First published in 1971, this book provides a historical account of the fortunes of Rhetoric. Beginning with a study of classical rhetorical theory and practice, it goes on to explore the impact of rhetoric on English literature and the renunciation of rhetoric from the late 17^th century. The book concludes with a survey of the ways in which rhetoric was revived and re-modelled in the 20^th century and its bearings on the practice and theory of literary criticism.
This book will be of interest to those studying English literature and literary theory.