This Episode presents the fundamental building block of classical rhetorics in persuasive writing. Master persuasive writing in your personal statement to convince the reader that you are worthy of another hour of their time for an interview and progress your application further. Outcomes of future interviews matter, but first, you have to get the opportunity for the interview.

Introduction to classical rhetoric

One day, a person will go to an interview to get that university place, or job opportunity. If you are 13 years old, then in a few years time university interview. The outcome from that interview may make a big difference to the path ahead. Classical rhetoric will help you to engage with your audience and convince them that yourself, your individuality is the greatest strength that no-one else will have and fits with their requirements.

Rhetoric is the study of effective speaking and writing. I will use ChatGPT to explain further. Artificial Intelligence will raise our knowledge to the 2021 knowledge level. I will introduce the three appeals and the five canons.

What are classical rhetorics?

Derek asked, “What are the classical rhetorics?”

AI responded, “The classical rhetorics refer to the principles and techniques of persuasive communication that were developed by ancient Greek and Roman philosophers and orators. These principles were later codified by classical rhetoricians, such as Aristotle, Cicero, and Quintilian, and have had a profound influence on Western education and thought.

The three main classical rhetorics are:

1. Ethos: Ethos is the appeal to the credibility and character of the speaker. A speaker who is perceived as knowledgeable, trustworthy, and honest is more likely to be persuasive. Ethos is often established through a speaker’s credentials, reputation, or personal qualities. (Use of reputation to convince)
2. Pathos: Pathos is the appeal to the emotions of the audience. A speaker who can evoke feelings such as fear, anger, or empathy can often persuade their audience to take action or adopt a particular point of view. (Appeal to one’s ethics)
3. Logos: Logos is the appeal to reason and logic. A speaker who presents a well-reasoned argument, supported by evidence and examples, is more likely to persuade their audience. (Appeal to one’s logics)

These three classical rhetorics are often used together to create a persuasive message that appeals to both the emotions and the intellect of the audience.”

Great, now we know what the three main appeals are, we will move to the five canons or principles to apply.

Derek asked, “What are the canons in classical rhetoric?”

AI answered, “The canons of rhetoric refer to the five essential components of persuasive communication that were first developed by ancient Greek and Roman rhetoricians, and later refined during the Renaissance. The five canons are:

1. Invention: Invention refers to the process of coming up with persuasive arguments and ideas. This involves researching and gathering evidence, generating new ideas, and identifying the best arguments to support a particular point of view.
2. Arrangement: Arrangement refers to the process of organising persuasive arguments and ideas in a logical and effective manner. This involves structuring the message in an easy way for the audience to follow and understand and builds a persuasive case.
3. Style: Style refers to the way in which persuasive arguments and ideas are presented to the audience. This involves the use of language, tone, and other stylistic elements to make the message more engaging and memorable.
4. Memory: Memory refers to the techniques used to help the speaker remember their message and deliver it effectively. This can involve the use of memorization techniques, notes, and other aids to help the speaker recall their arguments and ideas.
5. Delivery: Delivery refers to the way in which the message is presented to the audience, including the speaker’s voice, posture, gestures, and other nonverbal cues. Effective delivery is essential for engaging the audience and making a persuasive impact.

Taken together, the canons of rhetoric provide a framework for creating and delivering effective persuasive messages that can influence and persuade an audience. By understanding and applying these canons, communicators can create more effective and impactful messages that achieve their desired goals.”

How to apply the appeals with the canons?

The principles will help you to convince the audience. The invention and the arrangement are the beginning of a process to get right first. Imagine you are a chef, the invention is brainstorming of ideas that support your case, like collecting the ingredients. The arrangement is the structure, like following the recipes. Soups are simple. One would fry the base, then add water and everything else. The soup will be good if the right ingredients are fresh, so your ideas have to be innovative and unique. Soup is only good for a starter. No-one has soup for starters, mains and desserts. And no-one compliments the chef on their soup. “Well done, you have a great soup maker!” said no-one ever. You will need a main course and a dessert to satisfy the audience. The recipes become more complex.

In summary

This episode introduced the basics of classical rhetorics, which is a method to establish a communication channel with the audience. The aim is to ensure you can delivery your ideas effectively.