Chapter 1

Introducing Public Speaking

What is public speaking? Public speaking features communication between a

speaker and his or her audience

• Public speaking is audience centered.

• Good speakers:– Consider

audience's interest and needs

– Adapt to the occasion

Why study public speaking?

Public speaking: A great tradition

Public speaking: A great tradition• In 5th century B.C.E. Greece, speaking at

assembly gave rise to the first formal studies of rhetoric, the craft of public speaking.

• In 1st century B.C.E. Rome, vigorous debate took place in the Senate.– Cicero was a Senator and famous orator

whose writings on rhetoric remain important.– Quintilian emphasized the notion of the ethical

orator—a good person speaking well.

Public speaking: A great tradition• Historically, public speaking was studied

across the globe.

Public speaking: A great tradition

The tradition of public speaking flourished in

American history.

• The Great Awakening of the 1730s-1740s was an oratorical religious revival.

• There were many key speaking opportunities in revolutionary America.

• The antislavery movement was one of great oratory.

• The women's suffrage movement• Public address flourished in the 20th century.

Public speaking: A great tradition

Public speaking: A dynamic discipline

Introduction to public speaking: Wrap Up

• Effective public speaking can inspire, persuade, educate, and entertain.

• Because of this public speaking is a required course at many colleges.

• Despite this, many employers report a lack of public speaking skills among job candidates.

• You can learn to overcome speech anxiety and master public speaking just like you would learn to read, ride a bicycle, develop or another skill.