A Note On Rhetoric From Lindemann

Lindemann asserts that language is way in which humans are able to communicate and identify themselves with other individuals (53). While rhetoric may be a necessary skill, should there be more value place on verbal rhetoric or written rhetoric? At one point in history, there was more weight placed on the spoken word; then the focus switched to written. Which is more important, written or verbal, or should one possess the skill to successfully master both? The ability to express one's self successfully, whether it be verbally or written form, are they a choice. I think not. There are some students who are more comfortable writing their ideas than they are speaking, and there are those student who excel in public speaking. However, ultimately, I do require that my students are capable of expressing complex thoughts in the form of writing as well as speaking.