Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Practice Exam

Who or what is referred to as the "speaker" in a rhetorical context?

1. The audience responding to the text

2. The text created by a writer or artist

3. The individual or group that creates a text

4. The subject matter addressed in the text

The correct answer is: The individual or group that creates a text

In a rhetorical context, the "speaker" refers to the individual or group that creates a text. This encompasses anyone who communicates a message, whether through written, spoken, or visual mediums. The speaker is essential in rhetoric as they convey ideas, emotions, and arguments to an audience. Understanding the speaker’s perspective, background, and intentions can significantly influence the interpretation of the message. The speaker's choices in language, tone, and style all contribute to how effectively the message is received and understood by the audience. In rhetorical analysis, identifying the speaker helps to frame the context in which the text exists and how it engages with its audience.