The Modern Scholar

Way with Words: Writing Rhetoric and the Art of Persuasion

By: Professor Michael D. C. Drout

Narrated by: Professor Michael D. C. Drout

Length: 7 hrs and 48 mins

Publisher's summary

Esteemed professor Michael D. C. Drout brings his expertise in literary studies to the subject of rhetoric. From history-altering political speeches to friendly debates at cocktail parties, rhetoric holds the power to change opinions, spark new thoughts, and ultimately change the world.

The study of rhetoric not only leads to a greater understanding of how personages such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill elevated the power of speech to majestic heights, but also to a stronger proficiency in using rhetoric in anyone's day-to-day life.

Professor Drout examines the types of rhetoric and their effects, the structure of effective arguments, and how subtleties of language can be employed to engage in more successful rhetoric. Drout also ponders the role of rhetoric in our world and the age-old question of whether it is just a tool for convincing people of things that aren't true, or whether it is indeed a force for good that will ultimately lead to truth.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2006 Michael D.C. Drout (P)2006 Recorded Books, LLC

Great lecture

Professor Drout has to be one of the most gifted lecturers I have come accross in the Modern Scholar series, he makes the boring subjects (grammar) interesting, funny and lively.

Lively.

An understandable and lively presentation of ideas of rhetoric. He does teach the technical terms, for example petitio principii, and I was not able to remember them when he used them later in the presentation. But most of the time he does not rely on technical terminology. I wish this was available in book form so I could go back and study certain parts and create a new order of study to make new connections and really learn it. But the spoken form is a great way to present rhetoric because it allows the expressive quality to ring out.

Excellent book

I am an avid Audible enthusiast, yet I rarely take the time to write a review. This book has motivated me to break the pattern and share my perspective with you. I found Dr. Drout’s book on rhetoric easy to understand and his delivery is captivating. It is clear from the enthusiasm in his voice that he is passionate about the topics discussed. All of the content is worth worth your time, but the chapter on logical fallacies will make this book feel like an investment of your time. In my opinion, the value of the content as it relates to society today is immeasurable.

superb

superb lecture series. excellent delivery and development.

Interesting, useful and fun

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Modern Scholar?

I'm not sure the question is pertinent. I think the book is memorable because it has great and useful information, such as the the ways in which one can organize the material of an argument or, and this perhaps most particularly, the flaws of other's arguments

Any additional comments?

This is a great audiobook, the author and narrator is very entertaining, his observations very keen, his information relevant. It's one of those books which does two things: it makes you want to hear it again and again, and makes you want to explore other of his works.

I Loved this One!

Would you listen to The Modern Scholar again? Why?

Yes, there is so much interesting material gleamed from some of the most persuasive people in the history of mankind, one listen is definately not enough. Just listening to the diction of Dr. Drout is a treat and an inspiration to strive for more.

What other book might you compare The Modern Scholar to and why?

This was my second introduction to the Modern Scholar series, this is a profound series and worth the time to explore the titles available to the listener.

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

I was introduced to some very persuasive material from Martin Luther King. This inspired me to dig further on my own, looking to see how that man continued to use the skills that won him followers to his ideas. However, I do not think that I will fill my mouth with pebbles in an attempt to work on my own enunciation as Dr. Drout wistfully recalls from the 5th century BC Greek father of rhetoric, Gorgias.

More than just how to argue and persuade

A wonderful series of lectures. Rhetoric is not about manipulating people; it's about presenting your ideas clearly and logically. Prof Drout reminds me of some of the best teachers I had. He knows his subject, he knows how to present it, and the common ways that people misunderstand the concepts. He also has great stories and anecdotes.

Absolutely excellent.

Will listen again as it's so packed with information. Easy to follow and the style of presentation couldn’t be better.

Great intro to rhetoric

I found this a great introduction to rhetoric. I also enjoyed the passion the instructor expressed for this topic.

Great course. Great lecturer. Very interesting.

Very interesting even for professionals in the field of politics.
Recommended for everyone wanting to be better at pushing their message and goals.