Voices From the Bottom: a Rhetorical Analysis of Critical Race Theory Narratives
Date of Graduation
Fall 2000
Degree
Master of Arts in Communication
Department
Communication
Committee Chair
John Fritch
Abstract
This thesis uses narrative criticism to examine the rhetorical power of the narratives of Critical Race Theory. Three narratives, written by one of the "originators" of the Critical Race Theory narrative, Derrick Bell, are analyzed. Critical Race Theory scholarhip is espoused by mostly minority legal scholars in an attempt to challenge the lack of ract-consciousness in prevailing legal orthodoxy and neutral approaches to legal scholarship. In recent years, the use of narrative has been particulary important in CRT. Racial minorities have used narratives to change the terms of the civil rights debate and bring their voice into legal scholarship. This analysis ultimately argues that the uniqueness of these narratives provides valuable opportunity to deal with racial prejudice and better society.
Subject Categories
Communication
Copyright
© Heather L Walters
Recommended Citation
Walters, Heather L., "Voices From the Bottom: a Rhetorical Analysis of Critical Race Theory Narratives" (2000). MSU Graduate Theses. 2408.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/2408
Dissertation/Thesis
