Question 1

What is The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping about?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping is a comprehensive guide to persuasive writing and speaking that teaches 26 fundamental rules for making arguments stick. Published in 2016, this 116-page book provides practical instruction on the three modes of persuasion, essay structure, logical fallacies, and literary composition techniques. Drawing examples from masters like Cicero, Augustine, Shakespeare, Lincoln, and Chesterton, Topping offers a modern approach to classical rhetoric in the tradition of Strunk and White's The Elements of Style.

Question 2

Who should read The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric is designed for students, teachers, politicians, preachers, and anyone seeking to communicate more effectively. The book serves both beginners learning foundational persuasion techniques and experienced communicators refining their craft. It's particularly valuable for academic writers structuring essays, public speakers preparing presentations, and professionals who rely on clear, convincing communication in their work. Homeschoolers and educators teaching composition will find the included study guide with exercises especially useful.

Question 3

Is The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping worth reading?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric receives largely positive reviews for delivering concise, actionable guidance on persuasive communication. Reviewers praise Topping's accessible approach that makes classical rhetoric principles practical for modern audiences across all experience levels. Daniel B. Coupland of Hillsdale College calls it "a gem," while Quentin Schultze describes it as "a splendid introduction to what you need to know to communicate wisely and well." The book's compact 116-page format and clear structure make it an efficient investment for anyone serious about improving their writing and speaking skills.

Question 4

Who is Ryan N.S. Topping and what are his credentials?

Accepted Answer

Ryan N.S. Topping holds a Doctorate in Theology and M.Phil. from the University of Oxford, as well as an MA in Philosophy from the University of Manitoba. He formerly served as Professor of Theology and Director of the Benedict XVI Institute at Newman Theological College in Edmonton, Alberta. Dr. Topping has authored ten books on Catholic education and culture, published numerous academic articles, and is a popular conference speaker. His expertise spans systematic theology, moral philosophy, and classical rhetoric, bringing scholarly depth to practical communication instruction.

Question 5

What are the 26 rules of persuasion in The Elements of Rhetoric?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric presents 26 specific rules that cover the complete process of persuasive communication, from understanding your audience to crafting memorable conclusions. These rules address fundamental aspects like the three modes of persuasion (logos, ethos, pathos), proper essay structure, and avoiding logical fallacies. The rules also include practical composition techniques such as using the CERC method, preferring concrete language over abstractions, and ordering emotions effectively. Topping organizes these principles to guide writers through invention, arrangement, style, and delivery—the classical stages of rhetoric.

Question 6

What are the three modes of persuasion according to The Elements of Rhetoric?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric teaches the classical three modes of persuasion: logos (logical argument), ethos (credibility and character), and pathos (emotional appeal). Topping emphasizes that logos forms the foundation—rational argumentation with clear thesis, structure, and definitions must come first. For pathos, he advises writers to "order your emotions, appeal to head and heart, be vivid, prefer the concrete" to make words truly convince. The book demonstrates how mastering all three modes together creates the most powerful persuasive communication, using examples from historical masters of rhetoric.

Question 7

What is the CERC method in The Elements of Rhetoric by Ryan N.S. Topping?

Accepted Answer

The CERC method stands for Claim, Example, Reason, Claim—a fundamental template for persuasive communication that Ryan N.S. Topping identifies as a pattern used by effective speakers throughout history. This four-part structure involves stating your main point, illustrating it with a concrete example, providing logical reasoning to support it, then restating the claim for emphasis. Topping notes this was "an old habit already observed and recommended by Aristotle," and once you recognize the pattern, you'll see how consistently skilled communicators follow this template. The method provides a simple, memorable framework for organizing arguments clearly and convincingly.

Question 8

How does The Elements of Rhetoric compare to The Elements of Style?

Accepted Answer

The Elements of Rhetoric positions itself as the persuasion-focused companion to Strunk and White's The Elements of Style, which emphasizes grammar and clarity. While The Elements of Style teaches mechanical correctness and concise expression, Topping's book focuses specifically on argumentation, persuasion techniques, and rhetorical strategy. Both books share a compact, practical format with clear rules and abundant examples, but The Elements of Rhetoric addresses the broader question of how to convince audiences through logos, ethos, and pathos. Together, they form complementary guides—one for writing correctly, the other for writing persuasively.

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Key takeaways

The Lost Art That Shapes Our World

The Foundation: Clear Thinking, Clear Speaking

The Art of Persuasion: Emotion and Character

Embodying the Message: Voice and Presence

Strategic Communication: Purpose and Structure

The Garden of Rhetorical Devices

Truth Married to Beauty: The Path Forward

The Elements of Rhetoric -- How to Write and Speak Clearly and Persuasively by Ryan N.S. Topping Summary

Overview of The Elements of Rhetoric -- How to Write and Speak Clearly and Persuasively

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Key takeaways

The Lost Art That Shapes Our World

The Foundation: Clear Thinking, Clear Speaking

The Art of Persuasion: Emotion and Character

Embodying the Message: Voice and Presence

Strategic Communication: Purpose and Structure

The Garden of Rhetorical Devices

Truth Married to Beauty: The Path Forward

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