Definition
Pathos refers to the quality in art, literature, or speech that evokes a feeling of pity, sympathy, or sorrow in the audience or reader. It is one of the three modes of persuasion in rhetoric identified by Aristotle, alongside ethos (credibility) and logos (logical argument), and is used to appeal to the audience’s emotions to influence their perception or persuade them.
Etymology and Origin
The term pathos comes from the Greek word pathos, meaning “suffering” or “experience”. The concept of pathos in classical rhetoric has its origins in ancient Greek literature and philosophy, where it was recognized as a powerful tool for persuasion by affecting the emotions of the audience. This emotional appeal has been a key element in rhetoric, drama, and literature throughout history, serving as a means to connect with the audience on a deep emotional level.
