Rhetorical triangle is a tool used to understand how writers and speakers persuade an audience. In AP English, students learn that the rhetorical triangle includes three key elements: ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic).
These three appeals work together to strengthen an argument. Writers use the rhetorical triangle to build trust, connect emotionally, and present clear reasoning. Analysing how each element is used helps students understand the effectiveness of a text’s persuasion.
Example of rhetorical triangle in an AP English text
In 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' by Martin Luther King Jr., all parts of the rhetorical triangle are present:
Ethos: King refers to his role as a religious and civil rights leader.
Pathos: He describes the emotional pain of racism.
Logos: He explains logically why nonviolent protest is necessary.
This balance of appeals makes his argument powerful and persuasive.
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