For your fifth blog response, please respond to one of the following prompts:
- In his chapter “Apocalypse,” Greg Garrard writes that “the precise function of Carson’s apocalyptic rhetoric” in Silent Spring “is a matter of debate” (Ecocriticism 95). For your 5th blog response, enter this debate as a reader of Silent Spring. In what ways does Carson employ the trope of apocalypse? Do you agree with Buell that her book “offers little hope that catastrophe may be averted,” or, like Killingsworth and Palmer, do you argue that “‘the conflicting narratives of apocalyptic doom and millennial hope strive for dominance in Silent Spring‘” (95)? Use a close reading of Carson’s text to support your answer.
- In his chapter “Apocalypse,” Greg Garrard gives a brief rhetorical analysis of Paul Ehrlich‘s The Population Bomb on page 99. In your response, give a more detailed rhetorical analysis of the passage of Ehrich’s text you’ve been assigned for class. What is Ehrich’s main argument, and how does he use pathos, logos, and/or ethos to convince the reader of his argument? What other strategies does he use to appeal to his audience (the general public)? Do you agree with Garrard’s assessment, and why or why not?
- Write a rhetorical analysis of Rachel Carson‘s Silent Spring. What is Carson’s purpose in writing this book and what are her main arguments? What strategies does she use to appeal to her audience (the general public)? How does Carson use the rhetorical triangle (logos, pathos, and/or ethos) to convince the reader of her position? How/where does Carson anticipate and rebut counter-arguments?
- In his chapter, “Apocalypse,” Greg Garrard notes that the apocalypse trope has been a successful rhetorical strategy for the green movement, but also discusses some of the problems and risks associated with its use. In your response, make an argument regarding the use of apocalyptic rhetoric among environmentalists today. Do you think that it should be used freely, strategically, in limited amounts, or not used at all? Why? In your response, give specific examples of contemporary environmental apocalyptic rhetoric to support your answer.
- Find a contemporary newspaper or magazine article that illustrates how the apocalypse trope functions in relation to environmental issues today. In your response, explain the connection between the article and the readings, making sure to quote from each to showcase the connection. Besides giving a BRIEF summary of the article and thoroughly explaining the connection to the readings, be sure to also address the significance of the connection. You are also required to include a link to the article in your post.
Remember, your posts should follow these requirements and guidelines:
- Posts must be at least 300 words.
- Posts must include at least one quote from the text.
- Stay focused on answering the prompt question above. Avoid repeating the question and be as specific as possible in your answer.
- Your response should make an argument, not summarize the text. If some summary is asked for in the prompt you chose, keep that summary brief and concise.
- Use specific moments from the text(s) to support and illustrate your argument.
- Be sure to introduce, quote, cite, and comment on all quotes.
- Don’t forget to tag your posts! Before adding a new tag, check the “choose from the most used tabs” menu to make sure it is not already listed.
- Don’t forget your Works Cited!
Your blog response is due by class time on Monday, February 27.
Blog comments are due by class time on Wednesday, February 29.