.com . We are here for you round the clock and provide the best essay writing services.

Our qualified essay writers deliver high-quality work at the most affordable rates. You only have to request to write my essay and our writers are ready to help you.

So, place your order now and free yourself from the stress of strict deadlines and poor grades.

Betty P.

Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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What Is a Rhetorical Analysis and How to Write a Great One

Helly Douglas

Helly Douglas

Cover image for article

Do you have to write a rhetorical analysis essay? Fear not! We’re here to explain exactly what rhetorical analysis means, how you should structure your essay, and give you some essential “dos and don’ts.”

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How do you write a rhetorical analysis, what are the three rhetorical strategies, what are the five rhetorical situations, how to plan a rhetorical analysis essay, creating a rhetorical analysis essay, examples of great rhetorical analysis essays, final thoughts.

A rhetorical analysis essay studies how writers and speakers have used words to influence their audience. Think less about the words the author has used and more about the techniques they employ, their goals, and the effect this has on the audience.

Image showing definitions

In your analysis essay, you break a piece of text (including cartoons, adverts, and speeches) into sections and explain how each part works to persuade, inform, or entertain. You’ll explore the effectiveness of the techniques used, how the argument has been constructed, and give examples from the text.

A strong rhetorical analysis evaluates a text rather than just describes the techniques used. You don’t include whether you personally agree or disagree with the argument.

Structure a rhetorical analysis in the same way as most other types of academic essays . You’ll have an introduction to present your thesis, a main body where you analyze the text, which then leads to a conclusion.

Think about how the writer (also known as a rhetor) considers the situation that frames their communication:

  • Topic: the overall purpose of the rhetoric
  • Audience: this includes primary, secondary, and tertiary audiences
  • Purpose: there are often more than one to consider
  • Context and culture: the wider situation within which the rhetoric is placed

Back in the 4th century BC, Aristotle was talking about how language can be used as a means of persuasion. He described three principal forms —Ethos, Logos, and Pathos—often referred to as the Rhetorical Triangle . These persuasive techniques are still used today.

Image showing rhetorical strategies

Rhetorical Strategy 1: Ethos

Are you more likely to buy a car from an established company that’s been an important part of your community for 50 years, or someone new who just started their business?

Reputation matters. Ethos explores how the character, disposition, and fundamental values of the author create appeal, along with their expertise and knowledge in the subject area.

Aristotle breaks ethos down into three further categories:

  • Phronesis: skills and practical wisdom
  • Arete: virtue
  • Eunoia: goodwill towards the audience

Ethos-driven speeches and text rely on the reputation of the author. In your analysis, you can look at how the writer establishes ethos through both direct and indirect means.

Rhetorical Strategy 2: Pathos

Pathos-driven rhetoric hooks into our emotions. You’ll often see it used in advertisements, particularly by charities wanting you to donate money towards an appeal.

Common use of pathos includes:

  • Vivid description so the reader can imagine themselves in the situation
  • Personal stories to create feelings of empathy
  • Emotional vocabulary that evokes a response

By using pathos to make the audience feel a particular emotion, the author can persuade them that the argument they’re making is compelling.

Rhetorical Strategy 3: Logos

Logos uses logic or reason. It’s commonly used in academic writing when arguments are created using evidence and reasoning rather than an emotional response. It’s constructed in a step-by-step approach that builds methodically to create a powerful effect upon the reader.

Rhetoric can use any one of these three techniques, but effective arguments often appeal to all three elements.

The rhetorical situation explains the circumstances behind and around a piece of rhetoric. It helps you think about why a text exists, its purpose, and how it’s carried out.

Image showing 5 rhetorical situations

The rhetorical situations are:

  • 1) Purpose: Why is this being written? (It could be trying to inform, persuade, instruct, or entertain.)
  • 2) Audience: Which groups or individuals will read and take action (or have done so in the past)?
  • 3) Genre: What type of writing is this?
  • 4) Stance: What is the tone of the text? What position are they taking?
  • 5) Media/Visuals: What means of communication are used?

Understanding and analyzing the rhetorical situation is essential for building a strong essay. Also think about any rhetoric restraints on the text, such as beliefs, attitudes, and traditions that could affect the author's decisions.

Before leaping into your essay, it’s worth taking time to explore the text at a deeper level and considering the rhetorical situations we looked at before. Throw away your assumptions and use these simple questions to help you unpick how and why the text is having an effect on the audience.

Image showing what to consider when planning a rhetorical essay

1: What is the Rhetorical Situation?

  • Why is there a need or opportunity for persuasion?
  • How do words and references help you identify the time and location?
  • What are the rhetoric restraints?
  • What historical occasions would lead to this text being created?

2: Who is the Author?

  • How do they position themselves as an expert worth listening to?
  • What is their ethos?
  • Do they have a reputation that gives them authority?
  • What is their intention?
  • What values or customs do they have?

3: Who is it Written For?

  • Who is the intended audience?
  • How is this appealing to this particular audience?
  • Who are the possible secondary and tertiary audiences?

4: What is the Central Idea?

  • Can you summarize the key point of this rhetoric?
  • What arguments are used?
  • How has it developed a line of reasoning?

5: How is it Structured?

  • What structure is used?
  • How is the content arranged within the structure?

6: What Form is Used?

  • Does this follow a specific literary genre?
  • What type of style and tone is used, and why is this?
  • Does the form used complement the content?
  • What effect could this form have on the audience?

7: Is the Rhetoric Effective?

  • Does the content fulfil the author’s intentions?
  • Does the message effectively fit the audience, location, and time period?

Once you’ve fully explored the text, you’ll have a better understanding of the impact it’s having on the audience and feel more confident about writing your essay outline.

A great essay starts with an interesting topic. Choose carefully so you’re personally invested in the subject and familiar with it rather than just following trending topics. There are lots of great ideas on this blog post by My Perfect Words if you need some inspiration. Take some time to do background research to ensure your topic offers good analysis opportunities.

Image showing considerations for a rhetorical analysis topic

Remember to check the information given to you by your professor so you follow their preferred style guidelines. This outline example gives you a general idea of a format to follow, but there will likely be specific requests about layout and content in your course handbook. It’s always worth asking your institution if you’re unsure.

Make notes for each section of your essay before you write. This makes it easy for you to write a well-structured text that flows naturally to a conclusion. You will develop each note into a paragraph. Look at this example by College Essay for useful ideas about the structure.

Image showing how to structure an essay

1: Introduction

This is a short, informative section that shows you understand the purpose of the text. It tempts the reader to find out more by mentioning what will come in the main body of your essay.

  • Name the author of the text and the title of their work followed by the date in parentheses
  • Use a verb to describe what the author does, e.g. “implies,” “asserts,” or “claims”
  • Briefly summarize the text in your own words
  • Mention the persuasive techniques used by the rhetor and its effect

Create a thesis statement to come at the end of your introduction.

After your introduction, move on to your critical analysis. This is the principal part of your essay.

  • Explain the methods used by the author to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience using Aristotle's rhetorical triangle
  • Use quotations to prove the statements you make
  • Explain why the writer used this approach and how successful it is
  • Consider how it makes the audience feel and react

Make each strategy a new paragraph rather than cramming them together, and always use proper citations. Check back to your course handbook if you’re unsure which citation style is preferred.

3: Conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize the points you’ve made in the main body of your essay. While you will draw the points together, this is not the place to introduce new information you’ve not previously mentioned.

Use your last sentence to share a powerful concluding statement that talks about the impact the text has on the audience(s) and wider society. How have its strategies helped to shape history?

Before You Submit

Poor spelling and grammatical errors ruin a great essay. Use ProWritingAid to check through your finished essay before you submit. It will pick up all the minor errors you’ve missed and help you give your essay a final polish. Look at this useful ProWritingAid webinar for further ideas to help you significantly improve your essays. Sign up for a free trial today and start editing your essays!

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You’ll find countless examples of rhetorical analysis online, but they range widely in quality. Your institution may have example essays they can share with you to show you exactly what they’re looking for.

The following links should give you a good starting point if you’re looking for ideas:

Pearson Canada has a range of good examples. Look at how embedded quotations are used to prove the points being made. The end questions help you unpick how successful each essay is.

Excelsior College has an excellent sample essay complete with useful comments highlighting the techniques used.

Brighton Online has a selection of interesting essays to look at. In this specific example, consider how wider reading has deepened the exploration of the text.

Image showing tips when reading a sample essay

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can seem daunting, but spending significant time deeply analyzing the text before you write will make it far more achievable and result in a better-quality essay overall.

It can take some time to write a good essay. Aim to complete it well before the deadline so you don’t feel rushed. Use ProWritingAid’s comprehensive checks to find any errors and make changes to improve readability. Then you’ll be ready to submit your finished essay, knowing it’s as good as you can possibly make it.

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Helly Douglas is a UK writer and teacher, specialising in education, children, and parenting. She loves making the complex seem simple through blogs, articles, and curriculum content. You can check out her work at hellydouglas.com or connect on Twitter @hellydouglas. When she’s not writing, you will find her in a classroom, being a mum or battling against the wilderness of her garden—the garden is winning!

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100 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Rhetorical analysis essay topics always stood out from other tasks of similar nature. There are many assignments students get at college, but this one is more difficult, largely because few people understand what it even means. Rhetorical analysis means writing an essay where you research a specific text or speech and determine what elements it contains to impact the audience.

These could be literary devices, plot, characterization, style, method of influence, and many other things. To write a good essay, you should understand what makes an author’s rhetoric effective, but even more importantly, you must choose an appropriate topic for your future analysis. The choice is vast, so it’s not an easy task, but fortunately, we have many interesting options you could choose from.

How to Pick Rhetorical Analysis Ideas

The first thing to know is that any topic you select must resonate with your believes in particular. Sure, it has to have academic value — one cannot just write whatever comes into their mind, but your own interest is almost equally important. If you think the text you’re analyzing is boring, you’ll never succeed with your essay. If you hate your chosen topic, there is actually a bigger chance of getting great results with it because you could always pick a negative stance, introducing an argument against the author’s usage of literary techniques. So, passion for the text is everything, whether it’s of positive or negative nature. Recall any works that affected you on some level and use them as the basis for your essay.

Another strategy for picking good topics for rhetorical analysis is to discuss it with friends or professors. They might not know your preferences, but they could give new ideas through their brainstorming. Doing research before you start working on assignment is also crucial. For example, you decided to analyze a short article written by an unknown writer, but you don’t entirely understand how rhetorical analysis works. You won’t be able to find other similar analyses available, so you’ll be stuck. If this is your first try, be sure to select an essay topic other people have already explored before — it’ll give an idea of how to proceed.

100 Rhetorical Analysis Topics List Developed for You

Still feeling uncertain? It’s not a problem, so there is no need to worry! Take a look at the list we’ve composed below. It has 100 topics you could use for your essay.

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essays Topics

Let’s start with something you won’t have any problems with! Some texts are widely known, so finding research on them isn’t difficult.

  • What literary devices used in “Pride and Prejudice” turn this book into being so popular even now?
  • Literary tactics used within Wordsworth’s poems
  • What symbolism do Harry Potter’s green eyes have?
  • What makes TV Hannibal Lecter’s monologues influential?
  • Fox Mulder’s vs. Dana Scully’s modes of persuasion
  • How true love is depicted in cartoons to resonate with children?
  • Tone of TV Sherlock Holmes & Why he rubs people the wrong way
  • Why are King Arthur’s speeches inspiring within ‘Merlin’ TV show?
  • Describe setting of the Hunger Games & Explain what makes it gruesome
  • Explore choice of dresses in your favorite TV show & Explain what it implies

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Ideas For High School

Good rhetorical analysis essay topics for high school are also pretty easy. Here they are.

  • Frankenstein novel and movies: Their stylistic similarities and differences
  • Why is Ron Weasley less compelling character for many readers/viewers?
  • How setting in ‘Games of Thrones’ reflects its plot
  • Which elements help create the perfect setting in magical realism genre
  • Why are movies usually worse than books they are based on?
  • Harry Potter in the movies vs. books: Differences in portrayal
  • Elements within fiction that inspire fans to write fanfiction on its basis
  • Three stories by Kate Chopin – Their similarities in terms of stylistics
  • Why Romeo and Juliet are still known in our days?
  • Details about secondary characters in “To Kill a Mockingbird”

Rhetorical Essay Prompts For College

How about rhetorical analysis example topics for college? They are a little more complicated, but it just makes them all the more interesting!

  • Your favorite Shakespeare’s poem & Why you like it
  • Role that color green plays in Twilight saga
  • Analyze appearance of vampires from Twilight vs. Interview with a Vampire
  • Compare movies based on Stephen King’s works versus his novels
  • Explore every chilling element in “The Birthmark” by Hawthorne
  • Choose your favorite novel and elaborate on how characters communicate in it
  • Soap operas & Why many people consider characters’ behavior in them exaggerated
  • Setting and conflict in Joyce’s “Ulysses”
  • Analyze the major conflict in Tolstoy’s “War and Peace”
  • Elements of presidency and dictatorship within “Hunger Games”

Non-Fictional Ideas

Analyzing fiction is the most popular choice, but how about rhetorical essay topics on other kinds of works?

  • Trump’s least effective speech: Why was it not successful?
  • Obama’s introduction of new health policies: How did people react?
  • What tactics should ancient kings’ speeches follow to motivate their armies?
  • Surrender speech, its weaknesses & strengths
  • What elements should historical books have to be perceived as convincing?
  • Pathos in real-life stories written by survivors of tragic events
  • How to separate true accounts written by victims from fake ones?
  • Choose any article written by journalist and analyze its efficiency
  • Ethos in reports presented by medical personnel
  • Logos of arguments used by teachers to prove usefulness of their subjects to students

 Rhetorical Topics for Art and Culture

Creative topics for rhetorical analysis essay is something lots of students prefer.

  • Why is Mona Lisa’s smile considered elusive?
  • Painting that stopped you in your tracks
  • Most successful billboards ever created
  • Least effective billboards you have ever seen
  • Song that you consider the best representative of your culture
  • Advertisement that struck a chord with you
  • Can rap be considered American cultural heritage?
  • What makes known blogs popular?
  • Which elements help make a successful ad?
  • What design of an apartment could say about its owner

Ideas for Rhetorical Analysis Essay on Movies

Probably everyone likes movies. If so, these rhetoric topics might be your best pick.

  • Analyze actors’ performance in ‘Titanic’: Is it believable?
  • How do horror movies manage to scare their audience?
  • How fighting scenes in ‘Twilight’ look
  • ‘Saw’ movie: A mindless horror or a chilling thriller?
  • Which version of King Kong is better and why?
  • Analyze the oldest movie and techniques used in it for influencing audience.
  • Which Harry Potter movie is the worst in an entire franchise?
  • Compare versions of ‘Pride & Prejudice’ & State which one stays closest to the original
  • Can we consider “Jurassic Park” impressive in our days?
  • Compare Chinese action movies against American ones

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History Prompts

The past is fascinating, and these rhetorical analysis paper topics could help analyze it more deeply.

  • Pick an old historical figure & Analyze how they became known
  • Winston Churchill: His actions versus his words
  • What people thought about honesty in the past & How did they express it?
  • Why are many important historical documents locked away from the public?
  • Analyze reasons for WW2 based on available historical documents
  • How weddings were organized in the past & What do people do now to express their love?
  • What role symbolism played in Ancient Egypt?
  • People’s dreams of immortality and how they progressed over the years based on literature & art
  • Understanding how Syrian politics promoted war
  • Analyze setting in Troy and reasons that brought war into it

Advanced Rhetorical Ideas

If you like a challenge, check out these more difficult rhetorical essay topic ideas.

  • Portrayal of hope in three different works of art: How did their authors express it?
  • Value and meaning of food as presented in “Hunger Games”
  • What does the Stag man mean in TV show “Hannibal”?
  • Depictions of Mind Palace in “Sherlock” and “Hannibal”
  • Christmas in poor vs. rich families in literature: How are they portrayed?
  • Analyze every speech of Martin Luther King in regard to their effectiveness
  • How animals communicate within different literary works
  • Compare & Contrast leadership strategies of two historically relevant people
  • Why is Mother Teresa talked about still? Delve deeply into reasons
  • Pick two different ambitious people & Evaluate how they fought to realize these ambitions

Enjoy What You Write and Write What You Enjoy

We hope that our list of topics helped find good rhetorical analysis topics. Pick any idea and develop it into a unique essay. Personal involvement means a lot when it comes to analysis, especially of a rhetorical nature. Since it requires taking firm position on a subject, you should have an actual interest in it. Remember what stories you’ve read before, think about the last inspirational or funny speech, and you’re ready to go!

But if something else is bothering you and you don’t feel up to looking for topics for rhetorical analysis, let us know. We’ve been assisting students in different ways including essay, research paper of coursework writing service  for quite a while, so we could help figure out which theme to choose or even craft an essay in your stead. Explain your requirements, talk with your specialist, and get your essay done right by your deadline.

Can’t come up with a topic for you paper? We’ve prepared a collection of essay topics for you

Want to write a winning essay but lack experience? Browse our free essay samples

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Are you having trouble thinking of rhetorical analysis topics to explore? Selecting a title for such an essay is an excellent place to start. Afterward, proceed to introduction, body, and then conclusion. In this section, we have compiled a short list of greatest topics for rhetorical analysis to help you improve your grades. Through the catalog, you will discover how to create best topics for rhetorical analysis essay about a worthwhile issue. Need professional essay help online ? Visit StudyCrumb! Simply share your instructions and get your rhetorical analysis or any other essay completed by a pro.

What Are Rhetorical Analysis Topics?

Rhetorical analysis essay topics refer to the subject matter in which researchers examine how different parts of a work produce a specific effect on the reader. They then develop an argument and find compelling evidence to support their opinion. Such topics focus on a particular work of literature, discourse, or art. Unlike a literary analysis ,  rhetorical analysis paper topics are intended to analyze works from a rhetorical standpoint. Thus, the tricks used to convince readers are assessed. Rhetorical analysis ideas and topics are designed to evaluate students' reasoning ability for close attention to detail. Given this, you should dissect literary work into its elements and assess the author's effective strategies.

Basics of Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Characteristics of Good Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Pick a subject that interests you when selecting topics for analysis. Additionally, it requires adequate information to be used in research. What are good rhetorical analysis topics ? This is one of the questions that students keep asking themselves. Below is a listing of characteristics of good topics for rhetorical analysis. The subject matter must consider the scenario's target audience, goal, and background.

  • It should be broad with plenty of information.
  • A good topic ought to be fascinating. That is to say, it should capture reader’s attention.
  • It must also give an excellent choice for research.

How to Choose a Rhetorical Analysis Topic?

An exciting rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first element in any writing that aims to pique the reader's curiosity. All writers strive to ensure their work is professional and appealing to the audience. Furthermore, the titles must be engaging to make your essay solid. Since finding subjects that are compelling and fascinating might be problematic, here are some tips to keep in mind when deciding on good rhetorical analysis essay topics.

  • Pick a subject that appeals to you. Before composing an analysis paper, choose a topic that interests you. Moreover, make sure there is room for research.
  • Consider your understanding of the topic. Selecting familiar rhetorical essay topics will be helpful in your writing. Remember to reveal your understanding of the author's writing technique when conducting the review.
  • Carry out background research. Make a list of subjects that catch your attention. After that, whittle down the selection and choose an ideal topic. You can achieve this by investigating the information that is already accessible on it.
  • Seek help from your instructor. Ask your lecturer for assistance if you are still unsure of the subject. Compile a list of appropriate rhetorical analysis topics to make it easy for the educator.

Best Rhetorical Analysis Topics List

The best rhetorical analysis topics are pertinent to tasks and have sufficient information for use. When handling these essays, choose an engaging subject to make the assignment more doable. Topics for study are not limited to speeches from notable presidents or popular poems. Investigate these interesting rhetorical analysis essay ideas related to cinema, artwork, prompt, and current affairs.

  • Justification of vengeance in The Odyssey .
  • The meaning underlying Mona Lisa’s smile.
  • Literary techniques used in The Chronicles of Narnia .
  • The primary theme in Winston Churchill's We Shall Fight on the Beaches .
  • How stylistic tactics affect a reader's impression of non-fiction material.
  • Purpose of literary devices in Oscar Wilde 's works.
  • How a creative topic and storyline might make a blockbuster.
  • What was the main point in president Trump's speech?
  • How to tell if a play uses the right rhetorical tactics.
  • What prevents speeches from garnering bigger crowds?

Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Perhaps you are seeking good topics to write rhetorical analysis on for your academic article. Good topics for rhetorical analysis essay are listed here.

  • How the use of casual and formal language influences speech.
  • Different rhetorical techniques used by Classical and Rogerian authors.
  • How preconceptions might limit successful application of rhetorical techniques.
  • Significance of abstract images within classical literature.
  • How literary works communicate information via words, expressions, and concepts.
  • Slavery, as discussed in Beloved by Toni Morrison.
  • What do Pepsi's logo colors symbolize?
  • How President Joe Biden utilized alliteration in his speech on democracy.
  • Linguistic trends in William Shakespeare's publications.
  • How former president Barack Obama applied logos, pathos, and ethos in his farewell speech.
  • A comprehensive rhetorical analysis of The Odyssey .
  • How to use stylistic techniques in a way that can foresee the audience's response.
  • Visual components of Hollywood filmmaking.
  • A criticism of the hyperbole of how innovation has affected culture.
  • Analysis of president Joe Biden's speech on democracy.

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Easy Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Do you wish to focus on easy rhetorical analysis topics? If so, you will discover some of the most effective suggestions in this paragraph. These subjects are easy to write about since information is readily available on the web. Nevertheless, you must be prepared to devote time and resources to studying and composing your easy rhetorical analysis essay topics.

  • How the American national anthem employs literary techniques.
  • TED's presentations and how they embrace rhetorical devices to entice viewers.
  • How writers approach themes of ethnicity and discrimination in their writing.
  • Differences between employment of stylistic elements in historical and contemporary cultures.
  • How linguistic strategies are used in religious books.
  • The difficulty of captivating an audience to a monologue.
  • Various rhetorical strategies that media presenters employ.
  • How can rhetorical depth of any discourse be identified?
  • How various authors handle heroism topics when it comes to their writing.
  • The significance of symbolism with regards to literature.
  • How Michael Scott applies rhetorical techniques.
  • R&B songwriting strategies.
  • Advertiser-selected terminologies on billboards and posters.
  • Creative methods used in the renowned portrait of Mona Lisa .
  • Rhetoric elements used in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Excellent Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

If you wish to focus on excellent rhetorical essay topics, below are a few you can select from. You only need to decide which rhetorical topics for essays to use.

