Throughout this first part of the semester, I have gained a great deal of knowledge concerning rhetoric. To begin with, we attempted to define and qualify what rhetoric is. This search for a definition caused me to challenge my preconceived thoughts about rhetoric. I had a general understanding coming into class, but our discussions showed me a new depth and complexity which I had never considered. In addition, I found it very helpful and interesting to examine the historical context of rhetorical tradition. We discussed the shift from aristocracy to democracy in ancient Greece, and how that created a kairos for Sophistic teaching. Coming into class, I had very little knowledge about the Sophists. Yet, through our reading of ancient manuscripts, along with Herrick’s commentary,  I learned that the Sophists taught persuasion and what they considered arete, virtue. Walking alongside this study, we learned about Plato’s and Aristotle’s views of rhetoric, comparing them to each other and to the Sophists. It was fascinating to see how they differed and were similar, along with how they reached their conclusions. We only scratched the surface, but definitely gained a working understanding of the subject. In the coming weeks I hope to deepen this understanding with additional knowledge. I am eager to see how the definition and application of rhetoric changes (or stays the same) throughout the coming centuries. Also, I look forward to discovering new intellectuals; for it is upon their shoulders that we achieve new heights.