Join John Hale, a professor of archaeology and lecturer on the art of public speaking, as he reveals lessons from history's greatest orators. He uncovers how Demosthenes mastered physical presence, while Patrick Henry's empathetic body language galvanized audiences. Discover Will Rogers' use of humor and Abraham Lincoln's art of brevity and structure. Hale emphasizes the importance of engaging storytelling and concise messaging, highlighting that effective public speaking has roots in historical practices that remain relevant today.
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Grandmother's Influence
John Hale traces his public speaking interest to his grandmother's storytelling.
She fostered an oral tradition, encouraging him and his siblings to overcome self-consciousness.
insights INSIGHT
Decline of Rhetoric
Public speaking emphasis has declined, possibly due to the negative connotation of "rhetoric."
True rhetoric is the skillful use of language to advocate any cause.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Learn from the Greats
Study historical orators like Demosthenes to improve your public speaking.
Demosthenes overcame physical limitations through dedicated practice.
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The Art of Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie is a timeless classic that provides valuable techniques and strategies for effective public speaking. The book covers various aspects such as building confidence, organizing a speech, engaging with the audience, and handling nerves. Carnegie stresses the importance of understanding the audience, rigorous practice, and self-confidence. The book offers practical advice, real-world examples, and exercises to help readers improve their communication skills and become more persuasive and influential speakers. It emphasizes the power of language, the need to connect with the audience, and the importance of authenticity and sincerity in communication.
Despite the fact that public speaking remains an important and relevant skill in our modern age -- you never know when you'll need to give a toast at a wedding, pitch an idea at work, or champion a proposal at a city council meeting -- most of us get very little instruction these days in how to do it effectively.
Fortunately, my guest says, we can look to the great orators of the past to get the public speaking education we never received. His name is John Hale, and he's professor of archeology as well the lecturer of The Great Courses course Art of Public Speaking: Lessons from the Greatest Speeches in History. Today on the show, John shares what we can learn about the physicality of public speaking from Demontheses of Athens, the importance of empathetic body language from Patrick Henry, the effective use of humor from Will Rogers, the power of three from the apostle Paul, and the potency of brevity and well-executed organization from Abraham Lincoln.
The Art of Manliness 