Rhetoric, Nationalism, and the Call to War

This chapter examines the tumultuous life of Gabrielle D'Annunzio, who embraced war as a means of societal cleansing and renewal amid pre-World War I tensions. It explores his fervent nationalism, demagogic speeches, and the emotional manipulation of public sentiment to galvanize support for Italy's involvement in the war. The discussion highlights the dangers of rhetorical influence and the ethical implications of rallying mass emotions for political agendas.