Jamieson meets Lucas: Eloquence and pedagogical model(s) in the art of public speaking

Abstract

The current state of speech pedagogy does not fully reflect modern theory and research. This paper critically evaluates the best‐selling public speaking textbook in America, Stephen Lucas's The Art of Public Speaking, in terms of Kathleen Hall Jamieson's redefinition of “eloquence in the electronic age.”; This paper explores how, if at all, the Lucas text takes account of the latest developments in rhetorical theory and changes in media technologies. Finally, the paper suggests how public speaking texts might uphold the classical virtues of eloquence while taking account of changes in the rhetorical environment.