But scientific palaeohistorians should likewise heed humanists' concern with context, alertness to anachronism, and rhetorical skills.

His rhetorical skills stood out way before.

But when he did appear in the forum, his speeches and rhetorical skills were most admired.

Rhetorical skills were honed through the writing of essays, orations before the society, and participation in debates.

In other words, an orator might speak on any topic, with his success being measured purely on the brilliance of his rhetorical skills.