Much of the study of rhetoric originates from the Golden Age of Classical Greece, which the Romans picked up, imported and appropriated for themselves. One of the central concepts in classical rhetoric involves something called the Three Modes of Persuasion: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. Aristotle teaches in his work “Rhetoric” that all persuasion is affected …
Rhetoric Part 3 The Three Modes of Persuasion: Ethos Read More »
The following is the second article in a series on teaching the art of rhetoric in the classroom. Before diving into particular appeals and fallacies, it will be helpful to establish a general understanding of what rhetoric is: its purpose and function. If we can get a clear picture of what rhetoric is supposed to …
The following is a first post in a new column by Joshua Leland on teaching rhetoric. Upcoming topics will be on the modes of persuasion, examples of fallacies, appropriate appeals and more, and we hope it is helpful for other teachers who like Josh are charged with teaching the subject of rhetoric. Unfortunately for my …
How the presuppositions underlying modern science cause us to claim a kind of knowing that is not warranted
Words like “fascinating” are often mere impressions of their original meaning and it’s up to classical educators to breathe life back into them
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight is one of my favorite poems, and every time I read it I love it even more. It is filled with some twists and surprises that I won’t spoil for you if you haven’t read it, but one of the reasons that I love this poem is the way …
A Poem for When the Right Thing Feels Insignificant Read More »
In his thought-provoking article, Individualism: The Root Error of Modernity, George Stanciu proposes that the foundational problem of Modernity lies in the false assumption that everything in the cosmos exists in-and-of-itself. He contrasts this belief with the Medieval assumption that things exist only in relationship. This seems to be the same idea that Tolkien explores …
Solids and Liquids: Metaphors for Truth and Justice Read More »
Several years ago God, in his infinite wisdom and mercy, saw fit to smite the radio in my car, so I don’t listen to the news very much anymore. I do occasionally tune in when driving our other vehicle (which has a working radio), but I find that I’ve lost the taste for it. I …
Is there a more perfect picture of the modern news than the horrific monster Rumor? Read More »
Or: Don’t let your students be fledglings forever
