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Allusions
Definition of Ethos
Ethos, along with logos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective speaking or writing). Ethos is an argument that appeals to... read full definition
Ethos, along with logos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective speaking or writing). Ethos is... read full definition
Ethos, along with logos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective... read full definition
Chapter Seven
Explanation and Analysis—Surviving Nickel Academy:
In Chapter Seven of The Nickel Boys, Elwood and Turner get into an argument over how to best address the systemic violence perpetuated at Nickel Academy. Whereas Elwood believes in active resistance and standing up for oneself, Turner believes the opposite, attempting to convince Elwood through the use of ethos:
“That’s true,” Turner said. “That doesn’t mean I can’t see how it works. Maybe I see things more clearly because of it.” He made a face as the soap powder gave him a kick. “The key to in here is the same as surviving out there—you got to see how people act, and then you got to figure out how to get around them like an obstacle course. If you want to walk out of here.”
“Graduate.”
“Walk out of here,” Turner corrected.
In this passage, Whitehead utilizes ethos to illustrate how Turner appeals to his own authority when addressing Elwood. Elwood is new at Nickel Academy and still believes that his steadfast values of self-respect, resistance, and morality will hold up against the oppressive forces of racism and violence. Turner, however, knows Elwood intimately and uses his experience to persuade Elwood that an assimilationist approach is safer. Elwood's assumption that Turner means “graduate” when he really means “survive” is a further nod to Elwood’s naivety, strengthening Turner's argument and his credibility. Overall, this passage demonstrates how Turner uses ethos to help Elwood: even if Elwood clings to his opposing view in the moment.
Related Themes:
