Panel Proposed by Sarah Partlow, University of Kansas
Abstract of a Paper to Be Presented at the 1999 Triennial Conference of the Kenneth Burke Society
Abstract of Proposal: This panel explores the possible contributions of Burkean theory to feminist rhetorical approaches. By combining both theoretical and critical applications of Burkean ideas, we hope to explore a variety of ways that Burke's theories can inform feminist rhetorical theory.
Chair: Donn W. Parson, University of Kansas
Respondent: Ekaterina Haskins, University of Iowa
Keri, Bodensteiner, University of Kansas,
"Transforming Sexism: Impiety and Perspective by Incongruity"
Sexism is an aspect of our culture that is so ingrained that it is persistently difficult to evaluate and change. A closer look at the structures of these beliefs, particularly with respect to Kenneth Burke's ideas of piety, impiety, and perspective by incongruity, can help oppressed groups to understand and overcome cultural obstacles. Many of the definitions and analyses of sexist rhetoric are strikingly similar to Burke's ideas of trained incapacity, piety and perspective by incongruity. This paper examines these relationships seeking common ground between Burke's theory and feminism in exploring possible resolutions of social inequalities including sexism, racism, homophobia, and classism.
Julie Davis, University of Kansas,
"The Citadel's Response to Harassment Allegations: Burke's Pentad as a Grounding of Ideograph"
Burke's pentad has been applied to a variety of rhetorical subjects covering a wide range of issues. However, this method also lays the foundation for other means of examining rhetorical practice. This paper examines Burke's masterpiece as a means of determining the appropriateness and grounding of ideographs and applies that perspective to the Citadel's response to sexual harassment allegations stemming from its recent change from an all male to a coeducational institution. This application introduces a new area of pentadic utility by applying Burkean method in a feminist context.
Sarah T. Partlow, University of Kansas,
"Between Persuasion and Invitation: Burkean Identification as an Inclusive Theory of Persuasion"
Feminists have criticized traditional notions of persuasion as being overly rationalistic and based on purely masculine modes of communication. In fact, some have suggested the appropriateness of developing a feminist approach to persuasive endeavors and renaming the process as invitation or empathy. This paper proposes that while feminist critiques of persuasion are in many senses valid, the development of feminist persuasive methods also serves to exclude traditional approaches. As an alternative, Kenneth Burke's notion of identification solves many of the problems of traditional approaches to persuasion, encompasses the goals of invitation, and creates a principled, inclusive theory of persuasion.
Valerie R. Renegar, University of Kansas,
"Logology: A Feminist Application of Burke's Method"
Feminist theologians have utilized a number of methods in their quest to evaluate and revision the predominantly masculine discourse about God and religion. These methods have, for the most part, come from theology. This paper will explore Kenneth Burke's notion of logology as a method for studying religious rhetoric. This method may prove to be a useful tool for feminists attempting to unmask and discover the influence of oppressive religious rhetoric.
Stacey Sowards, University of Kansas,
"Burke, The Paradox of Identification & Intersectionality of Race and Gender"
Burke discusses the process of identification as an integral part of persuasion. However, the process of seeking identification is process of both inclusion and exclusion. As rhetors construct messages for the purpose of promoting identification, some potential audience members who do not or cannot identify with the rhetor's message are excluded. This paper applies the paradox of identification to the exclusion of women of color in feminist rhetoric. Cultural differences have fragmented feminist rhetoricians because identification and consubstantiality between women of color are often low. Thus, intersectionality of gender and race uniquely challenges the identification process.
Return to the 1999 KB Conference Program
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