Lessing's theory of polemic

This investigation seeks to prove that Gotthold Ephraim Lessing's works reveal a systematic view of polemic through an examination of Lessing's own statements on polemics, his use of polemical devices, and the complex way in which these factors interact with his theological positions. In order to discuss the philosophical and epistemological basis for Lessing's views, I analyze a number of texts which demonstrate and examine the methodological and philosophical dimensions of argument. This historical framework provides a theoretical model for an analysis of Lessing's position. Because Gorgias's Encomium of Helen and Plato's Gorgias present two opposition positions on rhetoric, these works provide a focus for my discussion of the conflict between rhetoric and philosophy evident in Lessing's formulation of his views on polemic.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Germanic Languages and Literatures

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Moore, Evelyn Knopp

Contributors dc:contributor

• McGlathery, James M.

• Literature, Germanic
• Theology

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1990 Moore, Evelyn Knopp

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI9021730
(UMI)AAI9021730

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/21500