  • How successful was Barack Obama’s speech during his presidency?
  • Use of stylistic devices in Nike’s Just Do It ad.
  • How does education stifle creative thinking?
  • A speech or piece that uses oratorical tactics.
  • How authors characterize heroism.
  • Rhetorical analysis of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
  • The effect of rhetorical techniques on reader’s comprehension of a non-fiction story.
  • Brand identity and emotional appeal of Monster drink.
  • Impact of President Trump's tweets.
  • Literary devices utilized in eulogy speeches.
  • Relationship between racial discrimination and sexism in America.
  • Pepsi's marketing ideas.
  • A billboard that got your attention.
  • A rhetorical review of President Trump's tweets.

Did you spot a fitting topic? Now it’s time to see how to write a rhetorical analysis essay . 

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Visual rhetorical analysis topic ideas might help readers recollect your paper. Consider the author's objective and demographics of the intended audience, as it will aid you in conducting complete research. The visual rhetoric essay topics suggestions below can help you achieve that aim.

  • Effects of soundtracks on movies.
  • Newspaper covers using rhetoric aspects.
  • How innovative advertising employs symbols.
  • Rhetorical evaluation of exhibits in art galleries.
  • How slow motion affects films.
  • Use of symbolism in Avatar .
  • William Shakespeare's best poems.
  • How Black Panther utilizes symbolism.
  • Use of arts in The Square .
  • How TV commercials employ texts.
  • Author's utilization of personification in Bluebird by Charles Bukowski.
  • Usage of audio, music, and narrative in presentations.
  • How does John Curran utilize imagery in The Painted Veil .
  • Ways in which Michael Lewis uses cinematography and soundtracks in The Blind Side .
  • How Jurassic Park transformed special effects.

Need more rhetorical topics? Give our Essay Title Creator a shot!

Controversial Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

If you consider debate intriguing, this part includes the best suggestions for rhetorical topics for essay. When composing scholarly articles, these rhetorical analysis topics are outstanding. Just do some research on the piece carefully and comprehend the debate.

  • Use of stereotypes and racial tropes in films.
  • Representation of science and technology in science fiction.
  • Religion and spirituality in Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life.
  • The portrayal of mental health issues in popular culture.
  • Violence and its impact on society in Avatar.
  • Propaganda in the Triumph of the Will .
  • The Notebook and its illustration of love and friendships.
  • Schindler’s List and how it explains the Holocaust.
  • Dark humor as used in Catch-22 .
  • Police brutality and racial injustice in Copwatch .
  • Immigration and border control in A Better Life .
  • Rhetorical techniques affect how a reader interprets a non-fiction story.
  • Plot twist in The Titanic .
  • Is there something about William Shakespeare's writing style that really appeals to you?
  • How does the audience's impression of the story be affected by the author's credibility?

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Ideas for Students

The success of all academic writing depends on utilizing rhetorical analysis ideas efficiently. This is because the foundation of everything undertaken within schools is to influence thought patterns through speech application. Since language is typically hypnotic, it aims to educate. It is uncommon for students to avoid writing research papers on rhetorical analysis, as they appear as projects, articles, and term papers. Here are a few essay propositions for high school and university learners.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School Students

Topics for a rhetorical analysis essay are many. If you are a secondary school student having problems deciding on rhetorical analysis topics to select from, you are in the right place. Here are 15 essay topics for high school.

  • Use of metaphor in a speech from your school director on graduation day.
  • Main themes used in Alice in Wonderland .
  • Rhetorical devices used in The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin .
  • How Arthur Miller uses foreshadowing in Death of a Salesman .
  • Literary elements used in An Enemy of the People .
  • Central concepts within William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.
  • Theme of social class in The Canterbury Tales .
  • Power of tradition as illustrated in The Lottery.
  • Fundamental concepts of Jordan Peele's Get Out .
  • Literary elements used in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.
  • How Virginia Woolf utilizes the stream-of-consciousness tactic in The Waves .
  • How analogy is used in the inauguration speech of my math teacher.
  • Guilt and justice as discussed in And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie.
  • Synopsis of The Godfather by Francis Ford Coppola.
  • Major theme in Gone With The Wind .

 Rhetorical Analysis Topics for College Students

College students can choose from a wide range of rhetoric research paper topics. They will greatly gain from these analysis paper ideas in the last year of school. Below are essential topics that college learners can select for their essays.

  • How solitude is demonstrated within works of literature.
  • Poetic devices in performances and poems.
  • How does rhetoric function in websites and other digital writing?
  • Methods that can be used to evaluate a scene from a popular film.
  • Main themes in The Matrix .
  • Strength of speech writing in Barack Obama's speeches.
  • Michael Scott's primary writing techniques.
  • A movie that had a massive impact on your life.
  • A significant political discourse that is still discussed today.
  • How Rick Bragg uses comedy in his article The Guiltless Pleasure .
  • What justifications does David Grann make in The Mark of a Masterpiece ?
  • Stylistic devices used in The Crucible by Arthur Miller.
  • How using literary techniques has been streamlined thanks to technology.
  • What elements are commonly found in acceptance speeches?
  • How evangelists utilize rhetoric to engage their audiences.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics in Different Fields

There are many distinct and good topics to write a rhetorical analysis on. It is improbable that one could ever run out of ideas for them when writing any paper. Aside from the topics mentioned above, numerous other fields, for instance, speeches and fiction work, can be explored. Arts are the primary focus of the bulk of these rhetorical subjects. In addition, there are many resources to choose your topics for rhetorical analysis. This section provides examples of other fields that can be traversed.

Rhetorical Analysis Speech Topics

There have been many famous speeches throughout history. To analyze one, you need to consider different aspects of rhetoric topics. For example, the speaker's goals, the speech's historical text, and viewer's aspirations. Here are a handful of topics that can be explored for rhetorical analysis of a speech .

  • Quit India speech by Mahatma Gandhi.
  • How President Donald Trump utilized personification in his final speech.
  • Figures of speech that Richard Nixon employed in his resignation speech.
  • President Biden 's remarks on transgender issues.
  • Malala Yousafzai's acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize.
  • Dark and vengeful undertones in William Blake's A Poison Tree .
  • How to get people to pay attention to Franklin Roosevelt's inaugural speech.
  • The majority of TED speeches use rhetorical tactics.
  • Literary devices used within the speech from Finding Forrester .
  • Discursive strategies used in Jack Ma's inspiring speech.
  • Tones used in Theodore Roosevelt's Duties of American citizenship .
  • Rhetorical devices utilized in JF. Kennedy's inauguration speech.
  • What were the goals of Ronald Reagan's Speech in Address to the Nation on the Challenger ?
  • Oprah's appraisal of Golden Globes' discourse.
  • How does Sam Bern’s outlook on life affect his ability to communicate in My Philosophy for a Happy Life ?

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas on Movies

Do you enjoy watching movies? Has your teacher given you freedom to select them as one of the rhetorical analysis essay ideas? If yes, you can look into some of the points on this list, which provide rhetorical analysis article ideas. In certain films, an individual makes a speech that everybody remembers. Whatever the case, taking observations is necessary for performing rhetorical assessment of movies discourse.

  • Black Panther’s application of literary devices.
  • How the film's author employs a rhetorical tactic in How To Train Your Dragon .
  • Salvatore Corsitta's remarks from The Godfather .
  • Use of imagery by Zack Snyder.
  • The Hunger Games’ use of figurative language.
  • Rhetorical devices used in Pursuit of Happiness .
  • Theme of hope in The Ultimate Gift .
  • The movie Get Out racial theme.
  • Moral standards as depicted in Gone Baby Gone .
  • How racism led to different issues in A Soldier's Story .
  • Concept of posttraumatic stress disorder as illustrated in Fearless movie .
  • Lessons from Life of a King movie.
  • Ethical behaviors as encapsulated by Charles Ferguson.
  • Main themes of Mind, Body, and Soul .
  • Power theme in My Kingdom .

Poetry Topics for Rhetorical Analysis

A plethora of topics to write a rhetorical analysis on is available online, and poem is among the unique subjects that can be explored. To analyze poetry, you need to consider the speaker, rhyme’s meaning, and structure. The following are distinct rhetorical analysis paper topics that students can use.

  • Primary metaphors used by Sylvia Plath .
  • Theme of rage and evil in A Poison Tree .
  • Primary rhetorical strategies employed by W.H.Auden.
  • How personification is used in Bluebird.
  • Concept of nature in Mary Oliver's Fall .
  • Function of contrast in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings .
  • Role of street jargon as illustrated by Langstone Hughes.
  • Stylistic elements used by Jane Kenyon.
  • Poetic devices used in Disillusionment of Ten O'clock .
  • Primary theme in Love Song .
  • How the author employed poetic devices in Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night .
  • Self-acceptance as illustrated in Phenomenal Woman .
  • Characteristics of the speaker as explained by Claude McKay.
  • Illustration of love in A Red, Red Rose .
  • Artistic devices used by William Shakespeare in Venus and Adonis .

Literature Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Are you searching for rhetorical analysis essay topics that will make your instructor smile? If that is the case, here are some fantastic ideas for rhetorical analysis.

  • Early literature from the 17th century.
  • Faith and religion in the Quran.
  • How to tell if a drama employs correct figures of speech.
  • An in-depth review of rhetorical tactics used in France and Europe.
  • Techniques used in Michelle Obama's Our Diversity Makes Us Who We Are .
  • Literary tactics used by Melania Trump in her farewell address as the first lady.
  • Textual analysis of A Lover's Complaint by William Shakespeare.
  • Theme of misogyny in Hamlet .
  • Central message in Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.
  • Impact of heroes' personal lives on the society in Oedipus and contemporary America.
  • Myth's influence on culture as explained in Adam and Eve’s story.
  • Metaphors used in the legendary speech made by Martin Luther.
  • What figurative language stands out in The Pearl Harbor Address ?
  • Humanity vs. Nature in Their Eyes Were Watching God .
  • Justice in Scott Fitzgerald's Great Gatsby .

Rhetorical Analysis Topics on Fiction

Like all rhetorical topics, fiction has a point it wants to convey. You might consider how you reacted to the fiction content as a reader. Therefore, if you enjoy reading or watching fictional characters, feel free to choose any rhetorical analysis essay topic below.

  • One Hundred Years of Solitude's elitist theme.
  • Central themes in Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer .
  • How The Alchemist presents character growth.
  • How Erin Morgenstern created varied personalities in The Night Circus .
  • Behavior as illustrated by Jesse Stuart.
  • How Code Name Verity delivers its message of friendship.
  • Depiction of war in Men At Arms .
  • Significance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • How relevant is Macbeth in the modern era?
  • What linguistic techniques does Ayn Rand use?
  • What distinguishes A Room of One's Own from other books?
  • Major themes in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  • Mysterious language as used by Beatriz Williams.
  • How The Lord of the Flies explores conflict between civilization and barbarism.
  • Writing styles used in The Midnight Library .

Non-Fictional Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Non-fiction works are those that are fact-based. When analyzing them, examine the environmental components surrounding rhetorical analysis paper topics. If you enjoy non-fictional topics for a rhetorical analysis, consider using these ideas.

  • Rhetorical techniques in Cold Blood .
  • What was the plot in Charlie Chaplin's speech from The Great Dictator ?
  • Use of allegory in Avengers: Endgame .
  • Traveling Mercies ' rhetoric techniques.
  • How Someday Maybe utilizes personification.
  • Theme of racism in Absolute Beginners .
  • How Ron Chernow explores the concept of triumph in Alexander Hamilton .
  • Stylistic elements in Out of Africa .
  • John Hersey's linguistic interpretation of the suffering in Hiroshima .
  • Themes explored in the Sermons .
  • Religious beliefs according to The Ethics of Belief by William Kingdom.
  • How Mohsin Hamid explores themes of love and turmoil in Exit West .
  • Stylistic techniques in A Brief History of Time .
  • What motivates bibliophiles to read Beloved?
  • Theme of fanaticism in Fever Pitch .

Rhetorical Analysis Topics About Advertisements

The main goal of any advertisement is to convince the audience. Therefore, a successful campaign forges a bond between the client and the product. When exploring rhetorical analysis essay topics, consider the general appeal of the advertisement. Additionally, take into account the target audience and rhetorical techniques. You can choose rhetorical analysis topic ideas from this list.

  • Examples of innovative and powerful advertising.
  • BluBlocker Sunglasses marketing campaign.
  • Advertising's ability to reach a particular audience.
  • Impact of advertising on brand recognition.
  • Effectiveness of Coca-Cola’s share a coke advertisements of 2018.
  • Central idea behind Red Bull's Giving Life to the Night ad.
  • How effective is Apple's Think Different ad.
  • Was Toyota Moving Forward campaign a success?
  • Success behind Disney's The happiest place on Earth tagline.
  • How does Samsung advertise products?
  • How are rhetorical tactics used in television advertising?
  • Effectiveness of Pepsi's video campaigns.
  • Use of logos, ethos, and pathos in MacBook commercials.
  • How do advertisers choose the language that appears on billboards and posters?
  • History of Fanta's effective utilization of advertising.

>> Read more: Marketing Topics for Research

Bottom Line on Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Many of you ask a common question: "what is a good topic for a rhetorical analysis essay?" Feel inclined to utilize any rhetorical analysis topics highlighted in this blog article to write a top-notch essay.   Hopefully, you have found a suitable topic. Feel free to browse our blog for more analytical essay topics and writing tips. From process analysis essay topics to critical analysis essay writing suggestions, we have a bunch of useful guides for students. 

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How to Write Rhetorical Analysis

120 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

When examining a non-fiction piece of content, be it literature, advertising, media promotions, or some other element of the written word, the term rhetorical analysis essay may be used.

This essay format examines the creator’s intentions and techniques to persuade the audience of a particular course of action or a specific train of thought. The rhetorical analysis essay also looks at how this message is delivered from the standpoint of style and tone, as well as other elements, including statistics, facts, anecdotes, and figures.

In its simplest definition, a rhetorical analysis essay is an article that has been written to examine the effectiveness of a content creator’s techniques and whether those techniques reach the intended goal.

Beyond the strict formatting and stylistic writing elements mandatory for this type of essay writing, students may find themselves challenged to create a topic that is interesting and relevant to analyze.

However, this list of 120 rhetorical analysis essay topics along with a guide on the critical elements of writing a rhetorical analysis essay will ensure that every student assigned this task can complete it successfully.

A Guide to Writing an Effective Essay on Rhetoric

One definition of rhetoric refers to the art or system of writing and speaking that seeks to persuade or convince an audience using effective, productive techniques.

A rhetorical analysis essay examines Aristotle’s three modes of persuasion: ethos, pathos, and logos, to determine which was used most effectively.

Ethos examines an author’s character and credibility. In a rhetorical analysis essay, the writer must assess whether or not the author has established trustworthiness through personal appearance and lifestyle choices, as well as educational background and career accomplishments.

This element of rhetoric is also known as logic. It examines how effectively someone’s argument makes sense to an audience. This includes statistics, facts, figures, and other information meant to support a central thesis.

This element of rhetoric involves an author’s use of emotionally-charged language to sway the audience. This includes the use of anecdotes, analogies, humor, and other details that tug at the audience’s emotions as opposed to their logic or reasoning skills.

One or all of these elements may be used in a rhetorical analysis essay, but the writer needs to determine which was used most effectively.

How to Write a Rhetorical Essay?

When it comes to writing a rhetorical analysis essay, students will want to ensure that they cover the five aspects of a rhetorical situation:

The writer of any rhetorical analysis essay must determine the purpose of their message and whether or not it has been accomplished through their use of ethos, logos, and pathos in the target audience’s best interest.

2. Audience

The writer of a rhetorical analysis essay must also assess their audience and what that audience may understand or expect based on prior socialization and knowledge of the topic.

The writer of a rhetorical analysis essay must also determine what genre they are writing in, be it argumentative or expository. This dictates the type of information they will need to include in their essay and which elements of rhetoric they may focus on most effectively.

The writer of a rhetorical analysis essay must establish credibility and trustworthiness. This is done by establishing one’s ethos and refuting opposing arguments to show that their argument is the most logical and well-reasoned.

What are the means of persuasion used in the essay? The writer must establish credibility by using logical arguments and evidence to support their claims and separate themselves from the opposition through refutation and deflection.

Outlining a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rather than try to write a rhetorical analysis essay from scratch, it’s best to create an outline of the main points that will need to be covered in the essay to ensure that the writing stays on track. Outlines should include:

  • Introduction – Designed to hook the reader by providing context and background information for the topic. This should also include a strong thesis that will be supported throughout the rest of the essay.
  • Body – Includes three to five paragraphs that support that thesis with logical arguments and empirical evidence.
  • Conclusion – A brief paragraph summarizes the main idea and relates it to the introduction for a nice clean finish. It should end with a powerful or thought-provoking statement of the overall impact of the non-fictional content being examined.

With the fundamentals of a rhetorical analysis essay above and the many rhetorical analysis essay topics below, students should be well equipped to write a stellar rhetorical analysis essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About English & Literature

  • Shakespeare’s use imagery to support theme and mood in “Othello”
  • The impact of the narrator’s tone on meaning and tone in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird
  • The use of foreshadowing in “Frankenstein”
  • How Shakespeare uses the dramatic structure to influence the meaning and tone of Romeo and Juliet
  • How Edgar Allan Poe builds suspense in The Tell-Tale Heart
  • The use of irony in The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald
  • Analyzing the mood created through imagery used in Taming of the Shrew by Shakespeare
  • The effect of symbolism in “Catcher in the Rye”
  • How J. D. Salinger uses language to influence meaning and tone in The Catcher in the Rye
  • Analyzing how William Blake creates a mood through imagery in Auguries of Innocence
  • Menippean satire used in Tristram Shandy by Laurence Sterne
  • The use of symbolism in “The Picture of Dorian Gray”
  • Disillusionment and cynicism encountered through dialogue and setting in The Great Gatsby
  • Irony used to reveal theme and tone in Animal Farm by George Orwell
  • How Louisa May Alcott establishes a mood and tone with descriptive language in “Little Women”
  • Analyzing symbolism throughout Hamlet by Shakespeare
  • The effect of setting on tone and mood in Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
  • Language used to create a tone of alienation in 1984 by George Orwell
  • Foreshadowing in Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
  • Symbolism throughout The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
  • The effects of genetic modification on individuality in Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
  • A comparison of individualism vs. collectivism in novels “Fahrenheit 451” and The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genetic engineering’s impact on identity in Gattaca by Andrew Niccol
  • Impact of the dramatic structure on tone and mood in The Crucible, Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Hamlet by William Shakespeare
  • How Stephen Crane uses symbolism to develop theme and tone in his short story “The Open Boat”
  • The symbolism used to create atmosphere in “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
  • The symbolism used to enhance tone and mood in Hamlet by William Shakespeare
  • How Dr. Seuss uses word choice, imagery, and rhyme to create a tone of whimsy in Green Eggs and Ham
  • Analyzing the use of hyperbole throughout Animal Farm by George Orwell
  • A comparison of the tone and mood created in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee and “1984” by George Orwell
  • Use of symbolism to enhance theme in Nightfall by Isaac Asimov

Rhetorical Essay Topics About Famous Speeches

  • Rhetorical analysis of “Mr. Gorbachev, Tear Down This Wall!”
  • The impact of King’s rhetorical strategies on the Civil Rights Movement
  • Rhetorical Analysis on Ronald Reagan Speech on Challenger Disaster
  • How does Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s rhetoric build tension to create an aura of despair for African Americans in his “I Have a Dream” speech?
  • Analyzing the impact of Winston Churchill’s rhetoric on England during World War II
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” Speech
  • How effective was Lincoln’s use of logos, ethos, and pathos in his Second Inaugural Address?
  • The influence of Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s “Solitude of Self” speech on the women’s rights movement
  • The effectiveness of John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address in creating a new generation of American citizens
  • How effective was Malcolm X’s “Message to the Grass Roots” speech in gaining black nationalistic pride?
  • How does JFK contribute to the Cold War rhetorical strategies used in his Address at American University?
  • Analysis on George W. Bush’s address to Congress after September 11, 2001
  • George H. W. Bush’s speech on the Gulf War being a New World Order
  • Analyzing Barack Obama’s 2008 Democratic National Convention Speech
  • Analyzing Donald Trump’s Inaugural Address as President of the United States
  • How does Barack Obama differ from Donald Trump in his use of rhetorical strategies?
  • What makes the most effective presidential inaugural address, and why do you believe so?
  • The use of inflection throughout Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech
  • Structure and content of the Gettysburg Address by Abraham Lincoln
  • The effect of Taft’s “A Time for Action” speech on his campaign
  • How effective was Woodrow Wilson’s “Fourteen Points” speech in ending World War I?
  • Presidential rhetoric used to push America into WWI, WWII, and Vietnam
  • Using a rhetorical analysis of a presidential speech to analyze the effectiveness of a president’s administration
  • Presidential rhetoric used to justify U.S. involvement in WWII
  • How effective was FDR’s use of pathos and ethos in his “Day of Infamy” speech?
  • Rhetorical analysis of President Reagan’s “Star Wars” speech and its effect on the Cold War
  • The effect of FDR’s “Four Freedoms” speech and whether it achieved its goal
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of President Nixon’s Vietnamization program

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About T.V. & Film

  • How effective is the symbolism used in Steven Spielberg’s “Saving Private Ryan?”
  • A rhetorical analysis of Andrew Niccol’s “Lord of War” film
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove”
  • The effectiveness of Spielberg’s incorporation of the Holocaust into his films through a rhetorical analysis
  • Rhetorical analysis on the symbolism in Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel”
  • The symbolism used to create atmosphere in the opening scene of Ridley Scott’s “Alien”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of the symbolism in Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar”
  • The effect on the Cold War brought about by Hans Zimmer’s score for Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar
  • What is Spielberg trying to communicate about American values through his use of symbolism in E.T.?
  • A rhetorical analysis of the effectiveness of “The Hunger Games” film series in communicating its message to society
  • Rhetorical Analysis on Spielberg’s use of symbolism in “War Horse”
  • How does Pixar’s movie Up contribute to the discussion over euthanasia?
  • Rhetorical analysis on how Shrek communicates modern values through its story and symbolism
  • Using a rhetorical analysis to determine whether or not the symbolism in “300” is empowering for women
  • How does Tarantino’s use of violence contribute to his films’ success?
  • The effect of negative imagery as used by Tyler Perry within the opening scene of “For Colored Girls.”
  • The impact on society from Quentin Tarantino’s use of violence within his films
  • The effect on society from the impact Quentin Tarantino’s use of violence has had on Hollywood.
  • Analysis of how effective it is for Tyler Perry to include dialogue and monologue within his films
  • How does the opening scene of “12 Years a Slave” contribute to the discussion about race relations in America?
  • A rhetorical analysis of Quentin Tarantino’s dialogue in “Pulp Fiction”
  • The effect that the symbolism in David Fincher’s “Fight Club” film has on society
  • How does art house director Terrence Malick communicate the effects of war through a rhetorical analysis of his film, The Thin Red Line?
  • Rhetorical Analysis on Terrence Malick’s use of symbolism in “The Thin Red Line”
  • Rhetorical analysis of Quentin Tarantino’s view on violence as communicated through his films
  • Analyzing the impact that the film, American Sniper, had on society regarding the War on Terror
  • Analyzing how effective David Fincher is at directing horror films through a rhetorical analysis of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
  • A rhetorical analysis of Tarantino’s dialogue in Django Unchained and its effect on race relations in America
  • The effectiveness of David Fincher’s use of violence as a plot device in “Gone Girl”

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About Advertising & Marketing

  • How does the symbolism in Apple’s 1984 commercial influence its effectiveness?
  • A rhetorical analysis of Chrysler’s Super Bowl ad, “Halftime in America”
  • The symbolism used to communicate ideas about marriage in Nike’s 2013 commercial, “The Next Wave”
  • The effect that the symbolisms used in Nike’s “Unlimited” commercial have on society
  • How does Honda use rhetoric to influence the American public through its Fitnation campaign?
  • Analyzing Adidas’ World Cup 2014 ad and how it works to sell Germany as a nation of winners.
  • Using a rhetorical analysis to determine what effect the symbolism used in Nike’s “I am Tiger Woods” commercial has on society
  • A rhetorical analysis of how the strategy used by Beats by Dre in their #HearWhatYouWant campaign works to influence the public
  • A rhetorical analysis of the effectiveness for McDonald’s in its “I’m Lovin’ it” campaign
  • Analyzing how Skittles uses symbolism in its commercial entitled, “#TasteTheRainbow.”
  • A rhetorical analysis of Burger King’s use of a social media hashtag, #EatLikeAndy to market its product.
  • The effectiveness of the symbolism used in Adidas’ “All In For #BETRUE” campaign
  • Analyzing how effective Burger King’s use of social media was in their “Whopper Sacrifice” campaign
  • The effect that the use of Sean Bean as a spokesperson has on Samsung’s product, Galaxy Note 3.
  • How effective is Red Bull at using symbolism to market its product?

