What is Rhetoric?

Definition of Rhetoric

Rhetoric (n) - the art of speaking or writing effectively.

Content = WHAT

Rhetoric = HOW

Rhetoric is HOW we give the impressions we give. HOW we say what we say, do what we do, write what we write.

Rhetoric is all around us in conversation, in movies, in advertisements and books, in body language, and in art. We employ rhetoric whether we’re conscious of it or not. . .

The goal of persuasion is to change others’ point of view or to move others to take action.

. . .but becoming conscious of how rhetoric works can be transforming; this consciousness can alter our speaking, reading, and writing, making us more successful and able communicators and more discerning audiences.

Aristotle and The Art of Rhetoric:

Aristotle (384 - 322 BC: Greece) More than any other thinker, Aristotle

determined the orientation and content of Western intellectual history.

Author of systems of thought

we still use today—both in

philosophy and science.

Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle: Aristotle believed that to make convincing

arguments, writers needed to look at three elements: the speaker’s persona, the audience, and the subject matter.

Writers must take into account all three--they are connected and interdependent.

What is logos, ethos, and pathos?

Logos = Logic, Reason, Facts

Ethos = Ethics, Image, Credibility

Pathos = Emotions (Passion)

Logos, Ethos, Pathos

Using logos, ethos, and pathos will help you to master the art of persuasion.

• Through language, you will be able to change the point of view of others!

• Through language, you will be able to motivate others to take action!

Logos

Logos is an argument based on facts, evidence and reason.

Using logos means appealing to the readers’ sense of what is logical.

Logos Example

Eighty percent of the writers interviewed said they write at least four rough drafts before they publish a piece of writing.

EthosEthos is an argument based on character.

Using ethos means the writer or speaker appeals to the audience’s sense of ethical behavior. The writer or speaker presents him or herself to the audience as credible, trustworthy, honest and ethical.

Ethos Example

“I have been teaching writing for twenty years . . .”

Or

“I am an ethical expert, so believe what I say.”

Pathos

Pathos = argument based on feelings

Using pathos means appealing to readers’ emotions and feelings.

Pathos Example

She stood before the class preparing to present her speech. She regretted not rehearsing the night before. Her knees shook, her breath grew shallow, and colored spots danced before her eyes. She gripped the podium and hoped she would not pass out in front of her classmates.

Review

Logos = logic

Logos is an argument based on facts, evidence and reason.

Using logos means appealing to the readers’ sense of what is logical.

ReviewEthos = Ethics / Image

Ethos is an argument based on character.

The writer or speaker presents him or herself to the reader as credible, trustworthy, honest and ethical.

Review

Pathos = argument based on feelings

Using pathos means appealing to readers’ emotions and feelings.