To provide a view of the history of western rhetoric, this volume presents original articles by a number of world-renowned scholars representing different countries and varying viewpoints. In discussing the status of the historical perspectives on rhetoric, these international scholars also present a tribute to James J. Murphy, whose scholarship and service did much to shape the field. The book will introduce new insights into western European rhetoric and its connections with English rhetoric.

"Leff and Bennett provide an excellent introduction to the volume....each (essay) joins a rhetorical conversation with subsequent readers of those treatises that will move them toward an understanding of the art of rhetoric. Each renders problematic attempts at definitive rhetorical history. And each demonstrates just how pedagogical the history of rhetoric can be....recommended for all students of rhetoric."—Quarterly Journal of Speech"The high quality of the historical scholarship that the volume represents provides a solid tribute to Murphy's influence and a strong indicator that his goal of opening Medieval and Renaissance rhetoric to detailed historical study is being met in current scholarship."—Technical Communication Quarterly