Lincoln at cooper union: A rationale for neo‐classical criticism

Genre theory can serve as a corrective to certain defects in “neo‐Aristotelian” rhetorical criticism. Analysis of the theory and practice of neo‐Aristotelian critics reveals the lack of adequate standards for rhetorical evaluation. This deficiency is directly correlated with their neglect of the classical conception of oratorical genres. Using our critique of Lincoln's Cooper Union Address as an example, we argue that reference to oratorical genres can provide a more precise focus for criticism.