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics About Arts & Entertainment

  • Analysis of how effective Iggy Pop is as a frontman in the music video “The Passenger”
  • Rhetorical analysis on what makes Nirvana’s performance in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” so significant and influential
  • A rhetorical analysis of Jay-Z’s use of symbolism, imagery, and irony to communicate ideas in his music video for “Big Pimpin”
  • An analysis of how effective Tupac’s use of symbolism and rhetoric was in “Brenda’s Got a Baby” to communicate what life was like for African American women.
  • Analyzing the effectiveness of Kendrick Lamar’s use of language and metaphor in his song, “Swimming Pools (Drank)”
  • Rhetorical analysis on the symbolism and irony present in Jay-Z’s music video “99 Problems”
  • The use of irony found in Beyonce’s song, “Partition”
  • Analyzing how effective U2 was at using lyrics to communicate ideas about politics and justice.
  • How does director David Lynch communicate violence and evil through a rhetorical analysis of his film, Blue Velvet?
  • The effectiveness of Tupac’s use of irony and symbolism in his song, “Changes”
  • A rhetorical analysis on how effective Antonio Canova was at communicating ideas about the past through a statue commissioned by Napoleon.
  • How does Van Gogh’s Starry Night communicate ideas about the interaction between light, darkness, and the world as a whole?
  • A rhetorical analysis of how effective Prometheus Rising is at communicating its point through symbolism and irony.
  • How effective is The Beatles’ song “Eleanor Rigby” at using symbolism to make its point about life and loneliness?
  • An analysis of Iron Maiden’s music video for “Number of the Beast” and how it works to communicate its point through symbolism and imagery.
  • A rhetorical analysis on the effectiveness of using sexuality as a plot device in “Pretty Woman.”
  • A rhetorical analysis on the use of irony and humor that is found in Miley Cyrus’ song, “We Can’t Stop.”

Rhetorical essays can effectively teach students how to analyze, understand and separate rhetorical elements of writing, speaking, and presenting the material. Be sure to combine these essay topics with the writing guide above to ensure that you get the grade you need on your rhetorical essay to pass your course and earn a degree.

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics: 20 Best Examples to Use

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by  Antony W

September 13, 2022

rhetorical analysis essay topics list

Between the thousands of over-analyzed rhetorical analysis essay topics and innumerable more that are too complicated to write about, it is usually a challenge to pick a good one. 

Ideally, you want a topic that is so common enough that it needs little introduction, yet unique so that your essay is fresh and outstanding.

Some innovative fellows manage to come up with fresh twists on old topics, but this isn't always possible.

We will explore some of the best rhetorical analysis topics to use in your essay, as well as how to choose one when presented with a list of possible ideas.

Qualities of a Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topic

A rhetorical analysis essay is a critical evaluation of how a communicator puts their point across and what linguistic devices they employ to do that.

You will be looking at how they manipulate words to achieve the desired effect.

Therefore, the most basic quality is that the work you choose to analyze must be highly compelling and influential as proof of its effectiveness.

This is partly why most students and experts alike choose to stick to world-famous classics. However, that doesn't mean there aren't great works to make interesting topics elsewhere.

Here are the things to watch out for when selecting work for a rhetorical analysis essay.

The topic you choose needs to be fresh if it is to excite any interest.

 Your instructor has probably seen hundreds of essays, if not thousands. 

If you want to impress them, either have a fresh angle or pick one that is not already picked to the bone by other students.

You have probably heard this before: a topic that is not too specific, neither too broad.

You want it to be just right for your essay. 

One that is too wide will need extensive research before you can have enough background to write authoritatively.

One that is too focused will not give you enough material to work with.

3. Personal Interest

Choose a topic that you can relate to or that intrigues you. It might be a favorite writer, a respected orator, a movie you particularly enjoyed, or an all-time top song.

That way, you are assured of enjoying the writing process all the way through and your authenticity will shine through the writing.

You can also choose a topic that is part of your job, a hobby, or that you are well-versed in. It will give you a head start and save time on research.

4. Appeal to Your Audience

Remember that you are writing for an audience and that you expect a good grade out of it.

Think about what kind of topics your instructor would like or at least not object to.

If you will be presenting it in class, go for a topic that your classmates will enjoy.

5. Strong and Clear Arguments

A bland topic will have almost no material for you to write about.

A plain text, speech, video, or other communication will be too dry for you to properly write about.

It will be much better for you if you use one with strong arguments, flowery language, and obvious mastery of literary skills.

This rules out academic and scholarly works because they tend to use dry language without bias.

Bias is what will give you fuel, and the arguments for or against them will form a big part of your essay.

6. Relevance to Contemporary Issues

Review a work that is still relevant to today's issues and controversial topics because those will always draw interest.

7. Well Known Or Common

Choose a topic or work that is famous enough that you don't have to introduce it to your audience in the essay.

If you go for one that is obscure or too new, you will have to give a full breakdown to get the reader on the same page with you.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing Help 

Help for Assessments offers lots of useful material to students at all levels, but we don’t stop there.  We will write your rhetorical analysis essay for you and handle any other academic assignment or project you have.

All you need to do is leave us an order, and our outstanding experts will get on it at once.

How to Choose Rhetorical Analysis Topics  

Choosing topics for a rhetorical analysis essay is not very different compared to choosing other essay topics.

You will start with a general topic, narrow it down to an appropriate one that fulfills the above qualities, and select a work covering that topic on which to write the essay.

Please note that fictional works don’t do very well when it comes to rhetorical analysis, so it’s best to avoid them from the get-go.

The same applies to comedic and funny works unless they are meant to address serious and relevant issues in society.

1. Define your objectives

Remember that the objectives for writing a rhetorical analysis essay are different from those of other essays.

You are not trying to prove or disprove the work or even build upon it in any way.

Your main goal is to show that you understand how the communicator uses various tools and techniques to compel or influence the reader.

You might also be looking to prove to your instructor that you can think critically, read between the lines, and perhaps unearth hidden messages.

Defining these objectives is your first step.

2. Brainstorm Topic Ideas

Explore various avenues to get possible ideas for your topic.

These days, you can gather ideas pretty quickly online, especially through platforms such as this one.

You can also watch videos, listen to speeches or podcasts, or even just ask friends, family, and strangers on online forums. Gather all the ideas you get and write them down.

3. Select One or Two that Meet the Criteria

It will be easy to eliminate some of the ideas you have gathered: they are too common, irrelevant, obscure, or challenging.

With the remaining ones, assess them against the given criteria.

You will often come across one or two that appeal strongly to you, so give them special consideration.

4. Look Into Available Research

Whether you have narrowed down to the one you are looking for or not, this stage is essential.

You will want to check on what data is currently available to support your chosen topic.

This is also where you will be checking to see if that topic is too wide, too narrow, or too common.

If you come across any problem here, a change of approach or topic will be easier than having to do it later.

5. Find Works that Interest You Within Your Discipline

For college assignments, you will mostly be reviewing books, articles, and journals.

However, you might also be given speeches, videos, movies, songs, and even pieces of art to analyze.

Other instructors will give you the freedom to choose.

Whichever the case, now is the time to pick out the right work and make sure that it is expressive and rich enough to review.

With this plan, you will find it much easier to select great topics for your rhetorical essay.

Sometimes you may have to mix up the steps a bit, but it’s still a great plan.

We have used it to come up with lots of great sample topics that we are now going to share with you.

20+ Example Topics for Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Brainstorm ideas.

  • A new writer, orator, or famous leader you find impactful.
  • A speech or article from a president, CEO, Nobel prize winner, or other respected people.
  • A world-famous movie.
  • A book that influenced your life greatly.
  • Contrasting different writers on a topic, e.g, feminism or ethics.
  • How a certain theme is explored in literature or contemporary media e.g. role of a man as a father figure, hope, ambition, etc.
  • One of the lesser-known classics such as Little Big Man by Thomas Berger.
  • A less-known poem from a famous poet.
  • An influential political work.
  • A scene or part from a dramatic movie, video, or even news on mainstream media.
  • A favorite blogger, vlogger, or Instagram star.
  • The inaugural address of a president.
  • A sermon from a favorite preacher.
  • A monologue from a famous play, e.g. Shakespear.
  • Acceptance speech during an award, e.g. Pink’s acceptance speech in the 2017 VMA awards.

Sample Topics

  • Charlie Chaplin’s famous speech The Great Dictator.
  • Obama’s “ A More Perfect Union.”
  • Obama’s inaugural address in 2009.
  • Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford commencement speech.
  • The movie Thank You for Smoking.
  • Superbowl ads (choose one effective one) or any other timeless ad.
  • Plato’s Republic.
  • Mona Lisa’s smile (if you are very good at art and can fill 4 pages with it.)
  • Silent Voices in Three Poems.
  • Charles Spurgeon sermons.
  • Clifford’s The Ethics of Belief.
  • The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien.
  • A poem by Edgar Allan Poe, Raven. 
  • Analyze the theme of loyalty in Barn Burning by William Faulkner.
  • Discuss solitude in literature.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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120 Rhetoric Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Rhetoric is the art of persuasion through language, and writing a rhetoric essay can help you improve your skills in crafting compelling arguments. To help you get started, here are 120 rhetoric essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your next assignment:

  • The role of rhetoric in political speeches
  • Analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech
  • The use of ethos, pathos, and logos in advertising
  • How social media has changed rhetoric in modern society
  • The impact of language on shaping public opinion
  • The ethics of persuasion in rhetoric
  • The power of storytelling in persuasive communication
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping cultural norms
  • Rhetorical strategies in persuasive writing
  • The use of rhetorical devices in famous literature
  • The influence of rhetoric on public policy
  • The art of persuasion in debate
  • The use of rhetoric in historical speeches
  • The role of rhetoric in legal arguments
  • How rhetoric is used in marketing and branding
  • The impact of visual rhetoric in media messages
  • The use of rhetoric in public speaking
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public perception of social issues
  • The influence of rhetoric on popular culture
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical appeals in argumentative writing
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public discourse
  • The use of rhetoric in political campaigns
  • The influence of rhetoric on consumer behavior
  • The power of rhetoric in influencing public opinion
  • The use of rhetorical devices in persuasive essays
  • How rhetoric is used in propaganda
  • The impact of rhetorical devices on the reader's emotions
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping personal identity
  • The ethics of persuasive communication in rhetoric
  • The use of rhetorical questions in argumentative writing
  • The influence of rhetoric on interpersonal relationships
  • The power of rhetoric in changing minds and hearts
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping cultural values
  • The use of rhetorical appeals in ethical arguments
  • The impact of rhetoric on social justice movements
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical devices in political speeches
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public policy debates
  • The ethics of persuasion in rhetorical communication
  • The power of storytelling in persuasive speeches
  • The use of rhetoric in shaping public perception of scientific issues
  • The influence of rhetoric on environmental activism
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public opinion on healthcare
  • The impact of rhetorical devices on the reader's beliefs
  • The use of rhetorical questions in persuasive writing
  • The power of rhetoric in influencing decision-making
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping personal values
  • The influence of rhetoric on public speaking skills
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical appeals in argumentative essays
  • The use of rhetoric in social media activism
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping cultural narratives
  • The use of rhetoric in political satire
  • The power of storytelling in persuasive arguments
  • The influence of rhetoric on public perception of historical events
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public discourse on race relations
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical devices in feminist writing
  • The use of rhetorical questions in persuasive speeches
  • The impact of rhetoric on educational policy debates
  • The power of rhetoric in changing public attitudes towards mental health
  • The use of rhetorical appeals in environmental advocacy
  • The influence of rhetoric on social justice movements
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical devices in political debates
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public policy on immigration
  • The use of rhetoric in shaping public opinion on gun control
  • The power of rhetoric in influencing public health campaigns
  • The influence of rhetoric on personal relationships
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical appeals in persuasive essays
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public perception of climate change
  • The influence of rhetoric on public perception of gender equality
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical devices in anti-racism writing
  • The use of rhetorical questions in persuasive arguments
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical appeals in feminist writing
  • The influence of rhetoric on public perception of economic inequality
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical devices in environmental advocacy
  • The use of rhetorical questions in argumentative essays
  • The power of rhetoric in changing public attitudes towards democracy
  • The effectiveness of rhetorical appeals in persuasive writing
  • The use of rhetoric in shaping public opinion on healthcare
  • The role of rhetoric in political campaigns
  • The role of rhetoric in shaping public opinion on climate change
  • The impact of rhetoric on social media activism
  • The power of rhetoric in influencing public opinion on gun control

These are just a few examples of the many rhetoric essay topics you can explore. Whether you are interested in politics, advertising, social issues, or literature, there is a wealth of material to analyze and discuss. So pick a topic that interests you, do some research, and start crafting your persuasive arguments. Happy writing!

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How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay–Examples & Template

rhetorical essays topics

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

A rhetorical analysis essay is, as the name suggests, an analysis of someone else’s writing (or speech, or advert, or even cartoon) and how they use not only words but also rhetorical techniques to influence their audience in a certain way. A rhetorical analysis is less interested in what the author is saying and more in how they present it, what effect this has on their readers, whether they achieve their goals, and what approach they use to get there. 

Its structure is similar to that of most essays: An Introduction presents your thesis, a Body analyzes the text you have chosen, breaks it down into sections and explains how arguments have been constructed and how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section sums up your evaluation. 

Note that your personal opinion on the matter is not relevant for your analysis and that you don’t state anywhere in your essay whether you agree or disagree with the stance the author takes.

In the following, we will define the key rhetorical concepts you need to write a good rhetorical analysis and give you some practical tips on where to start.

Key Rhetorical Concepts

Your goal when writing a rhetorical analysis is to think about and then carefully describe how the author has designed their text so that it has the intended effect on their audience. To do that, you need to consider a number of key rhetorical strategies: Rhetorical appeals (“Ethos”, “Logos”, and “Pathos”), context, as well as claims, supports, and warrants.

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos were introduced by Aristotle, way back in the 4th century BC, as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience. They still represent the basis of any rhetorical analysis and are often referred to as the “rhetorical triangle”. 

These and other rhetorical techniques can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify the concepts they are based on.

Rhetorical Appeals

Rhetorical appeal #1: ethos.

Ethos refers to the reputation or authority of the writer regarding the topic of their essay or speech and to how they use this to appeal to their audience. Just like we are more likely to buy a product from a brand or vendor we have confidence in than one we don’t know or have reason to distrust, Ethos-driven texts or speeches rely on the reputation of the author to persuade the reader or listener. When you analyze an essay, you should therefore look at how the writer establishes Ethos through rhetorical devices.

Does the author present themselves as an authority on their subject? If so, how? 

Do they highlight how impeccable their own behavior is to make a moral argument? 

Do they present themselves as an expert by listing their qualifications or experience to convince the reader of their opinion on something?

Rhetorical appeal #2: Pathos

The purpose of Pathos-driven rhetoric is to appeal to the reader’s emotions. A common example of pathos as a rhetorical means is adverts by charities that try to make you donate money to a “good cause”. To evoke the intended emotions in the reader, an author may use passionate language, tell personal stories, and employ vivid imagery so that the reader can imagine themselves in a certain situation and feel empathy with or anger towards others.

Rhetorical appeal #3: Logos

Logos, the “logical” appeal, uses reason to persuade. Reason and logic, supported by data, evidence, clearly defined methodology, and well-constructed arguments, are what most academic writing is based on. Emotions, those of the researcher/writer as well as those of the reader, should stay out of such academic texts, as should anyone’s reputation, beliefs, or personal opinions. 

Text and Context

To analyze a piece of writing, a speech, an advertisement, or even a satirical drawing, you need to look beyond the piece of communication and take the context in which it was created and/or published into account. 

Who is the person who wrote the text/drew the cartoon/designed the ad..? What audience are they trying to reach? Where was the piece published and what was happening there around that time? 

A political speech, for example, can be powerful even when read decades later, but the historical context surrounding it is an important aspect of the effect it was intended to have. 

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

To make any kind of argument, a writer needs to put forward specific claims, support them with data or evidence or even a moral or emotional appeal, and connect the dots logically so that the reader can follow along and agree with the points made.

The connections between statements, so-called “warrants”, follow logical reasoning but are not always clearly stated—the author simply assumes the reader understands the underlying logic, whether they present it “explicitly” or “implicitly”. Implicit warrants are commonly used in advertisements where seemingly happy people use certain products, wear certain clothes, accessories, or perfumes, or live certain lifestyles – with the connotation that, first, the product/perfume/lifestyle is what makes that person happy and, second, the reader wants to be as happy as the person in the ad. Some warrants are never clearly stated, and your job when writing a rhetorical analysis essay is therefore to identify them and bring them to light, to evaluate their validity, their effect on the reader, and the use of such means by the writer/creator. 

bust of plato the philosopher, rhetorical analysis essay

What are the Five Rhetorical Situations?

A “rhetorical situation” refers to the circumstance behind a text or other piece of communication that arises from a given context. It explains why a rhetorical piece was created, what its purpose is, and how it was constructed to achieve its aims.

Rhetorical situations can be classified into the following five categories:

Asking such questions when you analyze a text will help you identify all the aspects that play a role in the effect it has on its audience, and will allow you to evaluate whether it achieved its aims or where it may have failed to do so.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Analyzing someone else’s work can seem like a big task, but as with every assignment or writing endeavor, you can break it down into smaller, well-defined steps that give you a practical structure to follow. 

To give you an example of how the different parts of your text may look when it’s finished, we will provide you with some excerpts from this rhetorical analysis essay example (which even includes helpful comments) published on the Online Writing Lab website of Excelsior University in Albany, NY. The text that this essay analyzes is this article on why one should or shouldn’t buy an Ipad. If you want more examples so that you can build your own rhetorical analysis template, have a look at this essay on Nabokov’s Lolita and the one provided here about the “Shitty First Drafts” chapter of Anne Lamott’s writing instruction book “Bird by Bird”.

Analyzing the Text

When writing a rhetorical analysis, you don’t choose the concepts or key points you think are relevant or want to address. Rather, you carefully read the text several times asking yourself questions like those listed in the last section on rhetorical situations to identify how the text “works” and how it was written to achieve that effect.

Start with focusing on the author : What do you think was their purpose for writing the text? Do they make one principal claim and then elaborate on that? Or do they discuss different topics? 

Then look at what audience they are talking to: Do they want to make a group of people take some action? Vote for someone? Donate money to a good cause? Who are these people? Is the text reaching this specific audience? Why or why not?

What tone is the author using to address their audience? Are they trying to evoke sympathy? Stir up anger? Are they writing from a personal perspective? Are they painting themselves as an authority on the topic? Are they using academic or informal language?

How does the author support their claims ? What kind of evidence are they presenting? Are they providing explicit or implicit warrants? Are these warrants valid or problematic? Is the provided evidence convincing?  

Asking yourself such questions will help you identify what rhetorical devices a text uses and how well they are put together to achieve a certain aim. Remember, your own opinion and whether you agree with the author are not the point of a rhetorical analysis essay – your task is simply to take the text apart and evaluate it.

If you are still confused about how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, just follow the steps outlined below to write the different parts of your rhetorical analysis: As every other essay, it consists of an Introduction , a Body (the actual analysis), and a Conclusion .

Rhetorical Analysis Introduction

The Introduction section briefly presents the topic of the essay you are analyzing, the author, their main claims, a short summary of the work by you, and your thesis statement . 

Tell the reader what the text you are going to analyze represents (e.g., historically) or why it is relevant (e.g., because it has become some kind of reference for how something is done). Describe what the author claims, asserts, or implies and what techniques they use to make their argument and persuade their audience. Finish off with your thesis statement that prepares the reader for what you are going to present in the next section – do you think that the author’s assumptions/claims/arguments were presented in a logical/appealing/powerful way and reached their audience as intended?

Have a look at an excerpt from the sample essay linked above to see what a rhetorical analysis introduction can look like. See how it introduces the author and article , the context in which it originally appeared , the main claims the author makes , and how this first paragraph ends in a clear thesis statement that the essay will then elaborate on in the following Body section:

Cory Doctorow ’s article on BoingBoing is an older review of the iPad , one of Apple’s most famous products. At the time of this article, however, the iPad was simply the latest Apple product to hit the market and was not yet so popular. Doctorow’s entire career has been entrenched in and around technology. He got his start as a CD-ROM programmer and is now a successful blogger and author. He is currently the co-editor of the BoingBoing blog on which this article was posted. One of his main points in this article comes from Doctorow’s passionate advocacy of free digital media sharing. He argues that the iPad is just another way for established technology companies to control our technological freedom and creativity . In “ Why I Won’t Buy an iPad (and Think You Shouldn’t, Either) ” published on Boing Boing in April of 2010, Cory Doctorow successfully uses his experience with technology, facts about the company Apple, and appeals to consumer needs to convince potential iPad buyers that Apple and its products, specifically the iPad, limit the digital rights of those who use them by controlling and mainstreaming the content that can be used and created on the device . 

Doing the Rhetorical Analysis

The main part of your analysis is the Body , where you dissect the text in detail. Explain what methods the author uses to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience. Use Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle and the other key concepts we introduced above. Use quotations from the essay to demonstrate what you mean. Work out why the writer used a certain approach and evaluate (and again, demonstrate using the text itself) how successful they were. Evaluate the effect of each rhetorical technique you identify on the audience and judge whether the effect is in line with the author’s intentions.

