Which element of the rhetorical situation refers to the need that motivates public speaking?

The element of the rhetorical situation that refers to the need that motivates public speaking is exigence. Exigence is the catalyst for communication; it represents the issue or situation that prompts a speaker to deliver a message. This element highlights the reason behind the speech or presentation, illustrating the urgency or necessity that drives the speaker to address the audience. When a speaker identifies and articulates the exigence, they can effectively engage their audience by presenting a relevant and compelling argument or narrative that resonates with the shared context.

Understanding exigence is crucial, as it influences the choice of topic, the structure of the speech, and the strategies used in persuasion. Emphasizing the importance of the need or problem at hand helps to rally the audience’s attention and encourages them to respond to the message being conveyed.