Maintains that the value of both critical theory and textual criticism derives from the extent to which they inform discussable practice and advance understanding of rhetorical communication; and that criticism can contribute to rhetorical theory. (SR)

Examines Mario Cuomo's keynote address at the 1984 Democratic National Convention as a case study in rhetorical interaction. Argues that the keynote setting presented both generic and immediate constraints, which Cuomo resolved through a rhetorical strategy rooted in metaphor as an argumentative technique. (MM)

Examines several books on the emergence and impact of the New Left which, as a collective resource, may give new direction and impetus to the rhetorical study of movements. Culls recurring themes that might inform the next phase of movement scholarship. Advocates this new scholarship as both due and promising. (SR)

Argues that a thematic approach to teaching criticism--based on frequent, integrated writing tasks--accommodates the constraints found in the typical undergraduate course on rhetorical criticism. Illustrates this approach with reference to two themes: Ronald Reagan's discourse and the rhetoric of war and peace. (MM)

Provides two contexts for rhetorical analyses of Lucretia Coffin Mott's speech on women: namely, the context defined Richard Henry Dana Sr.'s speech on women, which Mott heard and then responded to in her speech; and the context of contemporary feminist discourse which Mott comments on in an interesting way. (TB)