Using rhetorical triangles has helped perfect the art of persuasion for over 2,000 years. Its three-part structure is a simple and effective communication tool that is easy to learn. If you are preparing a speech, essay, written proposal or presentation, you might benefit from consulting this age-old method. In this article, we explain all the components of a rhetorical triangle and offer three examples for reference.
What is a Rhetorical Triangle?
A rhetorical triangle is a device for crafting oral or written language that is both credible and affecting. Rhetoric is persuasive language, and there are many theories, devices and tools within rhetoric that people use to make their words more impactful. Developed by the Greek philosopher Aristotle, the rhetorical triangle is a method of organizing a persuasive argument using three elements of rhetoric.
Parts of the rhetorical triangle
Writers and speakers can use an equilateral triangle to visually map out and organize the flow of ideas within their persuasive argument. A rhetorical triangle consists of both the three points of the triangle and the three sides of the triangle. Here are the six most important components of this concept:
Points of the triangle
The three points of the triangle represent the rhetorical appeals Aristotle considered most crucial to persuasion and debate. Those three appeals and what they represent are:
Ethos
To appeal to ethos is to show the credibility of the speaker or writer. Doing this establishes the presenter or author as an authority on the subject they are speaking about. It explains why the audience or reader should trust the information and opinions given by that person.
Pathos
Using pathos is to appeal to the emotions of the audience. This angle is arguably the most effective and most immediate rhetorical appeal within the triangle. Using it establishes common ground and connection between the audience and the speaker.
Logos
To appeal to logos is to present the logic and reasoning behind a claim. This portion includes facts and evidence that support the point the presenter or author conveys. It substantiates the impact of the effects of appealing to ethos and pathos.
Three examples of rhetorical triangles
As long as you appeal to ethos, logos and pathos, your persuasive argument can be written in any order you think is best. Here are three examples of persuasive arguments written in various formats:
Example 1: Using a rhetorical triangle leading with ethos
Here is an example of a persuasive argument that leads with the credibility of the speaker:
“As a top-ranked cardiologist and heart surgeon, I recommend that all adults get adequate nightly sleep and engage in a light exercise routine as a baseline for heart health. On average, adults need between six and eight hours of sleep per night and 150 minutes of light or moderate exercise per week. This is about 35 minutes every other day. Call up a friend or loved one to take a brisk walk in a park. Making a habit of it can help both of you improve your overall heart health.”
Example 2: Using a rhetorical triangle leading with pathos
Here is an example of a persuasive argument that opens by appealing to the emotions of the reader:
“Imagine the smiles on the faces of your children if you were to surprise them by bringing home a dog. They would be filled with excitement as they giggle and rub the scruff behind his ears — and while they try to decide what to name him, it’s doubtful anyone would ask for his pedigree or paperwork. We brought our dog Max home from a shelter six years ago, so I know first-hand how important animal adoption is. There are approximately 6.5 million dogs and cats in need of adoption across the country. Consider opening up your home to one of them today.”
Example 3: Using a rhetorical triangle leading with logos
Here is an example of a persuasive argument that opens with information that appeals to the audience’s sense of logic and reasoning:
“Did you know that most major health insurance companies offer discounts or reimbursements for gym memberships? They are called wellness reimbursements. I have been going to the gym three times a week for the last two years, and I haven’t paid a dime. Joining the gym helped me to get fit and feel good, and it even helped me find some health-conscious workout buddies. Call your insurance provider and see what type of wellness reimbursements you have and let someone else pay for you to get fit.”
So, as you go out there, communicate with people and make your presentations, keep in mind the power of Ethos, Pathos and Logos to make an impact on your audience.