Pathetics is a technique used in the art of rhetoric. A synonym for this word is pathos. What did the term "pathetics" mean in antiquity? The meaning and origin of this word is the topic of the article.
Aristotle
Pathetics is a way that a speaker uses to influence his listeners in order to arouse in them any emotions and feelings. The term was first introduced by Aristotle. The ancient Greek philosopher believed that in order to influence the public, it is necessary to apply certain techniques. Among them are logos, ethos.
In order to understand what these concepts mean, one should read the main work of Aristotle. In the Poetics, the ancient sage gives a clear formulation to each of them. But if the words "logos" and "ethos" are not found in everyday modern speech, then pathetics is a word that is often used today. And, as a rule, in an ironic overtone.
In art
In literature there are such genres as ode, tragedy. They are united by characteristic features, such as emotionality, the desire to convey to the public the feelings and experiences of the hero. Pathetics is a method that actors use when portraying on stagecharacters in a drama. Especially if the piece is a tragedy.
In the eighteenth century, a German philosopher decided to contribute to the development of the art form of rhetoric. The name of this scientist was Friedrich Hegel. And it was he who singled out several types of pathos, namely: heroic, tragic, sentimental, satirical. Therefore, pathetic can be not only dramatic, but also lyrical. An actor reading a poem dedicated to the love of the Motherland also uses this rhetorical device. The singer who performs a song about unrequited love on stage also seeks to convey his feelings to the audience. Each of them aims to influence the audience, to make it experience certain emotions.
Who needs to learn how to apply the method described above? First of all, those who often speak in front of an audience. But, of course, a lecturer or teacher does not need to cause feelings and tears in front of students. The techniques of rhetorical art should first of all be mastered by actors or those who dream of a theatrical career. But such skills will not become superfluous for representatives of other professions.
Training
Courses in rhetoric and oratory - a curriculum that involves the acquisition of public speaking skills. They are often visited by people who, by virtue of their profession, have to talk a lot and for a long time. Such courses are sometimes useful for those who are far from theatrical art, but want to get rid of their innate tongue-tied tongue.
ToDo you still need to be able to speak in public? People with this skill are always in demand. It's easy for them to find a job. However, it is no secret that there are only a few people who know the basics of oratory. These are either graduates of theatrical universities, or the lucky ones whom nature has endowed with a rare talent. A person who knows how to influence the audience and is able to use pathetics in moderation has the opportunity to become a successful leader, journalist, TV presenter, politician.
It is worth remembering some historical figures who knew how to concentrate the attention of a thousandth audience. The content of their speeches was significantly inferior to the emotional component. They had more feeling than meaning. However, according to historical data, ordinary people listened to them, experienced a real storm of emotions. It's all about the extraordinary ability to use a pathetic technique - a way to influence the audience.
