The Folkness of Harry Shearer

This essay examines Harry Shearer’s impactful role as an epideictic rhetorician through his diverse media endeavors, notably his radio program Le Show. It introduces the concept of folkness—a term I use to describe the embedded cultural and political ideals and morals in Shearer’s work. The analysis highlights how Shearer masterfully uses satire and sound to critique and influence public discourse. Focusing on Le Show, the essay shows how Shearer not only entertains but also deeply engages listeners, encouraging them to reflect on and participate in societal issues. This exploration affirms Shearer’s significance in shaping American cultural rhetoric, positioning his contributions as essential to understanding contemporary and historical cultural dynamics.