To make it easy for the reader to follow your thought process, divide this part of your essay into paragraphs that each focus on one strategy or one concept , and make sure they are all necessary and contribute to the development of your argument(s).

One paragraph of this section of your essay could, for example, look like this:

One example of Doctorow’s position is his comparison of Apple’s iStore to Wal-Mart. This is an appeal to the consumer’s logic—or an appeal to logos. Doctorow wants the reader to take his comparison and consider how an all-powerful corporation like the iStore will affect them. An iPad will only allow for apps and programs purchased through the iStore to be run on it; therefore, a customer must not only purchase an iPad but also any programs he or she wishes to use. Customers cannot create their own programs or modify the hardware in any way. 

As you can see, the author of this sample essay identifies and then explains to the reader how Doctorow uses the concept of Logos to appeal to his readers – not just by pointing out that he does it but by dissecting how it is done.

Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion

The conclusion section of your analysis should restate your main arguments and emphasize once more whether you think the author achieved their goal. Note that this is not the place to introduce new information—only rely on the points you have discussed in the body of your essay. End with a statement that sums up the impact the text has on its audience and maybe society as a whole:

Overall, Doctorow makes a good argument about why there are potentially many better things to drop a great deal of money on instead of the iPad. He gives some valuable information and facts that consumers should take into consideration before going out to purchase the new device. He clearly uses rhetorical tools to help make his case, and, overall, he is effective as a writer, even if, ultimately, he was ineffective in convincing the world not to buy an iPad . 

Frequently Asked Questions about Rhetorical Analysis Essays 

What is a rhetorical analysis essay.

A rhetorical analysis dissects a text or another piece of communication to work out and explain how it impacts its audience, how successfully it achieves its aims, and what rhetorical devices it uses to do that. 

While argumentative essays usually take a stance on a certain topic and argue for it, a rhetorical analysis identifies how someone else constructs their arguments and supports their claims.

What is the correct rhetorical analysis essay format?

Like most other essays, a rhetorical analysis contains an Introduction that presents the thesis statement, a Body that analyzes the piece of communication, explains how arguments have been constructed, and illustrates how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section that summarizes the results of the analysis. 

What is the “rhetorical triangle”?

The rhetorical triangle was introduced by Aristotle as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience: Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, Ethos to the writer’s status or authority, and Pathos to the reader’s emotions. Logos, Ethos, and Pathos can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify what specific concepts each is based on.

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Examples

How to choose the best rhetorical analysis topic.

Choosing the best topic for a rhetorical analysis essay is a crucial step that sets the stage for insightful and engaging writing. This process demands a thoughtful consideration of various factors to ensure that your essay not only demonstrates your analytical skills but also captivates your audience. Here's a more detailed guide to navigating this selection process, ensuring you pick a topic that is both meaningful and manageable.

Interest and Relevance

Begin by identifying topics that spark your interest or passion. Writing about something you find intriguing naturally leads to a more engaging and enthusiastic analysis. Furthermore, consider the relevance of the topic to current events or societal issues. Topics that touch on contemporary debates or ongoing cultural conversations tend to resonate more with readers and provide a richer ground for analysis.

Availability of Sources

Ensure there is enough material available to support your analysis. This could include speeches, texts, advertisements, or any media content that is rich in rhetorical strategies. A topic with ample sources allows for a deeper dive into various rhetorical techniques and their effectiveness.

Scope and Complexity

Choose a topic with a manageable scope. It should be neither too broad that it becomes overwhelming to cover in detail nor too narrow that it lacks sufficient content for analysis. The complexity of the topic should match your ability to dissect and understand the rhetorical strategies employed.

Impact on Society

Consider topics that have had a significant impact on society. Analyzing how rhetoric has influenced public opinion, shaped political discourse, or contributed to cultural shifts can provide insightful perspectives on the power of effective communication.

Originality

Strive for originality in your topic selection. While it's helpful to review examples of rhetorical essays or rhetorical analysis essay examples, choosing a unique angle or a less commonly analyzed text can make your essay stand out. This approach not only showcases your creativity but also your ability to apply analytical skills to new and diverse materials.

Audience Engagement

Think about your potential audience and select a topic that would engage them. Understanding your audience's interests and background can help tailor your analysis in a way that is both accessible and compelling.

đŸ”„ 30 Hot Rhetorical Analysis Essay Titles in 2024

The year 2024 is ripe with opportunities for rhetorical analysis, from political speeches addressing global challenges to influential social media campaigns reshaping public opinion. These topics not only reflect current trends but also offer a deep well of rhetorical techniques worth exploring.

  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Climate Change in Political Speeches
  • The Power of Social Media Influencers: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Rhetorical Strategies in "The Future We Choose" by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac
  • "Why We Can't Wait" by Martin Luther King Jr.: A Rhetorical Examination
  • Dissecting the Appeals in Greta Thunberg's UN Speech
  • The Rhetoric of Hope in Barack Obama's "Yes We Can" Speech
  • Persuasion Techniques in Apple's Product Launches
  • "The Danger of a Single Story" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Rhetorical Devices in "Letter from Birmingham Jail"
  • Analysis of Rhetorical Strategies in "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg
  • Elon Musk's Vision for the Future: A Rhetorical Review
  • Rhetorical Elements in the #MeToo Movement Speeches
  • "A Time for Choosing" by Ronald Reagan: Rhetorical Analysis
  • The Art of Persuasion in Winston Churchill's War Speeches
  • Analyzing the Appeal in Malala Yousafzai's Nobel Prize Lecture

👍 10 Good Titles for Rhetorical Analysis Essays

A good rhetorical analysis essay title promises an insightful exploration of persuasive communication techniques. These topics are selected for their significant cultural, political, or social impact, providing a rich basis for analysis.

  • "I Have a Dream" Rhetorical Analysis
  • Analyzing the Pathos in "The Diary of Anne Frank"
  • Ethos, Pathos, and Logos in "The Audacity of Hope" by Barack Obama
  • A Rhetorical Examination of "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath
  • The Power of Language in "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi
  • Rhetorical Strategies in "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison
  • Dissecting the Appeals in "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
  • "The Feminine Mystique" by Betty Friedan: A Rhetorical Critique
  • The Persuasive Language of "The Fire Next Time" by James Baldwin
  • Rhetorical Devices in "We Should All Be Feminists" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

🎯 10 Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

For those new to rhetorical analysis or looking for more straightforward subjects, these topics offer a gentler introduction. They focus on popular media and public campaigns, where rhetorical strategies are both prominent and accessible to beginners.

  • Rhetorical Techniques in Super Bowl Commercials
  • Analyzing Rhetoric in Viral TED Talks
  • The Persuasive Power of Instagram Campaigns
  • Rhetoric in the "Share a Coke" Campaign
  • Speech Analysis: Steve Jobs' Stanford Commencement Address
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Movie Trailers
  • The Art of Persuasion in Children's Advertising
  • Rhetorical Elements in Presidential Inauguration Speeches
  • The Use of Pathos in Animal Rights Campaigns
  • Ethos, Logos, and Pathos in Health Awareness PSAs

đŸ« Popular Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College

College students can deepen their analytical skills by exploring these popular rhetorical analysis topics. They span a range of interests, from literature and advertising to social movements and media, reflecting the diverse ways rhetoric shapes our world.

  • The Rhetoric of American Dream in Modern Literature
  • Gender Roles and Rhetoric in 21st-Century Advertising
  • The Evolution of Rhetorical Strategies in Social Movements
  • Rhetorical Analysis of News Media's Coverage on Climate Change
  • The Use of Rhetoric in Legalizing Marijuana Debates
  • Ethical Persuasion Techniques in Non-Profit Organizations
  • The Influence of Rhetoric in Fashion Industry Marketing
  • Analyzing Rhetorical Appeals in Documentary Films
  • The Role of Rhetoric in Video Game Narratives
  • The Power of Rhetorical Questions in Political Discourse

💡 Insightful Speech Ideas for Rhetorical Analysis Topics

Speeches have long been a goldmine for rhetorical analysis, offering a direct insight into the speaker's persuasive techniques. These topics cover a range of speeches, from historical milestones to contemporary talks, each providing a unique perspective on effective rhetoric.

  • The Rhetorical Impact of "The Gettysburg Address"
  • Rhetorical Devices in "The Declaration of Independence"
  • Analyzing the Persuasive Techniques in Emma Watson's UN Speech for HeForShe
  • The Use of Rhetoric in Historic Farewell Addresses
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speeches
  • The Art of Rhetoric in Valedictorian Speeches
  • "Abigail Adams' Letter to John Quincy Adams
  • The Role of Ethos in Human Rights Advocacy Speeches
  • Pathos and Logos in Environmental Activist Speeches
  • Rhetorical Techniques in Award Acceptance Speeches

Each section offers a curated list of topics designed to spark interest and inspire deep analytical thought. Whether you're drawn to contemporary issues or historical speeches, these topics serve as a starting point for a compelling rhetorical analysis essay.

Crafting a rhetorical analysis essay involves dissecting how a writer or speaker uses words to influence an audience, focusing on the effectiveness and techniques rather than the content itself. This guide delves into the art of writing a compelling rhetorical essay, incorporating examples of rhetorical essays to illustrate key points.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

A rhetorical analysis essay dives deep into the artistry behind an author’s method of communication, scrutinizing the deliberate choice of words, structure, and overall rhetorical techniques used to sway or enlighten the audience. Unlike typical essays that might argue for or against the author’s position, a rhetorical essay takes a step back, focusing purely on the craftsmanship of the argument itself. How does the author appeal to the audience? What strategies are employed to make their message resonate more deeply or convincingly? This analytical approach is invaluable in academic environments, pushing students to not only observe and report but to critically evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies. Doing so, sharpens critical thinking and analytical skills, equipping students with the ability to dissect complex arguments and understand the underlying mechanics of persuasive writing.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis

Writing a successful rhetorical analysis essay begins with thoroughly reading and understanding the text in question. Identify the author’s purpose, target audience, and the strategies used to achieve their goals. Highlighting direct quotes and examples of rhetorical essays can serve as a solid foundation for your analysis. This process allows you to dissect the text meticulously, revealing the nuances of the author’s strategies. Here’s a breakdown of the main points to consider when crafting your essay:

  • Thorough Reading : Start with a comprehensive reading of the text. Pay close attention to its overall structure, the tone of the writing, and the main themes presented. This initial step is crucial for gaining a deep understanding of the material you will analyze.
  • Identify the Purpose : Every text is written with a specific purpose in mind. Determine what the author intends to achieve. Are they trying to persuade, inform, entertain, or provoke thought? Understanding the purpose is key to analyzing the rhetorical strategies employed.
  • Understand the Audience : Who is the target audience of the text? Identifying the audience is essential because the rhetorical techniques used by the author are often tailored to the values, beliefs, or interests of this group. Knowing the audience helps in evaluating the effectiveness of these strategies.
  • Analyze the Strategies : Break down the specific strategies the author uses to reach their audience and fulfill their purpose. Look for examples of ethos (credibility), pathos (emotional appeal), and logos (logical argument) within the text. Each of these appeals plays a crucial role in persuasion and should be carefully examined.
  • Use Direct Quotes : Incorporate direct quotes from the text to support your analysis. These quotes serve as concrete evidence of the rhetorical strategies you identify. They also help to substantiate your claims about how the author’s choices impact the overall effectiveness of the text.

Following these points ensures a structured and comprehensive approach to writing a rhetorical analysis essay, enabling you to deliver a critique that is both insightful and substantiated.

As you craft your rhetorical analysis essay, integrating synthesis topics that challenge your analytical skills can significantly enhance your argumentation and understanding of the rhetorical strategies employed in your primary texts, leading to a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.

How to Structure a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Structuring a rhetorical analysis essay follows a conventional essay format but with a focus on analysis rather than exposition. It typically includes an introduction that presents the text being analyzed, a thesis statement that outlines the main argument or findings, body paragraphs that dissect various rhetorical strategies, and a conclusion that summarizes the analysis and discusses the impact or importance of the rhetorical strategies used.

Infographic Effective Paragraph Structure for Rhetorical Essay

Major Rhetorical Elements

Understanding and identifying rhetorical elements are crucial. These include the rhetorical situation (author, audience, purpose), use of rhetorical appeals, and stylistic choices (language, tone, structure). A rhetorical analysis essay sample can show how these elements interact within a text.

Rhetorical appeals are strategies authors use to persuade their audience, including ethos, pathos, and logos.

  • Ethos  refers to the credibility or ethical appeal the writer establishes, convincing the audience of their reliability or authority on the subject matter.
  • Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions, seeking to evoke feelings that support the author’s argument.
  • Logos involves logical reasoning, where the author uses facts, statistics, or logical arguments to appeal to the audience’s rationality.

Text and Context

Delving into the context surrounding a text enriches your rhetorical analysis, shedding light on the nuances that might affect its interpretation and impact. Historical conditions at the time of writing can reveal why certain rhetorical strategies were employed or why the text resonated with its audience in a particular way.

Social norms and values inform the ethos and pathos appeals, as what is considered credible or emotionally stirring can vary widely across different societies and eras. P

Political climate plays a crucial role too; a text might be responding to, challenging, or supporting prevailing political ideologies or policies. Understanding these layers of context allows you to not only analyze the text on a surface level but also to appreciate the depth and complexity of its rhetorical strategies.

This comprehensive approach adds a rich dimension to your analysis, offering a more nuanced view of the text’s persuasive power and its place within a broader historical, social, a

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

Identify the author’s main claims, the evidence or support provided, and the warrants, which are the underlying assumptions that connect the support to the claims.

Identifying the author’s main claims, the evidence or support provided, and the warrants—those underlying assumptions linking the evidence to the claims—is critical. These elements form the backbone of the argument, showcasing how the author constructs a logical, persuasive case. Unpacking these components reveals the argument’s strength and its persuasive appeal, offering insights into the author’s rhetorical skill and the argument’s potential impact on the audience.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

An outline organizes your thoughts and ensures your essay is coherent and focused.

  • Analyzing the Text. Begin with an in-depth examination of the text, noting the rhetorical strategies used.
  • Rhetorical Analysis Introduction. Introduce the text and provide background information. State your thesis, summarizing your main analytical points.
  • Rhetorical Analysis Body Paragraph. Each body paragraph should focus on a single rhetorical strategy, providing examples and explaining its effectiveness.
  • Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion. Conclude by summarizing your analysis and reflecting on the significance of the rhetorical strategies used, possibly considering their broader implications.

Including a rhetorical analysis essay sample  can significantly enhance understanding by demonstrating how to apply theoretical concepts in a practical context. For instance, analyzing a well-known speech, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream,” could serve as an excellent example of rhetorical analysis. In this case, the essay might explore how King uses ethos to establish his credibility as a leader in the civil rights movement, pathos to evoke a deep emotional response from his audience, and logos to present logical arguments for racial equality and justice.

Another topic that could serve as a rhetorical analysis essay example is an analysis of a key advertising campaign by a famous brand, such as Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign. This example would illustrate how the company uses various rhetorical strategies to appeal to its target audience, motivate them, and ultimately persuade them to purchase their products.

A third example could be a detailed examination of an influential op-ed piece from a major newspaper, analyzing how the author constructs their argument to persuade readers on a controversial issue. This rhetorical essay example would delve into the use of evidence, the appeal to the readers’ values and beliefs, and the structure of the argument to maximize its persuasive impact.

By exploring these topics, readers can gain a clearer understanding of how to identify and analyze the rhetorical strategies used in different types of texts. These examples of rhetorical essays highlight the importance of context, audience, and purpose in shaping effective communication, providing valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their analytical and persuasive writing skills.

5 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Tips

  • Always keep the rhetorical situation in mind. This means considering the relationship between the speaker, the audience, and the message to fully understand the effectiveness of the rhetorical strategies used.
  • Use direct quotes as evidence. Incorporating quotes directly from the text not only provides solid backing for your analysis but also demonstrates a precise understanding of the source material.
  • Avoid summarizing the text; focus on analysis.  While a summary can provide context, the primary goal is to delve into how the text works rhetorically, examining the strategies and their impact rather than recounting the content.
  • Be clear and concise in your argumentation.  Clarity and brevity ensure that your analysis is accessible and straightforward, making your arguments stronger and more persuasive to the reader.
  • Proofread for clarity and coherence.  A thorough review of your essay can help eliminate errors and ensure that your analysis flows logically from one point to the next, enhancing the overall quality of your work.

While delving into the intricacies of rhetorical analysis essays, embedding problem-solution essays that break down complex issues within your study can provide a multifaceted approach to your analysis, offering a deeper understanding of the text’s persuasive techniques and the broader implications of its arguments.

Final Words

In conclusion, mastering the art of writing a rhetorical analysis essay not only sharpens your critical thinking and analytical skills but also enhances your ability to engage deeply with various forms of communication. The use of examples of rhetorical essays plays a pivotal role in this learning process, serving as illuminating guides that showcase the application of theoretical concepts in real-world texts. By examining rhetorical essay examples, you gain valuable insights into effective analytical techniques, understanding not just the ‘what’ but the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind rhetorical strategies.

We strongly encourage you to explore rhetorical analysis essay examples on our website. These resources can significantly aid in developing your analytical prowess, offering a diverse range of texts and contexts to study and learn from. These samples provide practical insights and inspiration for your writing.

Remember, every rhetorical analysis essay sample is an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of rhetorical communication, enhancing your appreciation for the subtleties of argumentation and persuasion. As you explore these examples on our website, you’re not just preparing to write your next essay; you’re building a foundation for more effective communication and critical engagement with the world around you. So, take this chance to enrich your understanding and skills in rhetorical analysis by reviewing the wealth of examples we have made available for you.

Rhetorical Analysis of Kennedy’s Inaugural Address

John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address is widely regarded as one of the most powerful speeches in American history. Delivered on January 20, 1961, it marked the beginning of Kennedy’s presidency and set the tone for his administration. The speech is remembered for its inspirational and…

Rhetorical Analysis of Anti-Smoking Quotes

Smoking has been a prevalent issue in society for decades, and despite the numerous health warnings and anti-smoking campaigns, it continues to be a significant public health concern. Anti-smoking quotes have been used as a powerful tool to raise awareness about the harmful effects of…

Rhetorical Analysis of FDR Inaugural Address

Franklin D. Roosevelt is remembered as one of the most influential presidents in American history. His inaugural address in 1933 marked the beginning of his presidency during a time of great economic turmoil and uncertainty. In this essay, we will analyze the rhetorical strategies employed…

Lord Chesterfield Rhetorical Analysis

Lord Chesterfield, a prominent figure in 18th-century English society, was known for his eloquence and persuasive language. His letters to his son, known as “Letters to His Son,” are a prime example of his rhetorical prowess. In this essay, we will conduct a rhetorical analysis…

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The Great Influenza Rhetorical Analysis

Infectious diseases have had a significant impact on human societies, shaping the course of events and influencing the development of public health policies. The Great Influenza, also known as the Spanish flu, was a devastating global pandemic that occurred in 1918 and 1919, infecting an…

Malala Rhetorical Analysis

Malala Yousafzai, a young Pakistani activist for female education, delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations in 2013. Her speech, commonly known as the “Malala Rhetorical Analysis,” is a prime example of effective rhetoric. In this essay, I will analyze the rhetorical strategies Malala…

Rhetorical Analysis of Margaret Thatcher’s Speech

Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, was known for her strong leadership and impactful speeches. One of her most famous speeches is the “The Lady’s Not for Turning” speech, delivered at the Conservative Party Conference in 1980. This speech is…

Richard Nixon’s Speech Rhetorical Analysis

Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, delivered his famous “Silent Majority” speech on November 3, 1969. This speech was a response to growing opposition to the Vietnam War and was a pivotal moment in Nixon’s presidency. In this essay, I will analyze…

Into The Wild: Rhetorical Analysis

Into the Wild, written by Jon Krakauer, is a non-fiction book that follows the journey of Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives up his possessions and money to live a life of solitude in the Alaskan wilderness. The book delves into McCandless’s motivations, experiences,…

On Being a Cripple Rhetorical Analysis

Author Nancy Mairs, in her essay “On Being a Cripple,” brings forth a compelling argument about the use of the word “cripple” and how it has shaped her identity and perception of herself. Mairs, who herself is disabled due to multiple sclerosis, uses various rhetorical…

What is a rhetorical essay?

Rhetorical essay writing is quite challenging since it is necessary to provide an explanation of how an author uses words to have an impact on the target audience. In most cases, rhetorical essay examples represent an already existing set of ideas where an author has provided a certain writing style. The topics of rhetorical writing will vary from the dangers of smoking to the role of teachers in the classroom.

How to write rhetorical essays?

Start your essay with an analysis of the content that you work with. Once a certain argumentation is studied, analyze how a certain verbal effect has been achieved. See our free rhetorical analysis essay as a reference to see how the ethos, logos, and pathos elements are analyzed by citing parts of the original text. Do not give an opinion regarding the content itself but focus on the rhetoric alone.

What’s the goal of a rhetorical analysis?

The goal of a rhetorical analysis is to examine how an author or speaker persuades their audience using various rhetorical strategies and techniques. It involves identifying the purpose, audience, context, and methods of communication to evaluate the effectiveness of the argument.

What are logos, ethos, and pathos?

Logos refers to logical appeal or reasoning, ethos to the speaker's credibility or trustworthiness, and pathos to emotional appeal. These are the three pillars of persuasion identified by Aristotle, used to persuade and influence an audience's beliefs or actions.

What are claims, supports, and warrants?

Claims are statements or assertions that the writer or speaker wants the audience to accept. Supports are the evidence or reasons provided to back up those claims. Warrants are the underlying assumptions or principles that connect the supports to the claims, often implicitly, making the argument coherent and persuasive.

What is the “rhetorical triangle”?

The rhetorical triangle is a model that outlines three essential components of persuasive communication: ethos (credibility or ethical appeal), pathos (emotional appeal), and logos (logical appeal). These elements work together to influence an audience effectively.

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rhetorical essays topics

Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Definition, Writing Tips + 100 Best Topics

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

What Is Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing?

What is rhetorical analysis essay writing? This looks like one of the greatest questions even for a very successful student. This is not surprising at all, because a rhetorical essay is also a typical assignment that college and university students must complete in meeting their grade requirements. The purpose of a rhetorical essay is to evaluate an argument from a rhetorical perspective. The main question to be answered in these essays is “what are the rhetorical techniques the author is using to prove his or her position?” More often than not, writers apply to sophisticated techniques and approaches to produce a persuasive or compelling essay. The task of a student working on a rhetorical essay is to identify these techniques, explain their meaning, evaluate how well they fit in the paper’s purpose, and propose recommendations to improve the rhetorical quality of the original work.

