Concept Excavation Description

Concept Excavation Assignment
This assignment offers an opportunity to explore an important rhetorical concept and build research skills. It also gives us an opportunity to play with linguistic origins. The task is to excavate an ancient rhetorical concept and construct a short paper that summarizes the concept’s meaning and usage.

Parts:
1) Locate a rhetorical concept/term/phrase from a text we read in class
2) Research the meaning(s) and usage of the text in ancient writings
3) Explore how the concept is employed in contemporary scholarship/teaching
4) Write an informative summary describing the ancient definition and usage of the rhetorical concept (500 word max). Also address how the term is presently employed in rhetorical scholarship (a few brief examples). Include a list of references used (does not count toward word count)
5) Post your excavation on the class website.
6) Respond to two other concept excavations within 48 hours of assignment deadline, reflecting on the most interesting aspect of the excavation and how the concept is situated in contemporary rhetorical theory

Criteria:
Writing mechanics (i.e., clarity and grace)
Significance of concept
Depth of research (e.g., sources consulted)
Thoughtful reactions for peer responses