V. William (Bill) Balthrop

Professor

Area of Study: Rhetorical Studies

Email: vwb@email.unc.edu
Office: 206 Bingham Hall
Office Hours: Tuesdays 1:30 – 2:30PM & By AppointmentCurriculum Vitae

Biography

B.A., Wichita State University

M.A. and Ph.D., University of Kansas

Dr. Balthrop’s professional interests focus on the interactions between rhetoric, argument and cultural practice. He is a former President of the National Communication Association and former President of the American Forensic Association.

 Research Interests

I am currently working broadly at the intersection of of rhetorical and cultural practices.  Along with Carole Blair and Neil Michel, I am working on an analysis of the rhetorical functions performed by the American memorials and monuments constructed in Europe following World War I and World War II.  This work examines both the commemoration of American servicemen, who died during the wars, but also considers the function of these memorials and monuments in public diplomacy, reminding Europeans of the sacrifices made as well as the bonds existing between them and the United States.  Additionally, I am examining the discourse of contemporary Southern Heritage groups and the continued construction of “Southern identity.”