Rhetoric Aristotle

Aristotle

rhetoric is defined as the ability to see what is possibly persuasive in every given case

Aristotle was an ancient Greek philosopher born in Stagira, Chalkidiki. Along with Plato, Aristotle is considered "The Father of Western Philosophy". In the very limited amount of knowledge on his life, it is known that his father had passed away when Aristotle was very young. He joined Plato's Academy in Athens, and following his depart at the age of 37, he went on and tutored Alexander The Great at the request of Philip II of Macedon. Aristotles writing's and teachings have continued to be a subject of academic studying/teaching, especially in his areas of science and rhetoric.

Aristotle's Role in Rhetoric

  • Aristotle has been credited often with creating the basics of the rhetorical system.

"The Rhetoric" Books

Written in 350 B.C.E, Aristotle created books of rhetoric called "The Rhetoric", breaking down multiple parts of rhetoric in a collection of 3 books. Book I is a general overview of rhetoric, including the purpose of rhetoric and a working definition. Book II includes two means of persuasion that an orator must rely on: Ethos, , and Pathos. These are to allow the author to make the audience feel a certain type of emotion to help get their claim across. Book III is about all 3 means of persuasion, Logos, Ethos , Pathos. Versions of Aristotle's series are available on paper copy, or digital translations.

The Purpose of Rhetoric

Aristotle defines the rhetorician as someone who is always able to see what is persuasive
Rhetoricians will not always be able to convince under all the circumstances

The Meaning of Rhetorical Purpose

The rhetorical purpose is the goal that the author is meaning to achieve in terms of persuading or influencing people. Some general categories of rhetorical purpose include persuasive, argumentative, informative, and aesthetic purposes.

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