Rhetorical terms
Rhetorical Devices & Terms what do you remember? In squads and in your notebooks/binders, refer to the following list of words and see what you remember (definitions and/or examples). Ethos/pathos/logos Allusion, anecdote, hyperbole, metaphor, parallelism, rhetorical questions, restatement, understatement
Definitions While some of these terms may be familiar, some will be brand new. Take additional notes as I highlight some of the newest rhetorical devices (and clarify familiar ones as well). Remember: these are the terms we will be using all semester (and the SAT, too), so now is the time to start building your vocab!
Asyndeton - definition Asyndeton is derived from a Greek word asyndeton which means unconnected. It is a stylistic device used in literature and poetry to intentionally eliminate conjunctions between the phrases and in the sentence, yet maintain the grammatical accuracy. This literary tool helps in reducing the indirect meaning of the phrase and presents it in a concise form. Or, when you leave out conjunction junction
Asyndeton - definition A. One type of asyndeton is used between words, phrases and a sentence. Are all thy conquests, glories, triumphs, spoils, Shrunk to this little measure? B. Second type is used between sentences or clauses. Without looking, without making a sound, without talking
Polysyndeton it s sibling Just as asyndeton doesn t include conjunctions, polysyndeton has many conjunctions. Ex: The weather is always crazy, and cold, and weird, and terrible in the winter. Effect? Also stressing items in a list.
Asyndeton/Ploysyndeton Polysyndeton and asyndeton are opposite to each other. Polysyndeton includes addition of multiple conjunctions such as in He eats and sleeps and drinks. On the other hand, asyndeton is the elimination or leaving out of conjunctions such as in He eats, sleeps, drinks. Both create a completely different effect. Polysyndeton slows down the rhythm of speech and makes it moderate whereas asyndeton speeds up the rhythm of the speech.
Emphasize a particular idea Asyndeton - function Speed up rhythm Focus/attract readers attention since it suggests that words, phrases and sentences are incomplete and the readers would have to do some work to deduce meanings.
Anaphora definition the deliberate repetition of the first part of the sentence in order to achieve an art has its roots in Biblical Psalms used to emphasize certain words or phrases
Anaphora function Adds prominence to ideas Add rhythm (more pleasurable to read, and easier to remember) Appeal to the emotions of the audience, in order to persuade, inspire, motivate, and encourage them. Example: Every day, every night, in every way, I am getting better and better.
Antithesis definition Antithesis, literal meaning opposite, is a rhetorical device in which two opposite ideas are put together in a sentence to achieve a contrasting effect. Antithesis emphasizes the idea of contrast by parallel structures of the contrasted phrases or clauses, i.e. the structures of phrases and clauses are similar in order to draw the attention of the listeners or readers.
Antithesis function Way to exaggerate or convey ideas in a different way When contrasting ideas are brought together, the idea is expressed more emphatically. Makes contrasts in order to examine pros and cons of a subject under discussion and helps to bring forth judgment on that particular subject. Example: Better to reign in Hell, than serve in Heav n..
What s the difference between repetition and restatement? Repetition repeats the same words Restatement repeats the same ideas, but using different words
How s that different from parallelism? Repetition a rhetorical device that involves the repetition of the same word, phrase or sentence. Parallelism is a literary device that juxtaposes two or more similar syntactic constructions, especially those expressing the same idea with slight modifications. Repetition refers to the repetition of words, phrases, or clauses. Parallelism refers to the repetition of the structure. Repetition focuses more on the meaning. Parallelism focuses more on the structure.
Loaded language vs. elevated language Loaded language = fighting words Highly emotionally charged words designed to elicit strong reactions Elevated language = formal, dignified words Brings dignity and solemnity to a piece (consider the language of religious texts like the Bible, or the language of epic heroes)
Euphemism A nicer way of putting something distasteful, sad, etc. Effect can be to soften the blow, stay tasteful/polite, etc.
Hyperbole/Understatement Hyperbole over exaggeration Understatement the direct opposite.
A quick check Using your notes, see if you can identify what rhetorical device is being used in the following examples.
What device? This is the villain among you who deceived you, who cheated you, who meant to betray you completely.
What device? Asyndeton! This is the villain among you who deceived you, who cheated you, who meant to betray you completely. Function?
What device?
What device? Anaphora! Function?
What device?
What device? Antithesis! Function?
Persuasive appeals
Brainstorm: Examples of ethos Consider: When would ethos be used? Why would you use this?
Ethos credibility Can be from authority figures Or those viewed with authority.
Stop and think! Who would be a credible source on What repairs your broken car needs? Nutrition plan for a heart patient? National security status report? What factors determined your selection?
What would the following people be experts on?
You re Right! Humanitarian work with the UN!
Ethos can be subjective Someone who may be credible to one group, may not be credible for others. This is especially true of politicians.
Pathos is about feeling
Now with pathos! Consider: When would pathos be used? Why would you use this? How does this differ from ethos?
Logos = logic Facts, evidence, reason
What are some examples of logos in the things we ve read so far? What type of evidence/argument uses logos? Can it be used with the previous 2 rhetorical appeals?
Memorize rhetorical functions Keep this sheet handy, and start memorizing these terms. We will use them all semester in analyzing arguments. This will also help you do well on the SAT in Spring.
Homework: rhetorical appeal poster Due tomorrow Create a one page poster for your assigned rhetorical device. Your poster must include: Name of device Simple definition Example Illustration of some kind