Basic Questions of Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing Process

The whole process will start when you are ready to answer the basic questions of the rhetorical analysis essay writing process. These questions are provided below.

  • Who is the author of the work?
  • What is the context?
  • What was the goal of writing? That is, why did the author decide to write the selected work?
  • What is the target audience? Whom does the author try to impress?
  • What is the key message articulated by the author?
  • How is the main idea presented?
  • What is the form or framework used by the author to make the message understandable to the reader?
  • Does the form or framework match the idea and intent of the selected work?
  • Who is the reader?
  • Has the intended result been achieved?

How to Start a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How to Start a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Expert Hints

Students often wonder how to start a rhetorical analysis essay. In fact, this is the second most important question to be answered when working on this project. Remember that organization plays one of the huge roles in the success of rhetorical essay writing. At the same time, although rhetorical papers differ from other papers in many ways, their form and structure often follow the most typical pattern – from an introduction and thesis, through a body, toward a conclusion.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing Tips: Useful Information

Follow the below given rhetorical analysis essay writing tips to produce a brilliant conclusion for your rhetorical essay paper.

  • Summarize the most valuable points from your rhetorical essay. For instance, what were the rhetorical devices used by the author to persuade the target audience?
  • Summarize whether the selected work is well suited to fulfill the intended goal. For instance, if the intent was to prove some point, did the author use enough arguments or extensive statistics to support the argument?
  • Summarize the significance of the work and its implications for rhetorical analysis and rhetoric development. Is there anything new or creative that the author used to achieve the intended purpose?
  • If you want, you may focus on any specific technique that you deem is interesting, appropriate, or unique in a context of rhetorical analysis. At the same time, do not hesitate to expand the conclusion, making it more informative and enriching it with detail. Ultimately, you can propose more and better ways for rhetorical analysis, identify weaknesses, or create an agenda for future research in this field.

Follow this simple plan to produce a strong conclusion for your rhetorical essay:

  • restate the thesis;
  • reaffirm the main idea;
  • provide recommendations for a future study;
  • expand upon the main point;
  • go beyond the expected boundaries;
  • see how the paper contributes to the rhetoric tradition;
  • evaluate and provide recommendations to improve the rhetoric.

How to Conclude a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How to Conclude a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Professional Advice

When you know how to start a rhetorical paper, the second question is how to conclude a rhetorical analysis essay. The thing about writing a good rhetorical paper is that a catching introduction is as important as a coherent conclusion. You must be thorough in addressing both aspects of your work. Of course, the goal of any conclusion is to summarize the main argument and mention the most important points from the body of your paper. However, when it comes to rhetorical essay writing, a good conclusion will do more than that. Wrap up the argument made in the body of your rhetorical essay. Evaluate if the paper meets the goals and expectations of the target audience.

When you are done writing your rhetorical paper, you will need to refine and make it perfect. When you finish the first draft, it is just the middle of the process. Check your rhetorical paper against the following criteria, and you will know how to proceed with it.

How Long Is Your Rhetorical Essay?

The body of your paper should not exceed 750 words. It will be the biggest portion of your work, with the introduction and the conclusion being the smallest ones.

Check your vocabulary. It should be rich and varied. You may use a printed dictionary to diversify the vocabulary and make your essay more readable.

Grammar and Spelling

Even the most promising rhetorical essay will look poor and misbalanced if it is full of mistakes. Use short and understandable sentences. Do not overload your paper with unknown words. Monitor your spelling.

Rhetorical essays are best presented in the present tense. Check if your whole essay is written using the same tense. This is the best way to produce a positive impression on your readers.

Consistency

You are to follow the same citation style throughout the entire essay. Check the requirements for your citation and formatting style with your academic institution. Never use two different styles in one essay.

Examples and Experience

You may have no or little experience writing rhetorical papers. However, you will always have a chance to catch up with the progress if you use great examples and learn from them.

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is asking someone you know (or do not really know!) to review and evaluate the draft of your rhetorical essay. At the same time, when struggling to improve the quality of your writing, do not forget to choose an appropriate topic. This is what you need to do today!

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing Tips

TOP 100 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics: Chose the Best One

Feel free to choose any of the rhetorical analysis essay topics below.

  • The rhetoric of Edgar Allan Poe and his famous works (choose any).
  • A deep rhetorical analysis of any speech you have viewed or listened to during TED Talks.
  • Rhetorical analysis of speeches can be time-consuming. Discuss.
  • Martin Luther King’s speech is always a great subject for rhetorical debates – choose it for your rhetorical analysis essay!
  • William Wallace. Braveheart. A rhetorical analysis of the speech.
  • Choose any sermon that you deem appropriate for a rhetorical analysis essay.
  • Choose a Nobel Prize winner that you like and analyze his or her speech using your knowledge of rhetorical devices.
  • Who is your favorite President, in the U.S. or anywhere in the world? Perform a rhetorical analysis of his or her speech (original or translated).
  • Richard Nixon. I’m not a Crook.
  • Using any famous speech as a subject of rhetorical analysis.
  • What are the main rhetorical devices used by modern presidents to make an impact on the target audience?
  • William Shakespeare. King Lear.
  • Choose any monologue from Shakespeare’s works as a topic for your rhetorical essay.
  • What are the most creative rhetorical devices used by Ayn Rand?
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Pearl Harbor Address.
  • Review the rhetorical devices used and evaluate whether they suit the purpose of the speech well.
  • Did the rhetorical devices used by presidents in their speeches benefit them at some point?
  • Amy Poehler. “Yes, Please.”
  • Is there anything weird in the rhetoric of Amy Poehler?
  • The Great Gatsby. The movie versus the book.
  • What is the difference in rhetorical devices between the written story of the Titanic and the movie?
  • How can you determine the rhetorical richness of a book?
  • Pride and Prejudice.
  • The triumph of brilliant rhetorical compositions and their implications for the development of literary talents in England and the U.S.
  • The story of Beowulf. Is there anything notable about the rhetorical devices used in the legend?

Rhetorical Analysis Topics to Write About

Below is another list of rhetorical analysis topics to write about. You are free to choose what you want!

  • William Shakespeare. Hamlet.
  • Choose any play that you like and perform a thorough rhetorical analysis.
  • A rhetorical analysis of the Bible – a challenge or an opportunity?
  • Share with your readers the difficulties a person may encounter when evaluating the rhetoric of an ancient text.
  • Hamlet – a perfect object for rhetorical analysis? You decide.
  • What are the main rhetorical devices used in Troy?
  • How do rhetorical devices influence the reader’s perceptions of a non-fiction story?
  • Anne Lamott. Traveling Mercies.
  • Is there anything that draws the reader’s attention when reading Death of a Salesman?
  • How did writers in the 20th century change the rhetoric of the work from the beginning of their books till their end?
  • A Nation Among Nations: America's Place in World History.
  • What do you think about the rhetoric of public speeches? What recommendations could you provide to improve them?
  • Animals in “An Essay on Man”.
  • Is there any difference in the rhetoric used in relation to different characters in Great Gatsby? How does it look, considering the author’s background?
  • How different writers depict loyalty.
  • Choose any two foreign books and analyze the rhetoric of romance, love or passion.
  • The plot and themes of Harry Potter. Is there anything an ordinary reader may not notice?
  • Tom Sawyer: are there any themes or topics that remain beyond the boundaries of public understanding?
  • Examples of rhetorical analysis and stylistic devices used in a book written by a British author in the 19th century (choose any).
  • A thematic analysis of Asian literature at the beginning of the 21st century.
  • The Things They Carried. A novel that is full of symbolism.
  • Evaluate and interpret the main symbols identified in Ayn Rand’s books. Offer your interpretation of their meaning.
  • An Essay on Man. The importance of imagery. Define the meaning of imagery and its function. Perform a rhetorical analysis of the work using your knowledge of imagery.
  • William Shakespeare. Macbeth. Conduct a thematic analysis of the play and rhetorical analysis of at least one female character.
  • Choose any book written by a South American author where the theme of self-reflection, isolation or solitude is the predominant one. Evaluate the rhetorical devices used by the author to depict the topic.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Rhetorical Analysis Topics for Essay Writing

These are the rhetorical analysis topics for essay writing that will certainly benefit you in your literature courses.

  • Why the theme of knowledge is the most important one in Fahrenheit 451.
  • What are the rhetorical devices used writers of fiction stories to illustrate the main theme?
  • The Painted Veil.
  • What do the rhetorical devices used in The Great Gatsby tell about the scope and magnitude of racial issues in society?
  • Jane Austen: what are the unique rhetorical features in her books and how these features help her preserve an extremely feminine image in literature?
  • The Odyssey: a profound rhetorical analysis of the most famous work in literature.
  • Romeo and Juliet.
  • Analyze the rhetoric devices used to create a sense of imminent tragedy in readers. How do these rhetorical devices work? Provide examples from ancient literature.
  • Jay Gatsby: a rhetorical analysis of the character and his speeches.
  • Plato’s Republic as a great source of knowledge about ancient rhetoric.
  • Conduct a thorough rhetorical analysis of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray.
  • What are the most prominent features of Wilde’s style, setting, and context?
  • Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: what are the key themes and contextual features of the story?
  • Plato’s Republic and the missed rhetoric of justice.
  • The Sun Also Rises – the issue of rhetoric.
  • Anne Lamott. Traveling Mercies. Unique rhetorical features.
  • The difficulties of the rhetorical analysis of the Canterbury Tales.
  • Jared Diamond and Easter Islands.
  • Martin Luther King and “I Have a Dream.” How it changes.
  • Take any movie presented in the last year for rhetorical analysis.
  • Any speech delivered by George W. Bush: what does it carry?
  • The rhetoric of wartime speeches.
  • Barack Obama’s inaugural address – rhetorical devices used.
  • William Wallace. The power of speech writing.
  • The best monologue from Shakespeare.

Topics for Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Review topics for the rhetorical analysis essay below and see what you can do about them.

  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: how does Mark Twain elaborate on the most important themes and topics in different parts of the book?
  • Death of a Salesman. The uniqueness of human tragedy in a world full of people. Implications for rhetorical analysis.
  • Evaluate the most successful rhetorical strategies using examples from U.S. books published in the past 3 years.
  • Joseph Stiglitz. The Price of Inequality. See how the author navigates through a complex world of rhetoric and outline the key features of his style.
  • Describe the most valuable rhetorical strategies and provide examples from famous stories.
  • Rhetorical analyses of movies versus books: what is the difference?
  • Why is the topic of love so popular in fiction stories?
  • Lord of the Flies: how the use of symbols changes the vision and perception of a book, a novel, or a story. Provide examples from the book.
  • The Raven. The rhetorical analysis of Poe’s stories.
  • Rhetorical devices used in television advertising.
  • The rhetoric of blogs and online writing.
  • Religious texts and their rhetorical composition.
  • A rhetorical analysis of a speech delivered by one of your fellow students.
  • An impressive speech following September, 11.
  • The Picture of Dorian Gray. Analyze.
  • The main themes in The Iliad.
  • The Prince – a review of the main rhetorical devices.
  • What you might have missed from Harry Potter.
  • The use of stylistic devices today and 100 years ago.
  • Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill.
  • Elizabeth Gaskell. Review the main literary devices.
  • The writing style of Oscar Wilde.
  • Michael Punke. The Revenant.
  • Rita Dove. Analyze.
  • Poetry and the function of literary devices.

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200 Best Rhetorical Analysis Topics To Cover In Your Paper

rhetorical analysis topics

Do you know what a rhetorical analysis paper is? Most students are at a loss already, yet this is a common task tested at college and university level. We will give you the answers you have been looking for with some effective tips and good examples of rhetorical analysis paper topics.

Follow along.

What Is A Rhetorical Analysis Research Paper ?

You will find a rhetorical analysis paper on the AP English exam. It aims to create an informative paper by dividing the phrases or words that the author develops to show the persuasive techniques used to get feedback from the reader.

It requires a restatement of ideas and rhetorical moves used to persuade the audience to do certain things. A rhetorical analysis essay intends to do the following tasks:

  • Explain the next occurrences in the story,
  • Why the author decided to use a particular move, and
  • How those choices might affect the audience

You can rhetorically analyze various works such as speeches, articles, media pieces, and advertisements. Remember that in a rhetoric paper, your goal is not to add your opinions on the topics or dive into your standpoint on the subject but rather to analyze the author’s use of persuasion specifically.

In short, a rhetorical analysis paper analyzes a text for its use of rhetoric or rhetorical writing. Make sense now?

How To Write A Rhetorical Analysis Paper: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

As discussed earlier on, rhetoric is how writers use and manipulate language to persuade an audience. Now, rhetorical appeals refer to ethos, pathos, and logos. They are compelling ways, which involve carefully choosing how to craft an argument so that the outcome, audience agreement with the argument, is achieved.

Let us explore each of these three techniques of appeal:

Logos refers to the author’s use of logic, careful structure, and objective evidence to appeal to the audience. An author can achieve this by using:

  • Information that one can fact-check
  • Thorough explanations
  • Solid and non-biased explanation of one’s argument

Logical appeals rest on logical modes of thinking such as comparison, cause/effect thinking, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning.

Pathos: An author’s attempt to tap into the audience’s emotions to get them to agree with his claim. It aims to make the reader feel anger, pride, joy, rage, or happiness.

The appeals used here include:

  • Expressive descriptions
  • Vivid imagery
  • Sharing personal stories
  • Using emotion-laden vocabulary

However, excessive use of pathos can indicate a lack of substance or emotional manipulation of the audience.

Ethos: This is an author’s appeal to audience values and authorial credibility/character. When the author attempts to tap into the values or ideologies that the audience holds to justify or support his or her argument, this is classified as ethos.

It makes the audience feel that the author is making an argument that is “right” to their eyes.

However, the misuse of ethos, pathos, and logos weakens arguments. Note that using rhetorical appeals does not always lead to a sound, balanced argument.

Structure of a Rhetorical Analysis Paper

To create a good rhetorical analysis paper like a professional writer here is a brief overview of the structure:

Introduction: It exposes your readers to the paper’s topic and tells them why the literary work is important that it warrants a rhetorical analysis. Your thesis statement comes right at the end of the introduction. It states your opinion regarding whether the writer of the literary work was successful in getting his message across to the audience or not. Body: Most rhetorical analysis papers have three body paragraphs. All paragraphs should, however, be connected by a logical flow. You may decide to dedicate one paragraph to ethos, one to pathos, and the last one to logos. Having a clear outline will help you structure your body paragraphs clearly and logically.

Conclusion: This part wraps up the story and encourages additional thinking and reading for the audience. You begin by offering a summary of your body paragraphs’ main ideas and points, then evaluating the work in general and reinstating your thesis statement.

How To Choose Topics For Rhetorical Analysis

Every outstanding rhetorical analysis paper starts with an equally great topic. Below are some of the sources where you can derive your rhetorical topics:

  • Trending issues in society
  • A speech by a famous politician, actor, or graduate
  • A movie or TV show
  • An advertisement (video or print)

The topic you choose for your rhetorical analysis paper should:

  • Resonate with you personally
  • Trigger the emotion of the reader
  • Show the intention to analyze, not argue

Together, let us look at 200 high-quality rhetoric topics written by expert writers.

Interesting Rhetorical Analysis Topics List

Explore a list of rhetorical topics that will sparkle your paper and brighten up your tutor’s face while awarding grades:

  • A rhetorical analysis of President Biden’s speech on inauguration day
  • The rhetoric of William Shakespeare and his famous piece, Romeo and Juliet
  • Discuss President Obama’s speech on inauguration as compared to that of President Trump
  • A deep rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther’s speeches that made him famous
  • Explore the different rhetorical devices used by presenters and the impact on the target audience
  • Using your knowledge of rhetorical devices, analyze First Lady Melania Trump’s final speech.
  • What are the limitations of monologues in attracting the audience?
  • What stands out most in the speeches of ladies as compared to those of men?
  • Is there any notable rhetoric device in Franklin D. Roosevelt, The Pearl Harbor Address?
  • Evaluate whether rhetorical devices used in plays suit the purpose of the speech well
  • How can you point out the rhetorical richness of any speech?
  • Analyze the use of rhetoric devices in the USA and Britain
  • Conduct a rhetorical analysis of the Bible
  • The impact of rhetorical devices on a reader’s perceptions of a non-fiction story
  • Is there anything that draws your attention to William Shakespeare’s style of writing?
  • How does the credibility of the author impact the audiences’ perception of the story?
  • Ways in which plot and theme work to create a masterpiece
  • A thematic analysis of the ancient writing of the 19th century
  • Evaluate the rhetorical devices used to portray love and romance in plays
  • A profound rhetorical analysis of The Odyssey

Rhetorical Essay Topics For College Students

These professionally handpicked rhetorical analysis topics will benefit college students in their final year a great deal:

  • The issues of rhetoric in Plato’s, Republic
  • Why Martin Luther King’s speech, “I Have a Dream” broke the internet
  • Conduct an in-depth rhetorical analysis of the Black Panther movie
  • The power of speech writing in George Washington’s speeches
  • How does television advertising employ the use of rhetorical devices?
  • An analysis of the rhetorical devices used in the famous portrait, Monalisa
  • Analyze Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill’s last speech that drove many hearts
  • The function of literary devices on poetry and plays
  • Review the main literary devices in the Harry Porter
  • Analyze any impressive speech made on September, 11 with rhetorical devices in mind
  • How do blogs and other online writing content use rhetoric?
  • Analyze a book that impacted your life greatly, and why?
  • An influential political speech that is still referred to in the 21st century
  • How technology has made it possible and easy to manipulate rhetoric devices
  • How do preachers use rhetoric in their sermons to make a meaningful impact on the congregation?
  • What are the popular marks of acceptance speeches?
  • Critically analyze a scene from a favourite movie using rhetoric devices
  • A rhetorical analysis of Charles Spurgeon’s sermons and why they are still popular today
  • Discuss how solitude is used in various works of literature
  • Conduct a rhetorical analysis on Charlie Chaplin’s famous speech, The Great Dictator.

Rhetorical Analysis Ideas For High School Students

Are you a middle school or high school student thinking of where to get mind-blowing rhetorical analysis example topics? We have you covered:

  • Write a rhetorical analysis paper on your first birthday.
  • Provide a rhetorical analysis of the school principal’s speech on graduation day
  • The rhetorical analysis of my favourite teacher’s inaugural speech
  • Analyze the speech of a Nobel Peace Prize winner rhetorically you know
  • Main themes and analysis of “Pride And Prejudice” by William Shakespeare
  • A rhetorical analysis of the behaviour of online consumers
  • How the electronic media has impacted culture: A rhetorical analysis
  • Analyze rhetorical the power of social media in making the world a global village
  • Rhetorical analysis on the impact of Olympics and World Cup
  • The symbolism of playing national anthems during the Olympic games
  • Main themes and rhetorical analysis of “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare
  • Analyze the primary themes present in “Alice in the Wonderland”.
  • A literary analysis of “The Animal Farm.”
  • Summary and analysis of “The Kite Runner.”
  • A rhetorical analysis of the environment and consumerism
  • Rhetorically analyze the attitude of women towards fashion versus that of men.
  • How do women consume media advertisement messages as compared to men?
  • Conduct a rhetorical analysis on why the dog is the best keeper of the house
  • Language serves the life of society: A rhetorical analysis of this statement.
  • Is the friendship between man and dog real?

Good Rhetorical Analysis Paper Topics

Here are true laconic reasoned topics that will make you express yourself to your audience in a clear and sophisticated manner:

  • The rhetorical analysis of the speech of an orator you find impactful
  • The expression of the role of a man and a woman in literary texts
  • How do authors anticipate the reaction of the audience when using rhetorical devices?
  • How does stereotyping blur the effective use of rhetorical devices?
  • Discuss how rhetorical devices vary from classical to Rogerian texts
  • How does the organization of a particular text complement the subject?
  • Discuss the patterns that exist in William Shakespeare’s choice of words
  • What is the impact of an objective or subjective author’s approach?
  • The use of syntax in minimizing information that detracts from the argument
  • How keywords, phrases, and ideas are used to communicate messages in literary texts
  • The impact of a formal or informal language on the delivery of a speech
  • Why do concrete or abstract images matter in a literary text?
  • The ethos, pathos, and logos of Nelson Mandela’s speech “I am prepared to die.”
  • Is Priyanka Chopra’s speech, “Full Power of Women” feminine subjective?
  • What features made Denzel Washington’s Dillard University Commencement Speech stand out?
  • A rhetoric analysis of Coca-Cola’s logo colours
  • Rhetoric analysis of President Biden’s speech on transgender
  • A literary analysis of “The Ethics of Belief” by Clifford
  • Rhetorically analyze “The Power of Introverts” by Susan Cain.
  • Analyze the rhetoric devices used in “Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator” by Tim Urban

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Topics For Essay

Finding researchable ideas for your rhetorical analysis paper can be daunting, especially when you don’t know where to start. Here are manageable topics that you can start with:

  • Conduct a rhetorical analysis on the meaning behind Mona Lisa’s smile
  • A rhetorical analysis of songs from pop-culture
  • What rhetorical devices made Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon controversial?
  • How is heroism as a literary theme brought out by different writers?
  • Discuss how authors handle the issues of prejudice and race in their writings
  • Rhetorical strategies used in the Harry Potter series
  • Alexander the Great Speech: A study of the symbols and literary devices used
  • The relevance of the themes of hope and love in most literary texts
  • Rhetorical strategies used by Louisa May Alcott in advancing feminism
  • Rhetorical used devices in the American national anthem
  • Why Rachel Platten’s Fight Song is a mark of both art and creativity
  • How is it that Ted talks tend to attract a large number of listeners?
  • How do advertisers curate language used in billboard and poster advertising?
  • How the use of symbols and vivid description changes the visual impression of a literary work
  • The rhetorical composition of different religious texts
  • Analyze the stylistic devices available in The Picture of Dorian Gray
  • Analyze the speech of your class representative on Memorial Day
  • A review of the main rhetorical devices in Virginia Woolf’s “A Room of One’s Own.”
  • How does the use of stylistic devices in ancient times vary from that of today?
  • Discuss the most valuable rhetorical strategies in The Hunger Games

Rhetorical Situation Essay Topics in 2023

Are you fed up with all the redundant and easy rhetorical analysis topics of 2020? Well, here is a chance to rejuvenate yourself with the latest rhetorical analysis topics of 2023:

