1 Introduction: The Case for Speechwriting.- 2 Speechmaking in the 21st Century.- 3 The Beginning of Speechwriting.- 4 Research and Theory on Speechwriting.- 5 The Rhetorical Canons of Speechwriting.- 6 Genres of Speechwriting.- 7 How Speeches are Written.- 8 Characterizing the Speaker.- 9 Writing for the Ear.- 10 Writing for the Eye: Pictures, Visions, and PowerPoint.- 11 The Ethics of Speechwriting.- 12 The Functions of Speechwriting in Contemporary Society.- 13 The General Steps in the Speechwriting Process.

This book provides students, researchers, and practitioners of speechwriting with a unique insight in the theory, history, and practice of speechwriting. The combination of theory and practice with case studies from the United States and Europe makes this volume the first of its kind. The book offers an overview of the existing research and theory, analysing how speeches are written in political and public life, and paying attention to three central subjects of contemporary speechwriting: convincing characterization of the speaker, writing for the ear, and appealing with words to the eye. Chapters address the ethics and the functions of speechwriting in contemporary society and also deliver general instructions for the speechwriting process. This book is recommended reading for professional speechwriters wishing to expand their knowledge of the rhetorical and theoretical underpinnings of speechwriting, and enables students and aspiring speechwriters to gain an understanding of speechwriting as a profession.Jens E. Kjeldsen is Professor of Rhetoric and Visual Communication at the University of Bergen, Norway. Amos Kiewe is Professor of Communication and Rhetorical Studies at Syracuse University, USA. Marie Lund is Associate Professor of Rhetoric at the Aarhus University, Denmark. Jette Barnholdt Hansen (1966-2017) was Associate Professor of Rhetoric at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.

“Speechwriters have hoped for a long time to see a book like this appear in print. Speechwriting in Theory and Practice's 13 chapters are grounded in a combination of academic perspectives on the evolution of rhetoric and persuasive speech, alongside a close study of how speechwriters and speakers collaborate, in the real world, to prepare remarks for delivery. … Speechwriting in Theory and Practicefully acknowledges this fascinating continuity in rhetorical practice over the centuries … .” (Neil Hrab, Vital Speeches of the day, vsotd.com, June 26, 2019)

“This book will be worth a great deal to working communication professionals who want to build a philosophical, historical and rhetorical foundation beneath their career. They may do so—painlessly and pleasurably—by reading Speechwriting in Theory and Practice.” (David Murray, Executive Director, Professional Speechwriters Association)“This book is the first comprehensive survey of speechwriting in both the United States and Europe. It engages the extant research and provides both theoretical knowledge and practical advice. Highly recommended for both academicians and those who write speeches for others.” (Martin J. Medhurst, Distinguished Professor of Rhetoric and Communication, Baylor University, USA) “This book is a compelling and original plea for the importance of the classical art of speechwriting –even in times of social media and tweets. It is a book of deep and useful insights into the dark art of writing speeches for others. A rich source of American and – very important – European scholarship.” (Jaap de Jong, Professor of Journalism and New Media, Leiden University, The Netherlands)  

Offers invaluable guidance to students, scholars and practitioners of speechwriting Builds on existing theories and research into rhetoric and speechwriting Combines examples of speechwriting from both Europe and the US