Richard Leo Enos

The Art of Rhetoric at the Amphiareion of Oropos A Study of Epigraphical Evidence as Written Communication

Although the Amphiareion of Oropos is virtually unmentioned by ancient authors, epigraphical evidence reveals that for centuries this sanctuary was a frequent site of rhetorical and literary contests as well as a repository of written communication on these events. Based upon field work in Greece and archaeological reports, inscriptions are examined with other archaeological evidence to reconstruct the nature and duration of these events. This study illustrates that even a relatively small site can yield findings of major importance for the history of rhetoric and emphasizes that scholars should engage in such primary research.

Speaking of Cicero. . . and His Mother: A Research Note on an Ancient Greek Inscription and the Study of Classical Rhetoric

Marcus Tullius Cicero is one of the more prominent figures in the history of rhetoric. Our resources for studying Cicero are largely dependant upon literary texts that have been transmitted over centuries. This study examines a Greek inscription, housed at a remote archaeological site, that offers new insights into Ciceros contributions to our field. From this inscription we learn of Cicero as a patron of Greek literary and rhetorical arts. As is sometime the case when we examine primary material, new and unanticipated information appears. In this instance the inscription reveals that the name of Ciceros mother as recorded by Plutarch, may be inaccurate. In addition to these specific observations, this work illustrates that archaeological and epigraphical evidence are also valuable resources for studying the history of rhetoric.

Classical Rhetoric and Group Decision Making A Relationship Warranting Further Inquiry

This article argues that a modification of the heuristics of classical rhetoric will facilitate both an understanding of the dynamics of group decision making and provide a systematic process for attaining consensus.

Heuristic structures of Dispositio in oral and written rhetorical composition: An addendum to Ochs’ analysis of the Verrine Orations

Building on Ochs’ analysis of “rhetorical detailing” in Ciceros Verrine orations, this essay reveals that the disposition of arguments in the In Verrem shifted markedly from compositions which were structured for oral argument to those which were intended for public reading.

The advocates of pre‐ciceronian Rome: Cicero's standard for forensic oratory

Despite the impact of Roman advocates on such individuals as Cicero, information on those speakers who shaped the focus and standards for Latin rhetoric is virtually unknown. This study investigates both the extant fragments of these early orators and the commentary of their only real contemporarv critic. Cicero. An examination of this evidence is designed to meet a twofold need of a period which is a dark age in the history of rhetoric: first, an analysis of information on the orators who preceded Cicero; and second, a synthesis of findings which will provide insight into Ciceros standard for forensic oratory.

Socrates questions Gorgias: The rhetorical vector of Plato's “Gorgias”

This essay argues that Platos “Gorgias,” a dialogue lauding dialectic over rhetoric, uses a question-and-answer format as a heuristic of argument. Specific observations are advanced to explain the implications of Platos techniques and to provide a more sensitive understanding of the process by which sought to gain the adherence of his readers.