A Theory of Spectral Rhetoric: The Word between the Worlds

This book explores the rhetorical framework of spectral rhetoric, which combines Jacques Derrida's hauntology and spectrality with affect theory to analyze the felt absences and hauntings of written and oral texts. It provides three case studies from the Christian tradition and offers ideas for future applications of spectral rhetoric.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate realms of Jacques Derrida's hauntology and spectrality, seamlessly integrating them with affect theory to establish a rhetorical framework for analyzing the profound felt absences and haunting phenomena within written and oral texts. The book begins by tracing the historical roots of hauntology, spectrality, and affect theory, exploring how these concepts have been applied in various contexts. It then delves into the unique characteristics of the rhetorrectional situation, a framework that harnesses the power of spectral rhetoric to evoke and address the haunting presence of absence.

To illustrate the efficacy of spectral rhetoric, the book presents three compelling case studies drawn from the rich tapestry of the Christian tradition. The first case study, "The Great Divorce," is a fictional narrative by C.S. Lewis, which explores the concept of spiritual divorce and the longing for a deeper connection with God. The second case study, "The God Shaped Brain," is a non-fiction exploration by Tim Jennings, shedding light on the neurological mechanisms behind religious belief and the role of the brain in shaping our spiritual experiences. The third case study, "Bishop Michael Curry's Royal Wedding 2018 Sermon," is a powerful homiletic discourse delivered by Bishop Michael Curry during the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, emphasizing the intersection of love, faith, and social justice.

Following the conclusion of the case studies, the book offers a comprehensive summary of the key insights and applications of spectral rhetoric. It explores how spectral rhetoric can be used to address the haunting absence of historical figures, to evoke the memory of marginalized communities, and to promote social change and justice. The book also suggests potential future applications of spectral rhetoric in fields such as literature, theology, and cultural studies, where it can be used to deepen our understanding of the complex interplay between presence and absence, and to create more inclusive and empathetic narratives.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking exploration of the intersection of hauntology, spectrality, and affect theory, offering a powerful rhetorical framework for analyzing the felt absences and hauntings of written and oral texts. By presenting compelling case studies and offering a comprehensive summary of its applications, the book empowers readers to engage with the haunting presence of absence and to use spectral rhetoric as a tool for promoting social change and empathy.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030696818
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021