CMN 538

Spring 2026

Part of Term 1
Jan 20-May 6
Seminar Rhetorical Theory
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Credit: 4 hours.

Study of special topics in the history of rhetorical theory.

May be repeated to a maximum of 16 hours.

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CRN Type Section Time Day Location Instructor Section Details
50680
Discussion/
Recitation
CF
2:00PM -4:50PM
R
Lincoln Hall
Finnegan, C
Part of Term:
1
Date Range:
01/20/26-05/06/26
Section Title:
Rhetoric and the Senses
Section Info:
Scholars in rhetorical studies are increasingly examining the roles that sight, sound, and other senses play in rhetorical history, theory, and criticism. These inquiries draw upon ancient and contemporary rhetorical theory and engage the insights of scholars across allied fields such as anthropology and history. In the seminar we will read, write about, and discuss rhetorical scholarship and related humanities research on rhetoric and the senses. As we explore rhetoric's sensorium, we will investigate broader relationships among the senses as well as ideas about sensation itself. Students will leave the course with a picture of key issues animating these vibrant areas of inquiry.
Restriction(s):
Restricted to Graduate - Urbana-Champaign.
52002
Lecture-Discussion
NO
2:00PM -4:50PM
W
Lincoln Hall
O'Gorman, N
Part of Term:
1
Date Range:
01/20/26-05/06/26
Section Title:
Comm & Democratic Theory
Section Info:
This graduate seminar will introduce students to the historical and cultural range of thinking about the relationship between communication and democracy. Organized around key readings, the seminar will explore fundamental questions like: What forms of communication bolster democracy? Which undermine it? What forms of debate, deliberation, and/or dialogue are necessary for the survival of democracies? How do anti-democratic ideological constructs around race and class depend upon or otherwise exploit democratic modes of communication? Since these questions are perennial, will read some texts that are very old and others that are relatively new. Throughout we will try to better understand the intimate, and often intricate, theoretical and practical connections between communication and democracy. In addition to regular readings and responses, students will be expected to write a seminar paper. As its focus is broadly relevant, this seminar is open to all communication graduate students in any area of study. Students outside the Department of Communication should ask permission of the instructor before enrolling.
Restriction(s):
Restricted to Graduate - Urbana-Champaign.
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