What is the best description of the message in public speaking?

The message in public speaking is best described as "the speech itself." This encompasses the content and ideas the speaker presents to the audience. It includes the central theme, arguments, and information that the speaker has crafted to convey a specific viewpoint or to inform, persuade, or entertain the audience. The clarity and structure of the speech are crucial for ensuring that the audience understands the intended message.

In this context, the other choices do not capture the essence of what the message in public speaking entails. For example, while audience response is important for gauging the effectiveness of the speech, it reflects how the message was perceived rather than what the message actually is. The speaker's delivery is integral to communicating the message but focuses on the performance aspect rather than the content itself. Lastly, the overall context encompasses the setting and circumstances surrounding the speech, which influences how the message is received but does not define the message itself.

By understanding that the message is fundamentally the speech itself, one can appreciate the importance of crafting a clear, compelling, and well-structured argument for effective public speaking.