Rhetoric Society Quarterly Feb 2006

“Of What Use is a Gold Key?” Unlocking Discourses in Rhetorical Pedagogy

E. Johanna Hartelius The University of Texas at Austin

Abstract

ABSTRACT Applying a theory of homology to rhetorical pedagogy, this article suggests that Plato's and Augustine's discursive methods—dialectic and hermeneutics/homiletics respectively—function as unlocking devices via their formal structures. Dialectics unlock the discourses produced in/about the sensory world to reveal a higher level of material reality; hermeneutics/homiletics unlock Biblical ambiguities to produce a truer level of insight. Unlocking discourses, thus, give access to knowledge that would otherwise lie beyond reach for the untrained. The attention to form permits a different perspective on interpretation and pedagogy than more traditional approaches because it emphasizes audience's cognitive and “erotic” response to form and style.

Journal
Rhetoric Society Quarterly
Published
2006-02-25
DOI
10.1080/02773940500403652
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Closed
Topics
rhetorical criticism writing pedagogy editorial matter
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (3)

  1. Hartelius (2025)
    A Well-Trained Eye : Artificial Intelligence and the Epistechnics of Wonder
    Rhetoric Society Quarterly
  2. Owens (2018)
    In Lak’ech, The Chicano Clap, and Fear: A Partial Rhetorical Autopsy of Tucson’…
    College English
  3. Camper (2013)
    The Stylistic Virtues of Clarity and Obscurity in Augustine of Hippo's De doctr…
    Advances in the History of Rhetoric

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