CONTENTS. Criticism. Genius. Pleasures of Tasté. Sublim- Beauty and other Pleasures of Taste Origin and Progress of Language Rise and Progress of Language and of Writing Structure of Language. English Tongue. Style. Perspicuity and Precision Personification and Apostrophe Comparison, Antithesis, Interrogation, Exclam- 117 Style. Simple, Affected, Vehement. Directions Critical Examination of Mr. Addison's Style in Roman Eloquence. Cicero. Modern Eloquence 147 Eloquence of Popular Assemblies Conduct of a Discourse in all its Parts. Introduc tion, Division, Narration, and Explication A PROPER acquaintance with the circle of liberal arts is requisite to the study of Rhetoric and Belles Lettres. To extend the knowledge of them must be the first care of those, who wish, either to write with reputation, or so to express themselves in public, as to command attention. Among the ancients it was an essential principle, that the orator ought to be conversant in every department of learning. No art indeed can be contrived which can stamp merit on a composition, rich or splendid in expression, but barren or erroneous in sentiment. Oratory, it is true, has often been disgraced by attempts to establish a false criterion of its value. Writers have endeavoured to supply want of matter by graces of composition; and courted the temporary applause of the ignorant instead of the lasting approbation of the discerning. But such imposture must be short and transitory. The body and substance of any valuable composition must be formed of knowledge and science. Rhetoric completes the structure,and adds the polish; but firm and solid bodies only are able to receive it. Among the learned it has long been a contested, and remains still an undecided question, whether nature or art contribute most toward excellence in writing and discourse. Various may be the opinions with respect to the manner, in which art can most effectually furnish aid for such a purpose; and it were presumption to assert,that rhetorical rules,how just soever, are sufficient to form an orator. Private application and study, supposing natural genius to be favourable, are certainly superior to any system of public instruction. But, though rules and instructions cannot effect every thing which is requisite, they may be of considerable use. If they cannot inspire genius, they can give it direction and assistance. If |
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