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Abstract
This project explores the connections between rhetoric, agency, and celebrity politics through analyzing the political rhetoric of U2s lead singer Bono. Bonos authority in global politics is a significant reason to analyze his relationship with agency, especially in a world increasingly influenced by a connection between entertainment and politics. Although not a traditional politician, Bono is granted political agency and rhetorical opportunity by world politicians. This thesis examines Bonos rhetoric to understand how he constructs agency appeals for his audiences of American citizens and policymakers through two case studies: Bonos 2006 keynote address at the National Prayer Breakfast and U2s DVD of their Vertigo Tour concerts. The analysis has implications for thinking about rhetoric as a primer for agency. Rhetoric prepares an audience to engage in social change in both intellectual and experiential waysin considering American activism in light of a global community and through formal expectations of political involvement.