Language and Power on the Rhetorical Stage: Theory in the Body

Language and Power on the Rhetorical Stage explores how theater can enact critical discourse analysis and how micro-instances of iniquitous language use have been politically and historically reiterated to oppress and deny equal rights to marginalized groups of people. It uses critical discourse analysis and Judith Butlers theories of the performative body to explore how a handful of American plays in the latter part of the 20th century use rhetoric to perform and challenge marginalizing language about groups that are not offered center stage in public and political spheres.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Language and Power on the Rhetorical Stage delves into the captivating realm of theater as a powerful tool for enacting critical discourse analysis. By seamlessly blending narrative and analytical elements, the book explores how theater can effectively convey and analyze complex ideas, shedding light on the ways in which micro-instances of iniquitous language use have been politically and historically perpetuated to oppress and deny equal rights to marginalized groups of people.

Drawing inspiration from the rhetorical prowess of Aristophanes, the author posits the stage as a rhetorical site where we can observe, scrutinize, and deeply experience 20th-century rhetorical theories of the body. Through the lens of critical discourse analysis and Judith Butlers theories of the performative body, the book delves into the intricate ways in which a select group of American plays from the latter part of the 20th century—the works of Tony Kushner, Suzan Lori-Parks, and John Cameron Mitchell, among others—employ rhetoric to perform and challenge the marginalizing language surrounding groups that often remain overlooked in public and political spheres.

This groundbreaking study serves as a much-needed catalyst for a long overdue dialogue between scholars in the fields of rhetorical and performance studies. It offers invaluable insights for academic researchers and graduate students alike, spanning the domains of rhetorical studies, performance studies, theater studies, and critical discourse analysis. By unraveling the complex interplay between language, power, and the theatrical stage, Language and Power on the Rhetorical Stage contributes to our understanding of the profound impact of language on societal narratives and the urgent need for inclusive and equitable representation.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367680428