  • A rhetorical analysis of The Raven written by the poet Edgar Allen Poe
  • Analyze Jonathan Edward’s sermon, “Sinners in the hands of an angry God.”
  • Give a rhetorical analysis of Pearl Harbor speech given by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s
  • Conduct a detailed rhetorical analysis of BBC World’s “See Both Sides of the Story” billboard
  • What makes “To Kill a Mocking Bird” by Harper Lee such an interesting novel to read?
  • The relevance of “The Canterbury Tales” by Geoffrey Chaucer today
  • Discuss William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”
  • Inaugural address of the first American black female Vice President, Kamala Harris
  • Evaluate the rhetorical devices present in Macbeth
  • A rhetorical analysis of Alexander Pope’s “The Rape of the Lock.”
  • Main themes and analysis of “The Great Gatsby.”
  • The final speech of Donald Trump as the President of the United States
  • Analyze President Trump’s speech after the violence at The US Capitol
  • Stylistic devices of Kamala Harris’ acceptance speech
  • An analysis of President Trump’s Twitter messages
  • Discuss “Fight Club” by Chuck Palahniuk
  • An analysis of Jack Ma’s motivational speeches
  • How do native speakers communicate messages as compared to others?
  • An evaluation of rhetorical devices in funeral messages
  • Reasons why “The Great Gatsby” movie was a success

Fiction Books Rhetoric Research Paper Topics

Do you have a fiction book to analyze for your rhetoric assignment and you are stuck? Here are some good topics to write a rhetorical analysis today:

  • A rhetorical analysis of “The Revenant” By Michael Punke
  • Dominant themes in “Death of a Salesman” Vs “The White Heron”.
  • Discuss the main themes in “The Lottery”.
  • What stands out in Amy Poehler’s “Yes Please?”
  • How Nathaniel Hawthorne uses rhetoric devices in “Young Goodman Brown.”
  • Is “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley applicable in the 21st century?
  • Discuss “Seize the Day” from Dead Poets Society
  • How is “A Room of One’s Own” by Virginia Woolf unique?
  • Main themes in Laura Hillenbrand’s “Unbroken.”
  • Analyze Sarah Orne Jewett’s “A White Heron”
  • Rhetoric features in “Antigone” by Sophocles
  • Features of James Joyce’s “Dubliners”
  • How Toni Morrison uses rhetoric features in “Song of Solomon.”
  • Evaluate “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls
  • Distinct rhetoric featured in Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.”
  • An analysis of Lord Tennyson’s “Ulysses.”
  • What makes Ronal Reagan’s “The Evil Empire” stand out?
  • Evaluate Clarence Seward Darrow’s “Mercy for Leopold and Loeb”
  • A rhetorical analysis of “The Phantom of the Opera.”
  • Rhetorical strategies in “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand

Visual Rhetoric Paper Topics For University Students

Make your easy truly memorable with the rhetorical analysis topics below:

  • Use of text in TV campaigns
  • Visual arts in Hollywood movie productions
  • Features of a magazine cover
  • People are shown on food ads.
  • Art and social class
  • Effects of yellow journalism
  • Use of colour in banners
  • Brand name and emotional appeal
  • Advertising and third world countries
  • Use of soundtracks in movies
  • Effect of camera movements on video quality
  • Visual features of “Jurassic Park.”
  • Use of symbolism in “The blind side.”
  • Visual representations in museums
  • Impact of slow motion
  • TV campaigns for beauty products
  • Digital media campaigns
  • Visual arts “Game of Thrones.”
  • Symbolism in creative ads
  • Arts and culture

Updated Rhetorical Argument Paper Topics

Here are some topics to consider for an argumentative rhetoric paper:

  • Legality of abortion
  • Payment of college athletes
  • Segregation of sports by gender
  • Facebook and data privacy
  • GMOs and people’s health
  • Coronavirus vaccines
  • Are self-driving cars legal?
  • Use of automated systems
  • Social media and globalization
  • Religious organizations and taxes
  • Clubs in schools
  • Should clergymen marry?
  • Is assisted suicide legal?
  • Is automatic voter registration the way to go?
  • Are sex workers permitted?
  • Is the death penalty legal?
  • Should guns be legalized?
  • Are monopolies economical?
  • Are school uniforms essential?
  • Is college necessary?

Rhetorical Analysis Assignment Ideas On Movies

Are you blank on what movies to analyze? Here are top-notch ideas:

  • American Odyssey
  • Black Panther
  • The Wretched
  • Bad Boys For Life
  • The Titanic
  • Saving Private Ryan
  • Lawrence of Arabia
  • Apocalypse Now
  • To Kill a Mockingbird
  • Gone With The Wind
  • The Godfather
  • The Wizard of Oz

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625 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024

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Rhetorical analysis essay topics can revolve around a range of intriguing subject areas. They involve dissecting the persuasive methods employed by authors in their works, such as written texts, objects, sculptures, visuals, advertisements, arts, or speeches. Some themes may span from analyzing landmark political speeches to unraveling the rhetoric in renowned advertising campaigns. Topics also may delve into the rhetoric of iconic literature, dissecting the persuasive language techniques utilized by authors. Others probe into social media’s influence, critiquing the strategies influencers use to sway public opinion. Moreover, topics may explore historical documents or manifestos, scrutinizing the influential rhetoric in shaping societal views. As a result, rhetorical analysis essay topics allow students to improve their critical thinking skills, master the art of persuasion, and understand the impact of effective communication in molding societal perceptions.

Best Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Examining Metaphors in Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream”
  • Pathos and Humor: A Look at Satire in Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal”
  • Rhetoric in Political Speeches: Analysis of Barack Obama’s Inaugural Address
  • Influence of Persuasive Language in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Orwellian Doublethink: Studying “1984” and its Rhetorical Devices
  • Decoding Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address”: A Rhetorical Perspective
  • Unraveling Biblical Allusions in Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick”
  • Speech Patterns and Influence: Examining Hitler’s Rhetoric
  • Deconstructing the Rhetoric of Fear in McCarthy Era Propaganda
  • Inspirational Rhetoric in JFK’s Moon Speech: An Analysis
  • Breaking Down Patriotic Appeals in “Star Spangled Banner” Lyrics
  • Visual Rhetoric: Analyzing Iconic Photographs of the Vietnam War
  • Unpacking Anti-War Sentiments in Wilfred Owen’s “Dulce et Decorum Est”
  • Ethos, Pathos, and Logos in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  • Rhetoric in Advertisements: Analyzing Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign
  • Metaphorical Language in Emily Dickinson’s Poetry: A Rhetorical Study
  • Euphemisms and Political Correctness: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Social Media Influence: Rhetorical Strategies in Influencer Marketing
  • Dissecting Irony in Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest”
  • Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar”: Analyzing Antony’s Funeral Speech
  • Rhetorical Power in Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches”
  • Analyzing Patriotic Appeals in the Lyrics of National Anthems

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics & Good Ideas

Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Roles of Rhetoric in Advertising: The Case of Apple Inc.
  • Repetition and Rhetoric in Langston Hughes’ “A Dream Deferred”
  • Manipulative Language: The Rhetoric of Cult Leaders
  • Propaganda Analysis: Rhetorical Techniques in World War II Posters
  • Visual Rhetoric in Political Cartoons: A Comprehensive Study
  • A Rhetorical Study of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise”
  • Reviewing the Power of Silence: A Rhetorical Analysis of “A Quiet Place”
  • Persuasive Language in Health Campaigns: Rhetorical Analysis of “5 a Day”
  • J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” Series: A Study of Magical Rhetoric
  • Rhetorical Devices in Horror Films: The Case of “Psycho”
  • Rhetorical Elements in George Washington’s Farewell Address
  • Persuasion in Fashion Marketing: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Studying Rhetoric in Social Movements: The Case of #MeToo
  • Rhetoric of Social Media Memes: A Linguistic Analysis
  • Rhetoric in Documentaries: Unraveling “An Inconvenient Truth”
  • Rhetoric in Graphic Novels: A Study of “Maus” by Art Spiegelman
  • “A Tale of Two Cities”: A Rhetorical Analysis of Dickens’ Narrative
  • Medical Rhetoric: Analyzing Pharmaceutical Advertisements
  • Dystopian Rhetoric: A Study of Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • The Art of War: A Rhetorical Analysis of Sun Tzu’s Tactics
  • Analyzing Pathos in Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species”

Interesting Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Decoding the Rhetoric of Comic Strips: A Look at “Calvin and Hobbes”
  • Unveiling Rhetoric in Public Service Announcements: An Analysis
  • The Rhetoric of Children’s Books: A Study of Dr. Seuss
  • Analyzing Rhetorical Strategies in “Schindler’s List”
  • Iconic Advertisements: A Rhetorical Analysis of Coca-Cola’s Campaigns
  • Rhetorical Devices in Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Deconstructing Dramatic Irony in Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex”
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Supreme Court Decisions: A Study
  • Revealing Environmental Rhetoric in Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring”
  • Rhetoric in Self-Help Books: A Look at “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne
  • Analyzing Persuasion in Abraham Maslow’s “Hierarchy of Needs”
  • Rhetoric in the Workplace: A Study of Corporate Communication
  • Unpacking Rhetoric in College Admission Essays: An Analysis
  • Rhetoric in Video Games: A Study of “The Last of Us”
  • Revealing Rhetoric in Pulitzer Prize-Winning News Articles
  • Decoding Rhetoric in Climate Change Reports: A Study
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Conspiracy Theories: A Case Study
  • Rhetoric in Infographics: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • The Rhetoric of Online Dating Profiles: An Analysis
  • Revealing Rhetoric in UN Speeches: A Look at Malala Yousafzai
  • The Power of Rhetoric in Comic-Con Panels: A Study
  • Rhetoric in Animation: A Look at Disney’s “Moana”

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for High School

  • Evaluating Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” Speech: An Examination of Rhetoric
  • Rhetoric in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address: A Comprehensive Analysis
  • Impacts of Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” Speech on World War II
  • Persuasion Techniques in John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address: An Insight
  • Assessing the Rhetorical Power of Mahatma Gandhi’s “Quit India” Speech
  • Delving Into Susan B. Anthony’s Speech on Women’s Rights: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Power and Persuasion: Analyzing Rhetoric in Nelson Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die” Speech
  • Speech Analysis: The Rhetoric of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Pearl Harbor Address
  • Examining Barack Obama’s “Yes We Can” Speech: A Study in Effective Rhetoric
  • Influence of Rhetoric in Ronald Reagan’s “Tear Down This Wall” Speech
  • Dissecting the Persuasive Techniques in Theodore Roosevelt’s “Duties of American Citizenship” Speech
  • Elucidating Rhetoric in George W. Bush’s Post 9/11 Speech
  • Explicating the Impact of Rhetoric in Eleanor Roosevelt’s “The Struggle for Human Rights” Speech
  • The Rhetoric of Hope: A Study on Aung San Suu Kyi’s Nobel Lecture
  • Impacts of Rhetoric in Malala Yousafzai’s Speech to the United Nations
  • Deconstructing the Rhetoric in Maya Angelou’s “On the Pulse of Morning”
  • Rhetoric in Action: Analysis of Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman” Speech
  • Examining the Rhetorical Devices in Jimmy Carter’s “Crisis of Confidence” Speech
  • The Art of Persuasion: Analyzing Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s “The Solitude of Self” Speech
  • Revealing the Power of Rhetoric in Angela Davis’s “On Violence” Speech
  • Rhetoric’s Roles in Indira Gandhi’s “True Liberation of Women” Speech

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Dissecting Rhetoric in Dalai Lama’s Acceptance Speech for the Nobel Peace Prize
  • The Rhetoric of Justice: A Study on Thurgood Marshall’s “Speech on the Constitution”
  • Articulating the Rhetoric in Vladimir Putin’s Munich Security Conference Speech
  • Rhetoric in Pablo Neruda’s Nobel Lecture: An Analysis
  • Elucidating Rhetoric in Hillary Clinton’s “Women’s Rights are Human Rights” Speech
  • Scrutinizing the Rhetorical Devices in Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” Speech
  • Investigating the Rhetoric in Vaclav Havel’s “The Power of the Powerless” Speech
  • The Rhetoric of Freedom: Analysis of Simon Bolivar’s “Cartagena Manifesto”
  • Unraveling Rhetoric in Emmeline Pankhurst’s “Freedom or Death” Speech
  • Assessing Rhetorical Strategies in Fidel Castro’s “History Will Absolve Me” Speech
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric in Che Guevara’s “Message to the Tricontinental”
  • Reviewing the Rhetorical Techniques in Bill Clinton’s “I Have Sinned” Speech
  • Dissecting the Rhetoric in Emma Watson’s “HeForShe” Campaign Speech
  • Analyzing Rhetoric in Michelle Obama’s “When They Go Low, We Go High” Speech
  • The Rhetorical Power of J.K. Rowling’s Harvard Commencement Speech
  • Persuasion Techniques in Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Address: An Analysis
  • Examining Rhetoric in Malcolm X’s “The Ballot or the Bullet” Speech
  • Elucidating the Rhetoric in Charles de Gaulle’s “Appeal of 18 June” Speech
  • Impacts and Analysis of Rhetoric in Benazir Bhutto’s “Democracy Is the Best Revenge” Speech
  • Rhetoric in Action: Examining Richard Nixon’s “Checkers” Speech
  • Unraveling the Power of Rhetoric in Dwight Eisenhower’s “Farewell” Speech
  • The Influence of Rhetoric in Desmond Tutu’s “We the People of South Africa” Speech

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for College Students

  • The Rhetoric and Power of Language in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • Examining Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” Speech: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • How Does Shakespeare Utilize Rhetoric in “Julius Caesar”?
  • Use of Rhetoric in Barack Obama’s Inaugural Address
  • Analysis of Pathos, Ethos, and Logos in “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Persuasive Techniques in John F. Kennedy’s “Moon Speech”
  • Evaluating Rhetoric in the Age of Social Media
  • The Impact of Rhetorical Devices in J.K. Rowling’s Harvard Commencement Address
  • Rhetoric and Reality in “Brave New World”
  • Impacts of Rhetorical Strategies in Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal”
  • Understanding the Rhetorical Power of Winston Churchill’s Speeches
  • The Role of Rhetoric in Advertising: An Analysis
  • Deconstructing the Rhetorical Elements in Virginia Woolf’s “A Room of One’s Own”
  • How Does Rhetoric Shape Public Opinion in Politics?
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address”
  • The Rhetorical Purpose of Humor in Mark Twain’s Works
  • Analyzing Rhetorical Devices in “The Diary of Anne Frank”
  • The Rhetoric of Resistance in Henry David Thoreau’s “Civil Disobedience”
  • How Do “The Simpsons” Series Use Rhetoric to Satirize Contemporary Issues?
  • Influence of Rhetoric in Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species”
  • Impacts of Rhetoric in Campaign Speeches and Its Effect on Voter Perception

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for University

  • “Harry Potter”: A Study in Rhetorical Analysis and Narrative Technique
  • Power of Rhetoric in Environmental Awareness Campaigns
  • The Rhetoric of Horror: An Analysis of Stephen King’s “The Shining”
  • Examining the Rhetorical Approach of Feminism in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • Rhetorical Strategies Employed in “The Godfather” Movies
  • Understanding Rhetorical Techniques in Cult Recruitment
  • Analysis of the Rhetoric in Cybersecurity Debates
  • The Rhetoric of Rebellion in George R. R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones”
  • Roles of Rhetoric in the Anti-Vaccination Movement: An Analysis
  • The Art of Rhetoric in Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Address
  • Use of Rhetoric in Hip-Hop Lyrics: A Study of Kendrick Lamar’s Music
  • Understanding the Rhetorical Power in Oprah Winfrey’s Speeches
  • Rhetoric and Symbolism in Banksy’s Artwork: An Analysis
  • Dissecting the Rhetoric of Manifestos: An Exploration
  • The Rhetoric of Space Exploration in Neil deGrasse Tyson’s Speeches
  • Analysis of Rhetorical Techniques in Climate Change Denial Arguments
  • Use of Rhetoric in TED Talks: A Case Study of Brene Brown’s Presentations
  • How Does “The Catcher in the Rye” Use Rhetoric to Discuss Adolescence?
  • Rhetorical Strategies in “The Fault in Our Stars” to Portray Tragedy
  • Rhetoric in Fashion: How Do Designers Communicate Through Clothing?
  • The Rhetoric of Protest: A Study of Greta Thunberg’s Speeches
  • Roles of Rhetoric in “Star Wars”: Persuasion in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Advertisements Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Social Awareness Through Advertising: Examining the Truth Anti-Smoking Campaign
  • Environmental Consciousness: A Rhetorical Analysis of Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” Advertisement
  • Unveiling Beauty Standards: Decoding Calvin Klein’s “My Calvins” Campaign
  • Emotional Appeal in Advertising: Analyzing Budweiser’s “Lost Dog” Commercial
  • Redefining Luxury: Interpreting Chanel’s “Coco Mademoiselle” Advertisement
  • Inspiring Dreams: Dissecting the BMW “The Hire” Film Series
  • Empathy and Connection: Unpacking Google’s “Parisian Love” Advertisement
  • Breaking Barriers: A Rhetorical Analysis of Under Armour’s “I Will What I Want” Campaign
  • Capturing Adventure: Analyzing GoPro’s “Be a Hero” Advertisement
  • Social Impact through Storytelling: Decoding the P&G “Thank You, Mom” Campaign
  • Innovation and Technology: Examining IBM’s “Watson” Commercial
  • Unleashing Creativity: Interpreting Lego’s “Imagine” Ad Campaign
  • Bold and Fearless: Dissecting Red Bull’s “Gives You Wings” Slogan
  • Inspiring Philanthropy: Analyzing the Coca-Cola Foundation’s “It’s Beautiful” Advertisement
  • The Art of Storytelling: Unpacking John Lewis’ Christmas Advertisements
  • Raising Environmental Awareness: Decoding the Volkswagen “Think Small” Campaign
  • Authenticity and Self-Expression: Examining Levi’s “Live in Levi’s” Advertisements
  • Cultural Impact: Interpreting Nike’s “Kaepernick” Campaign
  • Emotional Resonance: Dissecting the Budweiser “Whassup?” Commercial
  • Empowering Youth: Analyzing Nike’s “Find Your Greatness” Ad Campaign
  • Inclusion and Acceptance: A Rhetorical Analysis of Coca-Cola’s “Pool Boy” Advertisement

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Cultural Manifestos

  • The Power of Artistic Manifestos: Catalysts for Cultural Movements
  • Exploring Rhetorical Strategies in Feminist Manifestos: Challenging Gender Norms
  • Decoding the Manifesto of Surrealism: Unlocking the Depths of the Subconscious
  • Analyzing Environmental Manifestos: Inspiring Ecological Consciousness
  • Revolutionary Language: Unveiling the Black Arts Movement Manifestos
  • Postcolonial Manifestos: Reclaiming Cultural Identity Through Rhetoric
  • LGBTQ+ Manifestos: Advocating for Equality and Acceptance
  • Analyzing Cyberpunk Culture: The Rhetoric of Subverting Technological Paradigms
  • Unpacking Indigenous Manifestos: Empowering Native Voices Through Rhetoric
  • Anti-Consumerism in Culture Jamming Manifestos: A Rhetorical Perspective
  • Pop Art Manifestos: Redefining Popular Culture Through Rhetoric
  • Hip Hop Manifestos: Empowering Marginalized Communities Through Rhetoric
  • Riot Grrrl Movement Manifestos: Amplifying Feminist Voices
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Dogme 95 Manifesto: Redefining Filmmaking Conventions
  • Unveiling Dada Manifestos: Embracing Chaos and Nihilism
  • Afrofuturism Manifestos: Imagining New Cultural Realities
  • Minimalism in Design Manifestos: Embracing Simplicity and Functionality
  • Beat Generation Writers’ Manifestos: Embracing Spontaneity and Nonconformity
  • Punk Manifestos: Channeling Anger and Rebellion
  • Postmodernist Manifestos: Challenging Grand Narratives

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Environmental Campaigns

  • The Impact of the “Save the Whales” Campaign on Global Marine Conservation
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of the “Keep America Beautiful” Anti-Littering Campaign
  • The Power of Greenpeace’s Rhetorical Strategies in the Fight Against Deforestation
  • Examining the Effectiveness of the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” Slogan in Promoting Sustainability
  • Unveiling the Rhetorical Techniques of the “Go Green” Movement
  • Assessing the Language of the “Ban Plastic Bags” Campaign and Its Environmental Implications
  • The Influence of Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” on Environmental Awareness
  • Analyzing the Rhetorical Impact of the “Ditch the Car, Go Green” Initiative
  • Rhetoric of the “Beyond Coal” Campaign and its Role in Promoting Renewable Energy
  • Examining the Effectiveness of the “Water Is Life” Campaign in Advocating for Clean Water Access
  • Unveiling the Rhetorical Strategies of the “Earth Hour” Movement and its Call for Energy Conservation
  • The Power of Indigenous Voices in Environmental Advocacy: A Case Study of the “Standing Rock” Campaign
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of the “Beyond Plastic” Initiative in Fighting Single-Use Plastics
  • The Rhetorical Techniques of the “Earth Day” Movement and Its Contributions to Environmental Awareness
  • Addressing the Language of the “Clean Air Act” and Its Impact on Air Pollution Control
  • The Influence of Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” on the Environmental Movement
  • Analyzing the Rhetorical Impact of the “Save the Rainforests” Campaign in Biodiversity Conservation
  • Unveiling the Rhetorical Strategies of the “No More Straws” Initiative and Its Fight Against Plastic Waste
  • The Power of Visual Rhetoric in the “Before It’s Too Late” Climate Change Campaign

Funny Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Analyzing Humor in Charlie Chaplin’s Silent Films
  • Unwrapping the Absurdity in “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”
  • Deconstructing the Wit in Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest”
  • Satirical Elements in Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Dissecting the Humor in “The Office”: A Study of Workplace Comedy
  • Lessons From “Looney Tunes”: Anthropomorphism and Absurdity
  • “Parks and Recreation”: A Study in Political Satire
  • Sarcasm and Social Commentary in “South Park”
  • Unveiling Irony in “The Big Bang Theory”
  • Dark Humor in Tim Burton’s Movies: A Case Study
  • Reading Between the Lines: Puns in Shakespeare’s Works
  • Humor in Comic Strips: A Critical Analysis of “Calvin and Hobbes”
  • Unraveling Humor in Classic “Tom and Jerry” Episodes
  • Laughter Behind “The Mask”: Jim Carrey’s Unique Comedy Style
  • Double Entendre and Innuendo in British Comedy Shows
  • Understanding Satire in ‘The Onion’ News Articles
  • Humor in Tragedy: An Analysis of Dark Comedy in “Breaking Bad”
  • Laughter in Horror: A Study of Comedy Elements in Stephen King’s Works
  • Humor in Advertising: Analysis of Old Spice Commercials
  • Paradox and Absurdity in Douglas Adams’ “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”
  • Elements of Humor in Superhero Comic Books: A Close Look at “Deadpool”

