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Cover of A Discourse Being Introductory to his Course of Lectures on Elocution and the English Language (1759)

A Discourse Being Introductory to his Course of Lectures on Elocution and the English Language (1759)

Written by Thomas Sheridan

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Elocution

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About this book

"A Discourse Being Introductory to his Course of Lectures on Elocution and the English Language" by Thomas Sheridan is a scholarly address delivered in the mid-18th century, specifically in 1759. The book serves as a foundational piece in the study of elocution, which focuses on the art of effective speaking and presentation in the English language. It reflects the intellectual currents of the time, aiming to refine public speaking skills as crucial to the development of English and the promotion of eloquence in formal settings. In this discourse, Sheridan critiques the neglect of elocution and proposes a systematic approach to studying the English language that aligns with classical rhetorical traditions. He emphasizes the importance of spoken language over written, arguing that effective communication through speech is essential for moral and societal progress. The book outlines a vision for establishing formal education in elocution, proposing that mastering the spoken word can elevate both individual and national dignity. Sheridan's passionate advocacy underscores his belief that nurturing oratory skills will lead to personal refinement and enhance public discourse, positioning eloquence as vital for thriving democratic society.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in A Discourse Being Introductory to his Course of Lectures on Elocution and the English Language (1759), written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 4 hours
  • advanced
  • scholarly
  • didactic
  • persuasive

Thomas Sheridan's 1759 'A Discourse Being Introductory to his Course of Lectures on Elocution and the English Language' is a pivotal 18th-century address advocating for the systematic study and practice of elocution. Sheridan critiques the prevalent neglect of effective public speaking, arguing that a decline in oratorical skills impedes both individual refinement and national progress. He proposes a structured educational approach to mastering spoken English, drawing parallels with classical rhetorical traditions. The discourse champions the importance of oral communication over written, asserting that eloquence is fundamental for moral development, societal advancement, and the elevation of national dignity. Ultimately, it serves as a passionate call to reform English language education by integrating elocution as a core discipline.

“The neglect of elocution is a national disgrace, a bar to true eloquence, and a detriment to public discourse.”

Key themes

The Importance of Elocution and Oratory
This is the central theme, around which all other arguments revolve. Sheridan meticulously outlines why effective speaking is not merely an aesthetic pursuit but a fundamental skill for clear communication, persuasive argument, and the very functioning of public life. He argues that proper elocution enhances understanding, conveys emotion, and fosters conviction, making it indispensable for any educated individual or thriving society.
The Neglect of Spoken Language
Sheridan's discourse is largely driven by his lament over the perceived decline and lack of systematic instruction in spoken English. He identifies this neglect as a significant cultural and educational failing, arguing that it leads to miscommunication, a weakening of public discourse, and a general intellectual laziness. This theme serves as the problem statement that his lectures are designed to address.
Systematic Language Education and Classical Rhetoric
A core aspect of Sheridan's discourse is his proposal for a structured, systematic approach to teaching elocution, departing from haphazard or intuitive methods. He draws heavily on classical rhetorical traditions (e.g., Quintilian) to establish a rigorous curriculum for pronunciation, delivery, and persuasive speaking, advocating for formal instruction as the only way to genuinely cultivate these skills.

Worth discussing

How does Sheridan's critique of elocution's neglect resonate with contemporary communication challenges?

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