Classical Rhetoric Gives You An Edge:
Chatbot reliance is slowly making most people dumber.
But Rostra graduates master the Principles That Built Empires, which make you ever sharper:
- Think on Your Feet: Master impromptu speaking using frameworks devised by ancient masters.
- Win Serious Arguments: Classical debate techniques train the reasoning faculty for persuasion in action.
- Command Authority: Channel the energy, drama, and force of character drawn from great examples.
When Cicero spoke, Rome listened. When you speak, will they remember?
Our students grasp what Aristotle, Caesar, and Cicero knew over 2,000 years ago:
That true power lies in personally embodying of the principles of eloquence—something which no technology can replace:
- The Rhetorical Lens: Internalize a system of analysis for seeing the means of persuasion in any situation.
- Emotional Control: Prepare yourself to perform calmly and confidently, with no notice, under pressure, under attack.
- Intuiting Human Psychology: Master not just logic, but also appeals to emotion, character, and identity.
But there's more...
Classical Rhetoric is the ancient world's time-tested tool for personal development as a public man. In its highest forms, the discipline of Rhetoric is an invitation to an elevated version of yourself. This journey involves self-mastery, a new set of relationships with both the living and the dead, and the call to build flourishing societies and institutions. We believe in reviving this highest form of Rhetoric—the quintessential public art—for the modern world.
Essential Program Details:
- 6-week virtual intensive program.
- 1 required session each week, lasting 90 minutes.
- Multiple bonus 60-minute sessions on impromptus, Great Historical Speeches, and more
- Open to all speaking experience levels.
- Maximum 16 participants (apply soon!)
- First Session: Monday, July 7th (8:30-10pm EST)
- Registration closes: June 30th at midnight
- Competition winner gets $1000 Scholarship to Cost of Glory program of his choice (e.g. Greece, Rome, US retreats)
Program Structure:
You will be part of an intensive journey in classical rhetoric and debate:
- Introductory Video Course (~60 minutes): Learn the basics.
- Structured Debate Practice: Sharpen your arguments through live intellectual exchange.
- Speech Analysis Sessions: Learn the techniques of history's greatest orators.
- Impromptu Speaking Lab: Develop a strong presence under pressure.
What You’ll Gain:
- Persuasion techniques from history's most effective orators.
- Strategic argument construction both at leisure and under pressure.
- Commanding presence in high-stakes situations.
- The camaraderie of like-minded peers.
- 3 months free access to The Rostra, ($270 value)
- Eligibility for long-term membership to The Rostra, our alumni training network
- A chance to win a $1000 scholarship to Cost of Glory programs
Expert Guidance Includes:
- Direct guidance from Alex Petkas (Ph.D. in Classics)
- Personalized, expert training and critique on speaking technique from a team of specialist coaches
- Methods and systems for argument development
- Targeted reading recommendations for improving mastery and performance
Your investment: $400
Who This Is For:
This program is for serious professionals who:
- Recognize that greatness requires intentional practice
- Want to expand their network of like minded peers
- Are ready to endure temporary discomfort for permanent transformation
- Want to channel the power of intellectual curiosity to practical ends
Who This Is Not For:
This is probably not the program for you if you:
- "Just don't get why Greece & Rome are that interesting??"
- Only care about quick hacks for basic presentation skills
- Are not serious about leveling up through confronting challenges
- Are easily offended by controversial ideas
Have questions about the program? We're here to help.
Send your inquiry to [email protected] and we will respond within 24 hours.
Rostra Testimonials
"Whoever devotes himself to true eloquence devotes himself to sound thinking."
—Cicero