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Historical Documents

  • Founding Fathers’ Use of Persuasion in the Declaration of Independence
  • Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation: A Call for Equality
  • Washington’s Farewell Address: Shaping America’s Foreign Policy
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fireside Chats: Mobilizing the Nation in Crisis
  • Thomas Paine’s Common Sense: Propelling the American Revolution
  • Susan B. Anthony’s Speech on Women’s Suffrage: Empowering the Movement
  • John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address: Instilling Hope and Unity
  • The Federalist Papers: Defending the US Constitution
  • Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?” Speech: Advocating for Gender and Racial Equality
  • Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points: Crafting a Vision for World Peace
  • Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s “Declaration of Sentiments”: Demanding Women’s Rights
  • The Gettysburg Address: Honoring the Fallen and Reaffirming the Nation’s Purpose
  • Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin: Influencing the Abolitionist Movement
  • Ronald Reagan’s “Tear Down This Wall” Speech: Challenging Soviet Authority
  • Elizabeth I’s “Tilbury Speech”: Encouraging English Troops against the Spanish Armada
  • The Seneca Falls Declaration: Propelling the Women’s Rights Movement
  • Nelson Mandela’s Rivonia Trial Speech: Defending Equality in South Africa
  • The Monroe Doctrine: Asserting US Influence in the Western Hemisphere
  • Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring: Igniting the Environmental Movement
  • The US Bill of Rights: Safeguarding Individual Liberties

Literary Works Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The Role of Foreshadowing in Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights”
  • Understanding the Theme of Identity in Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man”
  • The Use of Alliteration in Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven”
  • Exploring the Symbolism of the Conch in William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”
  • The Rhetorical Effect of Repetition in Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
  • Analyzing the Role of Imagery in John Steinbeck’s “Of Mice and Men”
  • Theme of Social Injustice in Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities”
  • Literary Strategies in Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway”
  • Analyzing the Use of Similes in Langston Hughes’ Poetry
  • Rhetorical Impact of Personification in William Shakespeare’s Sonnets
  • Understanding the Theme of Freedom in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • Exploring the Symbolism of the Yellow Wallpaper in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s Story
  • The Figurative Devices Employed in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter”
  • The Role of Irony in Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • Investigating the Theme of Love in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”
  • Rhetorical Effect of Hyperbole in Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels”
  • Recognizing the Symbolism of the Mockingbird in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Exploring the Theme of Power in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm”
  • The Artistic Techniques in Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple”

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Marketing Campaigns

  • Analysis of the Impact: Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign
  • Examining Rhetoric: Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” Campaign
  • Unveiling Persuasive Techniques: Apple’s “Think Different” Campaign
  • Decoding Messaging Strategies: Dove’s “Real Beauty” Initiative
  • Evaluating Effectiveness: Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Advertisements
  • Investigating Rhetorical Devices: Red Bull’s “Gives You Wings” Marketing Approach
  • Dissecting Emotional Appeal: Always’ “Like a Girl” Initiative
  • Unraveling Storytelling Techniques: Airbnb’s “Belong Anywhere” Promotions
  • Analyzing Ethical Appeals: Patagonia’s “Don’t Buy This Jacket” Messaging
  • Explaining Symbolic Language: McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” Advertising Campaign
  • Persuasive Strategies: Volkswagen’s “Think Small” Marketing Drive
  • Investigating Cultural Significance: Starbucks’ “Race Together” Initiative
  • Rhetorical Tactics in P&G’s “Thank You, Mom” Ad Campaign
  • Dissecting Humor and Wit: Geico’s “15 Minutes Could Save You 15% or More” Commercials
  • Unraveling the Message: Nike’s “Equality” Marketing Approach
  • Analyzing Visual Rhetoric: Pepsi’s “Live for Now” Advertising Strategy
  • Examining Social Commentary: Ben & Jerry’s “If It’s Melting, It’s Mishandling” Campaign
  • Investigating Storytelling Techniques: Airbnb’s “We Accept” Promotional Campaign
  • Scrutinizing Persuasive Appeals: Coca-Cola’s “Open Happiness” Marketing Drive
  • Emotional Impacts: Always’ “End Period Poverty” Initiative

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Movies

  • Captivating Portrayal: Analyzing the Character Development in “The Shawshank Redemption”
  • Cinematic Artistry: Evaluating the Visual Storytelling Techniques in “Inception”
  • Sociopolitical Commentary: Examining the Symbolism in “Get Out”
  • Emotional Impact: Decoding the Narrative Structure of “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
  • Gender Dynamics: Unraveling the Power Dynamics in “Mad Max: Fury Road”
  • Psychological Depth: Scrutinizing the Mental Journey of the Protagonist in “Black Swan”
  • Cultural Representation: Assessing the Portrayal of Identity in “Crazy Rich Asians”
  • Aesthetic Choices: Dissecting the Cinematography and Set Design in “Blade Runner 2049”
  • Social Inequality: Analyzing Class Divisions in “Parasite”
  • Genre Subversion: Unpacking the Narrative Twists in “Fight Club”
  • Historical Accuracy: Evaluating the Depiction of Events in “Schindler’s List”
  • Moral Dilemmas: Examining the Ethical Choices in “The Dark Knight”
  • Environmental Themes: Interpreting the Allegory of Nature in “Avatar”
  • Symbolic Motifs: Decoding the Repetitive Elements in “Pulp Fiction”
  • Subtextual Meanings: Unraveling the Hidden Messages in “The Matrix”
  • Cultural Impact: Assessing the Influence of “Star Wars” on Popular Culture
  • Artistic Collaboration: Scrutinizing the Director-Cinematographer Relationship in “Birdman”
  • Historical Context: Analyzing the Political Commentary in “V for Vendetta”
  • Visual Metaphors: Examining the Use of Imagery in “Pan’s Labyrinth”
  • Psychological Thrills: Dissecting the Mind Games in “Gone Girl”
  • Representation of Love: Interpreting the Romantic Relationships in “La La Land”

Poetry Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Nature’s Elegy: Exploring the Symbolism of the Wandering River
  • Hope’s Resurgence: Analyzing the Metaphorical Wings of Freedom
  • Solitude’s Symphony: Unraveling the Rhetoric of Isolation and Reflection
  • Resilient Whispers: Decoding the Personification of Autumn Leaves
  • Endless Tides: A Rhetorical Study of the Ocean’s Eternal Dance
  • Serenity’s Riddle: Unveiling the Metaphorical Depths of a Calm Lake
  • Echoes of Time: Dissecting the Symbolism of Ancient Ruins
  • Whispering Zephyrs: Unraveling the Language of Gentle Breezes
  • Forgotten Melodies: Analyzing the Metaphorical Allure of Abandoned Music
  • Shattered Reflections: Exploring the Symbolism of Broken Mirrors
  • Enigmatic Shadows: A Rhetorical Study of Darkness and Mystery
  • A Dying Flame: Decoding the Metaphorical Language of Fading Passion
  • Captive Stars: Unveiling the Symbolism of a Moonlit Night
  • Illusion’s Veil: Dissecting the Rhetoric of Deceptive Appearances
  • Silent Embers: Analyzing the Metaphorical Depth of Ashen Memories
  • Forgotten Footsteps: Exploring the Symbolism of a Deserted Path
  • Murmuring Whispers: A Rhetorical Study of the Language of Wind
  • The Phoenix’s Flight: Decoding the Symbolism of Rebirth and Transformation
  • Vanishing Horizons: Unraveling the Metaphorical Language of Fading Dreams
  • Enchanted Murmurs: Analyzing the Symbolism of a Whispering Forest

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Political Speeches

  • The Language of Leadership: Analyzing Margaret Thatcher’s “The Lady’s Not for Turning”
  • Communicating Unity: Examining Jacinda Ardern’s Response to the Christchurch Mosque Shootings
  • Shaping History: Analyzing Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address
  • The Power of Hope: Exploring John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Speech
  • Navigating Crisis: Evaluating George W. Bush’s Address After 9/11
  • Inspiring Action: A Rhetorical Analysis of Malala Yousafzai’s Speech to the United Nations
  • Crafting a Vision: Analyzing Ronald Reagan’s “Tear Down This Wall” Speech
  • A Call for Justice: Examining Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Dissenting Opinions
  • Defending Equality: Analyzing Emma Watson’s UN Speech on Gender Equality
  • Uniting a Nation: A Rhetorical Analysis of Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address
  • Communicating Change: Evaluating Greta Thunberg’s Speeches on Climate Action
  • The Language of Freedom: Analyzing Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” Speech
  • Championing Civil Rights: A Rhetorical Analysis of Lyndon B. Johnson’s “We Shall Overcome” Speech
  • Raising Awareness: Exploring Michelle Obama’s Speech on Childhood Obesity
  • The Power of Perseverance: Analyzing Steve Jobs’ Stanford Commencement Address
  • Communicating Diplomacy: Evaluating Kofi Annan’s United Nations Speeches
  • Inspiring Patriotism: A Rhetorical Analysis of Ronald Reagan’s “Morning in America” Campaign Commercial
  • The Voice of Resistance: Analyzing Aung San Suu Kyi’s Speeches During Myanmar’s Struggle for Democracy
  • Challenging Injustice: Examining Clarence Darrow’s Closing Argument in the Scopes Monkey Trial
  • Speaking Truth to Power: A Rhetorical Analysis of Elizabeth Warren’s Senate Speech on Wealth Inequality
  • The Art of Negotiation: Analyzing Henry Kissinger’s Diplomatic Speeches

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Presidential Debates

  • The Impact of Presidential Debate Format on Voter Perception
  • Rhetorical Devices: Analyzing Their Effectiveness in Presidential Debates
  • Nonverbal Communication: Its Role in Presidential Debates
  • Moderator Questions: Influence on Presidential Debate Outcomes
  • Emotional Appeals in Presidential Debates: An Investigation
  • Strategies Used by Presidential Candidates in Addressing Social Issues: A Critique
  • The Power of Persuasive Language in Presidential Debates
  • Fact-Checking: Understanding Its Role in Presidential Debates
  • Deceptive Rhetoric in Presidential Debates: Ethical Implications
  • Humor as a Rhetorical Strategy in Presidential Debates: Evaluating Its Use
  • Audience Engagement in Presidential Debates: An Analysis
  • Closing Statements in Presidential Debates: Assessing Their Effectiveness
  • Body Language and Voter Perception in Presidential Debates: Investigating the Impact
  • Rhetorical Fallacies in Presidential Debates: Evaluating Their Influence
  • Public Speaking Skills in Presidential Debates: Unpacking Their Role
  • Power Dynamics in Presidential Debates: Understanding Their Significance
  • Media Coverage and Presidential Debate Outcomes: Analyzing the Influence
  • Historical References in Presidential Debates: Examining Their Use
  • Gender and Language in Presidential Debates: Critiquing the Role
  • Candidate Debates and Voter Decision-Making: Assessing the Impact

Public Debates Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Government Regulation of Big Tech Companies: Pros and Cons
  • Environmental Activism: Analyzing Climate Change Debates
  • Gun Control: Examining the Second Amendment in Modern Society
  • The Rhetoric of Immigration Policy: Balancing Security and Compassion
  • Analyzing the Racial Justice Movement: Black Lives Matter vs. All Lives Matter
  • Debating Healthcare: Universal Coverage vs. Private Insurance
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Feminism in the #MeToo Movement
  • Education Reform: Traditional Teaching Methods vs. Progressive Approaches
  • The Rhetoric of LGBTQ+ Rights: Equality vs. Religious Freedom
  • Focusing on the Rhetoric of Economic Inequality: Capitalism vs. Socialism
  • Free Speech on College Campuses: Protecting Diversity of Thought vs. Ensuring Safety
  • The Rhetorical Strategies Used in Political Campaigns and Elections
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Police Brutality and Law Enforcement
  • The Debate on Affirmative Action: Equality vs. Meritocracy
  • The Rhetoric of Vaccination: Public Health vs. Personal Freedom
  • Explaining the Rhetoric of Nationalism and Globalism in International Relations
  • Expanding on the Rhetoric of Protests and Civil Disobedience
  • Animal Rights: Ethical Treatment vs. Human Interests
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Capital Punishment: Justice vs. Human Rights
  • The Rhetoric of Drug Policy: Criminalization vs. Harm Reduction
  • Understanding the Rhetoric of Privacy: National Security vs. Individual Liberty

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Scientific Articles

  • Persuasive Techniques in Scientific Papers on Alternative Energy Sources
  • Exploring Rhetorical Appeals in Articles Addressing the Link Between Diet and Health
  • Assessing the Influence of Rhetoric in Studies on Artificial Intelligence
  • Strategies in Articles on Stem Cell Research and Ethics
  • Investigating Persuasive Tactics in Papers on Mental Health Treatments
  • Analyzing Devices Used to Communicate Climate Change Risks
  • Examining the Effectiveness of Rhetoric in Articles on Ocean Conservation
  • Shaping Public Opinion on Genetic Cloning
  • Analyzing Techniques in Articles on Environmental Pollution
  • Addressing Strategies in Papers on Neurological Disorders
  • Influence of Rhetoric on Public Perception of Nanotechnology in Research
  • Explaining Rhetorical Appeals in Articles on Evolutionary Biology
  • Language and Argumentation in Papers on Artificial Intelligence Ethics
  • Persuasive Tactics Used in Articles on Sustainable Development
  • Communicating Risks of Nuclear Energy
  • Good Strategies in Articles on Human Genome Editing
  • Analyzing the Effectiveness of Rhetoric in Papers on Cancer Treatments
  • Assessing the Influence of Rhetoric in Articles on Climate Change Mitigation
  • Exploring Appeals in Studies on Genetic Disorders

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Social Justice Movements

  • The Evolution of Feminism: Analyzing the Impact on Social Justice Movements
  • Examining the Rhetoric of the Civil Rights Movement: Strategies and Outcomes
  • The Power of Language: Analyzing Speeches in LGBTQ+ Rights Activism
  • Environmental Justice Advocacy: A Rhetorical Analysis of Climate Change Activism
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Indigenous Rights Movements: Representation and Resistance
  • Nonviolent Communication in Anti-War Activism: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Disability Rights: Breaking Barriers and Promoting Inclusion
  • Examining the Language of Immigration Justice Movements: Identity, Belonging, and Equality
  • The Power of Visual Rhetoric in Social Justice Advocacy: Analyzing Protest Art
  • Expanding on the Rhetoric of the Black Lives Matter Movement: Mobilization and Media Discourse
  • Persuasion and Women’s Suffrage: A Rhetorical Analysis of Suffragette Activism
  • The Rhetoric of Workers’ Rights: Empowering Laborers for Equality
  • Analyzing the Language of Human Rights Advocacy: Voices of Justice and Empathy
  • Understanding the Rhetoric of Prison Reform: Restorative Justice and Rehabilitation
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Anti-Discrimination Campaigns: Promoting Equality and Social Change
  • Indigenous Land Rights Movements: A Rhetorical Analysis of Cultural Preservation and Sovereignty
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Gun Control Advocacy: Safety, Freedom, and Responsibility
  • Intersectionality in Social Justice Campaigns: Analyzing Voices of Marginalized Communities
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Animal Rights Activism: Analyzing Language and Ethical Appeal
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Disability Justice: Empowering Disabled Individuals

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Social Media Posts

  • Rhetorical Strategies in Political Campaigns on Social Media
  • Analyzing Anti-Bullying Campaigns’ Persuasive Techniques Online
  • Environmental Activists’ Language and Strategies on Social Media Posts
  • Emotional Language in Online Activism
  • Ethical Implications of Sponsored Content on Social Media
  • Social Media Celebrity Endorsements: Unveiling the Strategies
  • Hashtag Movements: Effectiveness in Promoting Social Change
  • Cyberbullying Rhetoric and Its Impact on Victims
  • Online Fundraising Campaigns: Language and Appeals Evaluation
  • Rhetorical Devices in Political Satire on Social Media
  • The Power of Memes as Persuasive Tools in Online Communication
  • Language and Strategies in Online Dating Profiles
  • Brand Advertising on Social Media: Analyzing Techniques
  • Social Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion and Political Discourse
  • Manipulative Language in Online Clickbait Articles: Critique
  • Rhetorical Techniques in Online Product Reviews
  • Rhetoric of Online Activism for Gender Equality
  • Health and Wellness Influencers’ Language on Social Media
  • Personal Narratives in Social Media Advocacy
  • Rhetoric of Conspiracy Theories on Social Media

Speeches Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • Examining Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fireside Chat on the New Deal
  • Analyzing Aung San Suu Kyi’s Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance Speech
  • Evaluating Theodore Roosevelt’s “The Man in the Arena” Speech
  • Decoding Angela Merkel’s Address on Refugee Crisis and European Solidarity
  • Unveiling the Rhetoric in Michelle Obama’s Democratic National Convention Speech
  • Breaking Down Mahatma Gandhi’s “Quit India” Speech
  • Assessing John F. Kennedy’s Moon Landing Speech at Rice University
  • Investigating Emma Gonzalez’s Speech on Gun Control: “We Call BS”
  • Critiquing Ronald Reagan’s Challenger Disaster Address
  • Interpreting Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?” Speech
  • Dissecting Winston Churchill’s “The Few” Speech on the Battle of Britain
  • Examining Nelson Mandela’s “An Ideal for Which I Am Prepared to Die” Speech
  • Analyzing Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Supreme Court Confirmation Hearing Statement
  • Uncovering the Rhetorical Strategies in Elizabeth Warren’s “Nevertheless, She Persisted” Speech
  • Evaluating Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail”
  • Exploring Malala Yousafzai’s Speech to the United Nations Youth Assembly
  • Understanding Barack Obama’s Speech on Race: “A More Perfect Union”
  • Focusing on Susan Rice’s Commencement Address: “Stay Awake and Be Woke”
  • Interpreting Angela Merkel’s Speech on Germany’s Energy Transition
  • Addressing Patrick Henry’s “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” Speech

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Sports Commentary

  • The Impact of Sports Commentators on Viewer Engagement
  • Rhetorical Strategies Employed in Football Commentary
  • Language Techniques Used in Tennis Broadcasts
  • Effectiveness of Basketball Commentators in Creating Narrative
  • Persuasive Techniques of Soccer Commentators
  • The Use of Metaphors in Golf Commentary
  • Roles of Sports Commentators in Shaping Public Perception
  • Critiquing the Rhetoric of Baseball Commentators
  • Influence of Language on Hockey Broadcasts
  • Verbal Strategies of Motorsport Commentators
  • Emotional Appeal in Sports Commentaries
  • Ethical Responsibility of Commentators in Sports Broadcasting
  • Language Devices Used in Boxing Commentaries
  • Roles of Commentators in Enhancing Sports Spectatorship
  • Rhetorical Tactics of Rugby Commentators
  • Persuasive Techniques in Olympic Games Commentary
  • Language Choices in Cricket Broadcasts
  • Narrative Building in Track and Field Commentaries
  • Influence of Rhetoric on Cycling Broadcasts
  • Verbal Strategies of Winter Sports Commentators
  • Impacts of Commentators on Women’s Sports Representation

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Stand-Up Comedy Specials

  • Humor and Social Commentary: “The Manifesto of Hilarity”
  • Exploring Cultural Stereotypes in “Laughing Across Borders”
  • Analyzing Satire and Political Critique: “Comic Revolution”
  • The Power of Irony: “Jokes and Paradoxes”
  • Deconstructing Gender Roles: “Breaking the Mold of Laughter”
  • Examining Dark Comedy and Taboo Topics: “Shadows of Laughter”
  • Unveiling the Art of Timing: “The Perfect Punchline”
  • The Use of Personal Narratives: “Unveiling Comedy”
  • Linguistic Techniques: “The Language of Laughter”
  • The Role of Improvisation: “Unleashing Spontaneity”
  • Exploring Wordplay: “Laughter With Language”
  • Focusing on the Comedian-Audience Relationship: “Creating Laughter’s Connection”
  • Comedy as a Coping Mechanism: “Finding Laughter in Darkness”
  • The Social Impact of Stand-Up Comedy: “Changing Minds, One Joke at a Time”
  • Deconstructing Comedy Styles: “The Evolution of Laughter”
  • The Art of Physical Comedy: “Body Language and Hilarity”
  • Examining Cultural Appropriation: “Laughter Across Boundaries”
  • Unveiling the Role of Silence: “The Power of Pauses”
  • Exploring Comedic Timing and Delivery: “Cue the Laughs”
  • The Use of Exaggeration: “Amplifying the Absurd”

Ted Talks Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The Power of Vulnerability: Analyzing Brene Brown’s Persuasive Techniques
  • Decoding Body Language: Unraveling Amy Cuddy’s Impactful Presentation
  • Unleashing Creativity: Examining Elizabeth Gilbert’s Artful Rhetoric
  • Science of Happiness: Dissecting Shawn Achor’s Compelling Argument
  • Crafting an Inspiring Narrative: Assessing Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Storytelling Techniques
  • Harnessing the Potential of Introverts: Evaluating Susan Cain’s Convincing Arguments
  • The Art of Storytelling: Analyzing Andrew Stanton’s Captivating Presentation
  • Redefining Success: Unpacking Arianna Huffington’s Persuasive Messaging
  • Exploring the Surprising Science of Motivation: Dissecting Dan Pink’s Convincing Evidence
  • Tapping Into the Power of Introversion: Assessing Matthew Walker’s Compelling Talk
  • The Transformative Power of Education: Evaluating Sir Ken Robinson’s Persuasive Appeal
  • The Future of Technology: Analyzing Elon Musk’s Visionary Rhetoric
  • Impacts of Emotional Intelligence: Unraveling Daniel Goleman’s Persuasive Argument
  • Challenging Stereotypes: Assessing Jamila Lyiscott’s Powerful Presentation
  • Navigating Cultural Differences: Evaluating Pico Iyer’s Compelling Insights
  • Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change: Analyzing Jia Jiang’s Persuasive Journey
  • Redefining Leadership: Examining Simon Sinek’s Inspiring Rhetorical Strategies
  • Fostering Global Understanding: Dissecting Hans Rosling’s Compelling Data
  • Raising Awareness on Climate Change: Assessing Al Gore’s Persuasive Discourse
  • The Influence of Music: Analyzing Benjamin Zander’s Persuasive Interpretation
  • Unleashing the Potential of Introverted Thinkers: Unpacking Susan Cain’s Convincing Argument
  • The Real Story of Rosa Parks
  • Tiny Robots With Giant Potential
  • What Ocean Microbes Reveal About the Changing Climate
  • Imaginative Sculptures That Explore How We Perceive Reality
  • How Teachers Can Help Students Navigate Trauma
  • It’s OK to Feel Overwhelmed
  • How Virtual Reality Turns Students Into Scientists
  • How the Magic of Kindness Helped Me Survive the Holocaust
  • What We Do (and Don’t) Know About the Coronavirus
  • Dictators Hate Political Cartoons – So I Keep Drawing Them
  • What a Nun Can Teach a Scientist About Ecology
  • The Health Benefits of Clowning Around
  • What If the Poor Were Part of City Planning
  • The Tyranny of Merit
  • How Do Daily Habits Lead to Political Violence
  • Big Data, Small Farms and a Tale of Two Tomatoes
  • Dear Facebook, This Is How You’re Breaking Democracy
  • A Brief Tour of the Last 4 Billion Years
  • Why Specializing Early Doesn’t Always Mean Career Success
  • What It Means to Be Intersex
  • The Science of Friction
  • How Bees Can Keep the Peace
  • A New Type of Medicine
  • Parasitic Worms Hold Back Human Progress
  • Online Predators Spread Fake Porn of Me
  • Can You Really Tell If a Kid Is Lying
  • The Next Outbreak? We’re Not Ready
  • My Son Was a Columbine Shooter. This Is My Story.
  • The Orchestra in My Mouth
  • How Animals and Plants Are Evolving in Cities
  • A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit
  • Dignity Isn’t a Privilege. It’s a Worker’s Right.
  • What Makes a Good Life? Lessons From the Longest Study on Happiness
  • 4 Steps to Ending Extreme Poverty
  • 10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation
  • What Saturn’s Most Mysterious Moon Could Teach Us
  • Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator
  • The Power of Vulnerability
  • My Escape From North Korea
  • Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are
  • How to Spot a Liar
  • Strange Answers to the Psychopath Test
  • The Art of Misdirection
  • How I Held My Breath for 17 Minutes
  • Looks Aren’t Everything. Believe Me, I’m a Model
  • How to Speak So That People Want to Listen
  • Everything You Think You Know About Addiction Is Wrong
  • The Future We’re Building – and Boring
  • Your Brain Hallucinates Your Conscious Reality

