Dramatism

Question 1

What is dramatism?

Answer 1

A technique method of analysis of langauge and though as modes of action rather than as means of conveying

Question 2

Explain symbolic action.

Answer 2

• Human communication, the capacity of intentional action

- Action inevitably leads to drama

Question 3

What does Burke express about dramatism?

Answer 3

• Rhetoric is dramatic
• Features characters, settings, and plots
• Rhetorical speech is directed to a moral conflict

Question 4

What are the three points of dramatism?

Answer 4

1. Negative
   - use language to create rules, and standards of behaviours; “thou-shall-nots” of life
2. Hiearachy
   - use language to categorize and rank
3. Perfection
   - use language to “imagine” and strive for ideals

• We set ourselves up to guilt

Question 5

Explain the Guilt Redemption

Answer 5

• Motive of rhetoric: public search for someone or something to blame to get rid of bad feeling
• Feeling of guilt -> Purification (through mortification or victimage)-> redemption

Question 6

Define mortification.

Answer 6

• Speaker assumes responsibility for bad feelings, admits faults, and asks for forgiveness

Question 7

Explain Burke’s Dramatistic Pentad.

Answer 7

1. Act
   - Most important
   - Refers to what is done, core bit of drama
2. Agent
   - person who performed the act
   - not always the speaker
3. Agency
   - Means/tools used to perform and do act
   - Can be literal, or other things (apathy, anger)
4. Scene
   - Background, environment
5. Purpose
   - Reason for the act happening

Question 8

What is identification in rhetoric?

Answer 8

Building common ground that enhances persuasion (consubstantiality)

Question 9

What are the critiques of dramatism?

Answer 9

• Lacks aesthetic appeal (obscure, broad scope)

- There can be other motivations (e.g. love)