Ethos, Pathos And Logos In The Trial Of Tom Robinson

Atticus Finch used a variety of argumentative techniques in his closing argument in the trial of Tom Robinson. These argumentative techniques include ethos, pathos, logos, anaphora, and rhetorical question. Atticus used these forms of writing to his advantage, and used them to the best of his ability. However, it was quite difficult to make an effective argument for his client, Tom Robinson, who was on trial for allegedly raping Mayella Ewell, a white female. Despite the fact his defense opened the eyes of some jury members, Tom was eventually found guilty and received a death sentence. Atticus’ closing argument uses a variety of persuasive, argumentative techniques. One form of writing he used is anaphora, which is repetition of a†¦show more content†¦Along with logos, pathos is also frequently used throughout Atticus’ closing argument. In the text, Atticus states, â€Å"And so a quiet, respectable, humble Negro who had the unmitigated temerity to ‘feel sorry’ for a white woman has had to put his word against two white people’s.† By saying this, Atticus is building up Tom’s likability, and is trying to conduct some sort of pity toward Tom from the jury members. Although some argumentative techniques are used in this speech more than others, they are not necessarily the most effective. Two forms of argumentative techniques are used most effectively within Atticus’ closing argument in the Tom Robinson trial. One technique used most effectively is anaphora. Atticus states, â€Å"...- that all Negroes lie, that all Negroes are basically immoral beings, that all Negroes are not to be trusted around our women†¦ You know the truth, and the truth is this: some Negroes lie, some Negroes are immoral, some Negro men are not to be trusted around women-black or white. But this is a truth that applies to the human race and to no particular race of men. There is not a person in this courtroom who has never told a lie, who has never done an immoral thing, and there is no man living who has never looked upon a woman without desire.† This quote uses anaphora whilst using terms repeatedly, such as â€Å"some Negro men† and â€Å"who has never.† This use of repetition stresses the fact that although white folkShow MoreRelatedEthos, Logos In Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And Atticus Finch972 Words   |  4 Pagesgiven issue from a preferred perspective. Speakers may utilize the following appeals to win an audience’s favor: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos refers to the speakers incorporation of the audience’s ethical responsibilities. A speaker also uses ethos to establish credibility. Logos is the speakers use of logic and reasoning by way of factual evidence. Lastly, a speaker may use pathos to engage the audience’s emotions. 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