Ch. 1 and 2 Rhetorical Terms Flashcards
rhetorical triangle (Aristotelian triangle)
diagram that illustrates the interrelationship among the speaker, audience, and subject in determining a text
concession
an acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument, a concession is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the validity of the opposing argument.
connotation
meanings or associations that readers have with a word beyond its dictionary definition, or denotation. Usually positive or negative, and can greatly affect the author’s tone.
context
the circumstances, atmosphere, attitudes, and events surrounding a text
ethos
Greek for “character.” Speakers appeal to ethos to demonstrate credibility on a given topic. Established both by who you are and what you say.
logos
Greek for “embodied thought.” Speakers appeal to logos, or reason, by offering clear, rational ideas and using specific details, examples, facts, and statistics.
occasion
the time and place a speech is given or a piece is written
pathos
Greek for “suffering” or “experience.” Speakers appeal to pathos to emotionally motivate their audience.
persona
Greek for “mask.” The face or character that a speaker shows to his or her audience.
polemic
Greek for “hostile.” An aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one’s opinion over others. Polemics generally do not concede that opposing opinions have merit.
propoganda
the spread of ideas and information to further a cause
refutation
a denial of the validity of an opposing argument. In order to sound reasonable, usually follow a concession.
rhetoric
the art of finding ways to persuade an audience
rhetorical appeals
techniques used to persuade an audience by emphasizing what they find most important or compelling
SOAPS
Elements that make up the rhetorical situation: mnemonic device that stands for Subject, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, and Speaker.
