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

I think Mr Drout made me a believer in rhetoric

I chose this course because I've always been adept at writing and can always use a little more knowledge. Professor Drout is entertaining and does a great job of presenting the material. I would recommend this to anyone

Prof. Drout's "Way with Words: Writing Rhetoric"

What did you love best about The Modern Scholar?

He presented grammer, parts of speech and the idea of using rhetoric as a way of communicating to others in a very enjoyable, educational and extremely effective way. His lecture was really helpful in understanding the importance of grammer, for example, not as just some rules to follow, but choosing words carefully in communicating something precise to others, reducing confusion and ambiguity.

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

He analyzed a few famous speeches by deconstructing their meaning, useful common rhetorical strategies, and reasons for their effectiveness.

Which character – as performed by the narrator – was your favorite?

He didn't really perform any, but did a good job reading famous speeches like the original speaker.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Some of his stories about grammer mistakes and parts of speech people always get wrong were pretty funny. (He really doesn't like it when people get

Any additional comments?

Overall a really enjoyable audio book! It's something that, for me, has been really useful. I definitely will be listening to every now and again (to help me write and speak better).

A profound basic information

If you could sum up The Modern Scholar in three words, what would they be?

It is a real university lecture! Quality is there! Transition between the chapters are making the whole book fairly easy to ear. It is a good idea to link this book with a web site dedicated to its content.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

Persuasion is not really the point of this book...

What three words best describe the narrator’s performance?

Smart, pleasant, good.

Any additional comments?

I'd like to find a book getting deeper into persuasion! But this one is a really quality lecture!

Great course on rhetoric

I recommend this book for anyone who wants to understand rhetoric and get better at communicating with others. I especially think this material will benefit Toastmasters who want to expand beyond the TI program.

phenomenal

I've built a sizable library of lecture courses over the past 3 years, trying to construct my own little trivium. This series has been central to the design. Way with words I started it all.

Professor Drout, you're amazing.

What you should know, but didn't learn

Informative, entertaining, and useful. Absolutely worth listening to.

Fantastic

Who would think a subject like this could be so interesting and enjoyable. It is full and interesting from start to finish. The author/narrator is clear, cheerful and very interesting to listen to. I found it will help not only in writing but also speaking.
Very highly recommended for anyone whether writing, in sales, public speaking or just plain communicating.

Informative!!

This book is very informative and Great Read. I wished many times, that I heard/read this book during/before taking my degree. It is never late.

WIsh I'd known then...

While listening to Dr. Drout's lectures I found myself wishing I'd taken his course in college or, even better, in high school. It would have made my writing assignments much less painful and probably much better.

Excellent

Practical, entertaining and required listening for people who want to use words to change the world.