Elizabeth Arden Rhetorical Analysis Essay

The Use of Rhetorical Analysis in Skippy and Elizabeth Arden Ads

As a consumer, one is regularly subjected to advertisements. From billboards, to signs in stores, to the very apps on one’s phone, ads are everywhere to be seen. Whether or not one is aware, advertisements are an ever present influence on one’s decision making. Ads appeal to virtually everyone, whether it be through feelings or credibility. The purpose of this essay is to inform readers of how ads play into viewers trust and emotions, as well as to reveal the relatively stationary methods of doing so.

An article in The Atlantic titled “Thinking vs. Feeling: The Psychology of Advertising” claims that there are two approaches to advertising-- rational and emotional (Thompson n.p.). The idea behind rationality in an

The Elizabeth Arden ad features an attractive, blond woman (Elizabeth Arden n.p.). The ad’s claim that their product will help prevent aging is enforced by the youthful appearance of the woman in the ad; furthermore, the ad proclaims in bold “Elizabeth Arden New York” (Elizabeth Arden n.p.). Many consumers relate New York city to prosperity and success, and this idea is cemented in viewer’s minds with the tall buildings centered behind the woman (Elizabeth Arden n.p.). Lastly, the overall beauty of the woman shown in the ad suggests that Elizabeth Arden products will indeed promote the beauty of consumers. The Elizabeth Arden advertisement is not alone in it’s appeal to ethos, however, the Skippy ad also puts forth great effort into creating believable content. The ad itself showcases a young boy grinning from ear to ear, as he holds toast covered with peanut butter in heart-shaped swirls (Skippy n.p.). The placement of the child in the ad as well as his overall innocence and amiability will generate credibility in viewer’s