Aristotelian Argument Classic Argument Format

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Aristotelian ArgumentClassic Argument Format

• confrontational style aims to break down
  opponents opinions assumes audience is on
  the other side of the argument
• a five (or sometimes six) part series
• malleable form leaves room for
  exclusion/inclusion of various established
  concepts

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Aristotelian Argument

• Introduction (includes two parts)1. Exordium
• The basic beginning of the essay which grabs
  the attention of the audience and shows your
  good-will intentions (Ethos). Some authors use
  a quotation from another source or construct a
  metaphoric analogy of the problem at hand.
• 2. Narration

3
Aristotelian Argument

• Introduction (includes two parts)1. Exordium
• 2. Narration An overview of the history of the
  problem, showing how the situation developed
  over time. Thesis declarative statement which
  explains your observations of the problem
  (Logos). Logically, this is considered the
  claim you are arguing. Division of Proofs
  brief outline of your material at least three
  major discussion points presented in the Body.

4
Aristotelian Argument

• Body (includes two parts)1. Confirmation of
  your case by presenting evidence or claims
• 2. Concession/Refutation of audiences
  opposing views

5
Aristotelian Argument

• Body (includes two parts)1. Confirmation of
  your case by presenting evidence or claims
  (includes two or more of the following)
• deductive logical reasoning facts and
  statistics reasons testimony of
  experts opinions supported by facts
  reports analogy

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Aristotelian Argument

• Body (includes two parts)1. Confirmation of
  your case by presenting evidence or claims
• 2. Concession/Refutation of audiences opposing
  views. Anticipating opposing commentary allows a
  good writer to respond to the various points
  that could be proposed by the opposition.  
  provide possible counterargument of your
  opponent, then use a rebuttal to demonstrate the
  invalidity of your opponents views point
  out any logical flaws of your opponent

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Aristotelian Argument

• Conclusion (includes one or more of following)1.
  Summary of argument reinforce views and clarify
  any misunderstandings. However, do not simply
  repeat established information for the sake of
  making the expected word count. If a point needs
  re-emphasis, use different phrases and wording.
  Be prepared to re-explain the point again to
  show how and why it is worthy of
  special notice.2. Peroration final appeal for
  support (Pathos). 3. Provide a solution.

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Aristotelian Argument Outline

• Introduction
• Exordium grab attention
• Narration provides overview
• Body
• Confirmation present evidence and claims
• Concession / Refutation offer rebuttal
• Conclusion
• Summary reinforce views
• Peroration final appeal
• Solution offer plausible resolution