Combining classical rhetorical strategies with readings on highly current topics, this argument rhetoric and reader is aimed at instructors who want their students to understand rhetorical principles, and apply them to their argumentative writing. 

The goal of Classical Techniques and Contemporary Arguments is to encourage students to link contemporary issues, such as patriotism and nationalism, gay and lesbian rights, and digital copyright laws to classical rhetorical concepts. Using a conversational style and accessible approach, the text identifies a variety of rhetorical strategies, explains them through extensive illustrative examples, and shows students how to apply these strategies to their writing.  Other distinctive features include chapter-length treatment s of reading rhetorically, writing a research paper, and recognizing and creating oral and visual arguments.