Introduction to Rhetoric & Persuasive Writing:

The goal of argumentative writing is to persuade your audience that your ideas are valid, or more valid than someone else’s. The Greek philosopher Aristotle divided the persuasive appeals into three categories – ethos, pathos, and logos. These appeals are prevalent in almost all arguments.

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Why is this important??

When taking college courses, students will need to become familiar with the term “rhetoric” – the art of speaking or writing effectively. According to Aristotle, rhetoric is ‘the ability, in each particular case, to see the available means of persuasion.’ He is describing ethos, logos, and pathos. An easy way to visualize this is what is called the rhetorical triangle. (See below)

Aristotle's Rhetorical Triangle

Read This: Introduction To Rhetoric and Argument

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While you watch the above video, think about how the speaker uses ethos, pathos, and logos. Jot down some notes as you watch.

Now read an analysis of the speech that looks for elements of ethos, pathos, and logos:

Read This: Bush 911 Analysis

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Complete This Assignment:

11/3/16 - Analyzing Reagan's Challenger Speech for Ethos, Pathos, and Logos