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

  • The Impact of Color Symbolism on Contemporary Advertising
  • Exploring the Use of Body Language in Political Campaigns
  • Analyzing Visual Metaphors in Environmental Awareness Campaigns
  • Unveiling Gender Stereotypes in Fashion Magazine Covers
  • The Rhetoric of Power: Visual Representations of Historical Leaders
  • Decoding the Role of Typography in Brand Identity Design
  • Visualizing Social Inequality: A Critical Analysis of Infographics
  • The Art of Persuasion: Analyzing Visual Elements in Propaganda Posters
  • Representations of Beauty Standards in Cosmetics Advertisements
  • Environmental Activism Through Visual Storytelling
  • Visualizing Global Climate Change: The Role of Data Visualization
  • Analyzing Visual Framing in News Media Coverage of Social Issues
  • The Subtle Language of Minimalism: Analyzing Design Principles in Modern Architecture
  • Visualizing Cultural Identity: An Examination of National Flag Designs
  • The Power of Imagery in Political Cartoons
  • Analyzing the Use of Symbols in Corporate Logos
  • Deconstructing Visual Narratives in Film Posters
  • Analyzing the Portrayal of Women in Magazine Advertisements
  • The Politics of Visual Representation: A Comparative Analysis of Political Campaign Posters
  • Decoding Persuasive Techniques in Infographic Design

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Visual Art Installations

  • Impact of Color: Analyzing the Rhetorical Strategies in a Vibrant Sculpture Installation
  • Deconstructing Identity: Examining the Symbolism and Semiotics of a Contemporary Art Installation
  • Unveiling Power Dynamics: A Rhetorical Analysis of Political Commentary in a Visual Art Installation
  • Evoking Emotion: Exploring the Rhetorical Devices in a Moving Photography Installation
  • Disrupting Boundaries: Investigating the Rhetorical Tactics of an Interactive Video Art Installation
  • Challenging Social Norms: Analyzing the Subversive Messaging in a Street Art Installation
  • Transforming Spaces: Rhetorical Strategies in an Immersive Multimedia Installation
  • Capturing the Essence: An In-Depth Analysis of Symbolism in a Site-Specific Art Installation
  • Reclaiming History: Uncovering the Rhetoric of Memory in a Public Art Installation
  • Questioning Reality: Examining the Persuasive Techniques in a Surrealist Art Installation
  • Confronting Environmental Crisis: A Rhetorical Analysis of a Sculptural Installation on Climate Change
  • Reshaping Perceptions: Analyzing the Rhetoric of Gender in a Contemporary Art Installation
  • Amplifying Voices: Investigating the Rhetorical Power of Collective Identity in an Installation Artwork
  • Provoking Contemplation: A Critical Analysis of Minimalist Art Installations
  • Celebrating Diversity: Rhetorical Strategies in a Mosaic Installation Representing Cultural Heritage
  • Illuminating Truths: Examining the Persuasive Tactics of Light Art Installations
  • Conveying Social Commentary: A Rhetorical Analysis of a Public Sculpture Installation
  • Eliciting Empathy: Analyzing the Rhetoric of Compassion in a Participatory Art Installation
  • Shaping Space: Unveiling the Rhetorical Significance of Installation Art in Architecture
  • Navigating Time: A Critical Analysis of Historical References in a Time-Based Art Installation
  • Blurring Boundaries: Investigating the Rhetorical Devices in an Abstract Installation Artwork

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

Recent Student Opinion and Picture Prompts, categorized by topic, to help students discover the issues that matter to them.

rhetorical essays topics

By The Learning Network

Update: This list is available as a PDF .

If you’ve taught argument writing with our resources in the past, you already know we ask a fresh question every day as part of our long-running Student Opinion series . Teenagers around the world are invited to visit and post their thoughts on topics including politics, medical ethics, fashion, sports and entertainment.

We’ve rounded up lists of these prompts in the past, but this year we’re doing something new: Below you can find a categorized collection of all our recent, relevant Student Opinion questions, but alongside them we’re also including related Picture Prompts. These short, image-based forums are accessible to learners of all ages, but still provide engaging jumping-off points to help students make and support claims.

For instance, let’s say your class is interested in meme culture. A Student Opinion question asks, “ Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? ” and invites students to read and weigh in on a New York Times article that examines the role of memes in how teenagers process world events. Over 700 students have already submitted their thoughts .

But if you scan the “Technology and Social Media” category below, you’ll see we also have a Picture Prompt that asks a more direct, concrete question: “ What are your favorite memes? ” For many, that may be a fun, comfortable place to start.

So give your students both “voice and choice” by inviting them to find the questions and format that speak to them. All the prompts below are still open for comment. We look forward to seeing which ones inspire the most passionate arguments, and we invite your class to submit the results to our Eighth Annual Editorial Contest .

Argumentative Prompt Topics

Technology & social media, coronavirus, college & career, mental & physical health, race & gender, parenting & childhood, ethics & morality, government & politics, other questions.

Article-Based Prompts

1. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 2. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 3. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 4. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 5. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 6. Where Should We Draw the Line Between Community Health and Safety and Individual Liberty and Privacy? 7. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can Be Dangerous? 8. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 9. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 10. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 11. Do You Trust Facebook? 12. Do You Think Recreational Drones Are Safe? 13. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 14. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 15. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 16. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

Image-Based Prompts

17. Online Video Games : Does more need to be done to make online gaming communities safer? 18. A Computer in Everything : Do “smart” devices worry you? 19. Snail Mail : Do you think handwritten cards and letters still have value in the digital age? 20. Cyberbullying : Should social media companies do more to prevent online harassment? 21. Phone Manners : Are there times when you think using your phone while you’re with other people is rude? 22. Alarm Clocks : Are there any “dumb” devices that you think are better than “smart” devices? 23. Phone Warnings : Should tech devices come with addiction advisories? 24. Phones in Church : Are there some places where phones just don’t belong? 25. Driverless Cars : What do you think about driverless cars? 26. Texting While Walking : Should looking at your phone while crossing the street be illegal? 27. Device Addiction? : As a society, are we too addicted to our devices? 28. ‘A Man Needs His Nuggs’ : What do you think of Carter Wilkerson’s quest, and its results? 29. Soothing Video Games : Can video games intended to calm the mind be fun? Worthwhile? 30. Our Lives on Social Media : How much do you think we can judge our collective happiness by what is posted on social media? 31. ‘Bracelet of Silence’ : Would you wear privacy armor? 32. Baby Yoda : What are your favorite memes? 33. Tesla’s ‘Cybertruck’ : What do you think of this “pickup of the future”? 34. The ‘Bird Box’ Challenge : What do you think of social media challenges like this one?

35. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 36. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 37. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 38. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 39. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 40. When the Pandemic Ends, Will School Change Forever? 41. Should Schools Change How They Grade Students During the Pandemic? 42. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 43. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 44. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 45. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 46. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 47. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 48. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 49. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 50. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 51. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 52. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 53. Should Your School Day Start Later? 54. Should Yearbooks Include Political News? 55. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 56. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 57. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 58. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 59. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 60. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 61. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 62. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 63. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 64. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 65. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 66. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 67. Does Your School Need More Money? 68. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 69. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 70. Do Kids Need Recess? 71. Should Public Preschool Be a Right for All Children?

72. Graduation in a Pandemic : Is your school doing enough to honor seniors? 73. Most Challenged Books : Are there books that don’t belong in schools or public libraries? 74. Mascot : If you could choose one mascot to represent your school, what would it be? 75. Math : How do you feel about math? 76. Sleep Deprivation : Do you think school should start later for teenagers? 77. Standardized Tests : Is there too much testing at your school? Why or why not? 78. Teacher Walkouts : Do you think teachers should be paid more? Why or why not? 79. Mermaid School : If there could be a special school that would teach you something you really want to learn, what would that school be?

Article-Based Prompts 80. What Weaknesses and Strengths About Our World Are Being Exposed by This Pandemic? 81. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide What Stays Open and What Closes? 82. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 83. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 84. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 85. How Do You Feel About Mask-Slipping?

86. Surge : How should the United States keep the coronavirus pandemic at bay? 87. Masks : What “civic rules” do you think we should all follow now? 88. Paid to Laugh : Would you attend a live TV show taping — if you got money for it? 89. Dolly’s Donation : How do you feel about celebrity philanthropy? 90. Crowds and Covid : How do you feel about crowds during the pandemic? 91. Going Nowhere Fast : Would you take a flight to nowhere?

92. Should Students Be Required to Take the SAT and ACT to Apply to College? 93. Should National Service Be Required for All Young Americans? 94. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 95. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 96. Should Everyone Go to College? 97. Should College Be Free? 98. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 99. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 100. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 101. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 102. Is Student Debt Worth It? 103. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 104. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market?

105. Jack-of-All-Trades : Is it better to focus on one thing early in life and get really good at it?

106. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 107. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 108. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 109. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 110. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 111. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 112. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 113. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 114. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 115. Do You Believe in Manifesting?

116. Optimism : Is your glass half-empty or half-full? 117. Cursing : Is it ever OK, useful or even healthy to curse? Or is it always inappropriate? 118. Anger Rooms : Do you think places like this are a good idea?

119. What Is Your Reaction to the Days of Protest That Followed the Death of George Floyd? 120. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 121. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 122. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 123. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 124. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 125. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 126. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 127. What Should #MeToo Mean for Teenage Boys? 128. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 129. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 130. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

131. Fashion-Show Diversity : What other industries or aspects of life need more diversity? 132. A Town’s New Seal : Why do you think Whitesboro, N.Y., decided to change its seal? 133. Gender Expectations : Do you ever find gender expectations or norms confining? 134. Women’s History Month : What does this holiday mean to you? 135. Boys and Men : What does it mean to “be a man”? 136. Women in Movies : Should some movies dominated by male actors be remade with largely female casts? 137. Unisex Clothing : Should clothing labeling be unisex? 138. Feminism : Do you consider yourself a feminist? 139. Gender and ‘Genderless’ : Do you think that gender is binary?

140. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 141. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 142. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 143. What Role Should Celebrities Have During the Coronavirus Crisis? 144. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 145. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 146. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 147. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 148. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 149. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 150. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 151. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 152. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 153. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 154. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 155. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 156. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 157. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

158. Hologram Musicians : Which departed artists would you like to see perform live? 159. Movie Theaters : In the age of digital streaming, are movie theaters still relevant? 160. ‘The Image of the Revolution’ : What is it about this photograph that makes it so powerful? 161. Book Covers : What are your favorite book covers? Why? 162. Fashion Trends : What are your favorite fashion trends? What trends do you hate? 163. Fashion Comebacks : What trends from the past would you like to see revived? 164. Murals : Can art be an act of resistance? 165. An 18-Karat Throne : Is this art? 166. A Hug Seen Around the World : Why do you think this image became so popular so quickly? 167. The Role of Public Broadcasting : Do you think programs like “Sesame Street” make the U.S. smarter, stronger and safer? 168. Best Books? : What have you read and loved this year?

169. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 170. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 171. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 172. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 173. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 174. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 175. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 176. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 177. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 178. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

179. Brady’s Big Move : How do you feel about Tom Brady leaving the Patriots? 180. Tiger Woods Wins : What are the greatest comebacks in history? 181. Referees : Do sports officials deserve more respect? 182. $430 Million Deal : Is any athlete worth that amount of money? 183. Super Bowl Commercials : Was it smart for advertisers to steer clear of controversy in 2019? 184. Champions : What team in any sport would you like to see win a championship? 185. The Outspoken N.B.A. : Should all sports leagues treat political speech as a right for their players? 186. Gymnastics on Horseback : What is the world’s most difficult sport? 187. Tackle Football : Should children under the age of 12 play tackle football, in your opinion? 188. Breakdancing : Should dance be an Olympic event? 189. Coed Sports : Do you think women and men should compete against each other in sports? 190. Super Bowl Halftime Performer : Whom would you choose to perform at the Super Bowl, and why? 191. Colin Kaepernick’s Protest : What do you think of this protest?

192. Should Parents Track Their Children? 193. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 194. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 195. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 196. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 197. What Should We Call Your Generation? 198. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 199. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 200. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 201. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 202. When Do You Become an Adult?

203. Household Chores : Do you think children should help out around the house? 204. Spy Cams : Should parents use smart devices to keep tabs on their children when they’re home alone? 205. Adults With Rainbow Hair : Are there some trends adults just should not try? 206. Parenting Skills : Should parents say “no” more often when their children ask for new things?

207. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 208. What Makes a Great Leader? 209. Is It OK to Laugh During Dark Times? 210. Is It Immoral to Increase the Price of Goods During a Crisis? 211. Would You Allow an Ex-Prisoner to Live With You? 212. Would You Return a Lost Wallet? (What if It Had Lots of Money in It?) 213. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 214. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 215. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 216. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art? 217. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 218. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 219. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 220. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 221. Is It OK to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 222. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 223. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 224. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 225. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 226. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

227. World’s Big Sleep Out : What lengths would you go to in support of a worthy cause? 228. Tipping : Do you leave a tip whenever you’re asked to? 229. Cash Reward : Should you accept a cash reward for doing the right thing? 230. Cheating : Would you tell if you caught your classmates cheating? 231. Do Not Resuscitate : Should doctors have tried to revive this man? 232. Hitler and History : Should the bunker where Hitler killed himself be a tourist attraction? 233. Solving Global Problems : As the head of a global foundation, what problem would you solve?

234. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 235. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 236. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 237. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 238. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 239. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 240. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 241. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 242. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 243. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 244. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 245. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? 246. What Issues in the 2020 Presidential Race Are Most Important to You? 247. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 248. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? 249. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 250. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 251. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 252. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 253. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 254. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 255. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 256. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 257. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 258. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 259. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 260. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 261. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 262. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 263. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 264. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 265. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? 266. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues?

267. Government Buildings : Should they all look like the Lincoln Memorial? 268. Oprah for President : Would you vote for her if you could? 269. Peaceful Protesting : In what ways can you demonstrate peacefully to express your views? 270. Student Climate Strikes : What issues do you think deserve more attention? 271. Pennies : Should the United States get rid of the penny? 272. Mandatory Voting? : Should citizens who are 18 or older be required to vote? 273. Dabbing in Congress : Should this teenager have dabbed in his father’s official swearing-in photo? 274. Baby Bonds : Should the government give money to babies?

275. We Document Life’s Milestones. How Should We Document Death? 276. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 277. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 278. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 279. How Do You Decide What News to Believe, What to Question and What to Dismiss? 280. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five? 281. Should Public Transit Be Free? 282. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language? 283. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 284. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 285. What Do You Think of the #WalkUpNotOut Movement?

286. Teenage Drivers : What do you think of Georgia’s decision to issue driver’s licenses without road tests? 287. Snow Days : How do you feel about winter weather? 288. Fortune Tellers : Do you believe in psychics? 289. Big City, Small Town : Which would you rather live in? Why? 290. Game Show Winner : Would you ever want to be a contestant on a game show? 291. Fast-Food Buffet : Is this the feast of your dreams or your nightmares? 292. Public Libraries : Are libraries still relevant and important today? 293. Trans Fats : Should trans fats be banned around the world? 294. Dolls : If you could have your favorite toy company make a doll of someone, who would it be and why? 295. Creepy Clowns : How do you feel about clowns? 296. Tattoos : How do you feel about tattooing in general? 297. Brushing Beagle : What are the best dog breeds, in your opinion? 298. U.F.O.s : Do you believe that U.F.O.s are signs of alien life? 299. Small Talk : Do you have the gift of gab? 300. Lottery Winnings : Would you want to win the lottery? Why or why not?

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  3. 60+ Rhetorical Devices with Examples for Effective Persuasion ‱ 7ESL

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  4. 200+ Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics & Ideas for Students

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  5. 60+ Rhetorical Devices with Examples for Effective Persuasion ‱ 7ESL

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  2. ENGL 101 Rhetorical Analysis PT 1

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COMMENTS

  1. 120+ Interesting Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics (2024)

    Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics for 2023. "An Irish Airman Foresees His Death" by William Butler Yeats. "The Epic" by Alfred Lord Tennyson. "Shakespeare's Sonnets" by William Shakespeare. "The Rape of the Lock" by Alexander Pope. "England in 1819" by Percy Bysshe Shelley.

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    Visual rhetoric essay topics detail effective communication that is attained through the use and analysis of visual images, this is what differentiates it from other forms of rhetorical essays. Communication through visual presentation has been noted to be effective and visual rhetoric makes communication and understanding very easy. It occurs ...

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    The Rhetorical Analysis Essay. Moving on, if rhetoric is the art of persuasion, then the rhetorical analysis essay analyzes how an author or speaker creates opportunity for persuasion in his/her text. Writing a rhetorical analysis essay involves understanding of context and occasion for writing. It also involves understanding the subject matter ...

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    Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics on Culture. Culture-specific rhetorical strategies contribute to the unique characteristics of different societies. And studying them encourages the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. Through language, you will learn how cultural norms, values, and traditions are conveyed and reinforced. ...

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    Choosing your rhetorical analysis topic can be a real nail biter. To help you choose the best topic, explore these 40 unique rhetorical analysis essay topics covering media, movies, speeches, and literature.

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    Data privacy and social media- A detailed rhetorical analysis. College athletes' payment- A rhetorical analysis. Investigating gun legalization- Rhetorical analysis of this topic. These are some of the best rhetorical analysis example topics to consider for your essay or paper.

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    Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics & Ideas for Students. Rhetorical essay is a challenging task for some students, and it requires proper planning and time. In this type of essay, topic selection is the main thing, and many writers confuse it when choosing a topic for the essay. This blog will help you in selecting a topic for a rhetorical essay.

  8. How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis

    A rhetorical analysis is a type of essay that looks at a text in terms of rhetoric. This means it is less concerned with what the author is saying than with how they say it: their goals, techniques, and appeals to the audience. A rhetorical analysis is structured similarly to other essays: an introduction presenting the thesis, a body analyzing ...

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    Fiction Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics. O'Henry's "Witches Loaves". Rhetorical Analysis of "Huckleberry Finn". Rhetorical Analysis of "Fight Club". Michael Punke's "The Revenant""The White Heron" Analysis. Rhetorical Analysis of "Death of A Salesman". "The Lottery" Main ThemesLiterary Analysis of "Life In The Iron Mills".

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    Name the author of the text and the title of their work followed by the date in parentheses. Use a verb to describe what the author does, e.g. "implies," "asserts," or "claims". Briefly summarize the text in your own words. Mention the persuasive techniques used by the rhetor and its effect.

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    Rhetorical Essay Topics About Speeches. The "I Have A Dream" speech by Martin Luther King Jr. The "Second Inaugural Address" by Abraham Lincoln. The "Eulogy for Rosa Parks" by Bill Clinton. The "Inaugural Address" by Barack Obama. The "Farewell Address" by George Washington. The "I Am Somebody" speech by Jesse Jackson.

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    Rhetorical analysis essay topics always stood out from other tasks of similar nature. There are many assignments students get at college, but this one is more difficult, largely because few people understand what it even means. Rhetorical analysis means writing an essay where you research a specific text or speech and determine what elements it ...

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    Rhetoric in "Women in the Nineteenth Century" by Margaret Fuller. In her essay, she described women as holly and righteous as can be seen from the examples she gave about the knight who had the name of the Virgin on his lips. Rhetorical Problem of George H.W. Bush Speech Descriptive Analysis.

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    Rhetorical analysis essay topics refer to the subject matter in which researchers examine how different parts of a work produce a specific effect on the reader. They then develop an argument and find compelling evidence to support their opinion. Such topics focus on a particular work of literature, discourse, or art.

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    120 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics. When examining a non-fiction piece of content, be it literature, advertising, media promotions, or some other element of the written word, the term rhetorical analysis essay may be used. This essay format examines the creator's intentions and techniques to persuade the audience of a particular course of ...

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    Remember that you are writing for an audience and that you expect a good grade out of it. Think about what kind of topics your instructor would like or at least not object to. If you will be presenting it in class, go for a topic that your classmates will enjoy. 5. Strong and Clear Arguments.

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    Rhetoric is the art of persuasion through language, and writing a rhetoric essay can help you improve your skills in crafting compelling arguments. To help you get started, here are 120 rhetoric essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your next assignment: The role of rhetoric in political speeches

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    Rhetorical appeal #2: Pathos. The purpose of Pathos-driven rhetoric is to appeal to the reader's emotions. A common example of pathos as a rhetorical means is adverts by charities that try to make you donate money to a "good cause". To evoke the intended emotions in the reader, an author may use passionate language, tell personal stories ...

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    🎯 10 Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics. For those new to rhetorical analysis or looking for more straightforward subjects, these topics offer a gentler introduction. They focus on popular media and public campaigns, where rhetorical strategies are both prominent and accessible to beginners. Rhetorical Techniques in Super Bowl Commercials

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    Evaluate the rhetorical devices used by the author to depict the topic. Rhetorical Analysis Topics for Essay Writing. These are the rhetorical analysis topics for essay writing that will certainly benefit you in your literature courses. Why the theme of knowledge is the most important one in Fahrenheit 451.

  21. 200 Outstanding Rhetorical Analysis Topics For You

    Rhetorical Essay Topics For College Students. These professionally handpicked rhetorical analysis topics will benefit college students in their final year a great deal: The issues of rhetoric in Plato's, Republic; Why Martin Luther King's speech, "I Have a Dream" broke the internet

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    Rhetorical analysis essay topics can revolve around a range of intriguing subject areas. They involve dissecting the persuasive methods employed by authors in their works, such as written texts, objects, sculptures, visuals, advertisements, arts, or speeches. Some themes may span from analyzing landmark political speeches to unraveling the ...

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    19. Snail Mail: Do you think handwritten cards and letters still have value in the digital age? 20. Cyberbullying: Should social media companies do more to prevent online harassment? 21. Phone ...