Storytelling and Evidence

Fridays are for Philosophy  4/29/16
Aristotle, and W. Rhys Roberts. Rhetoric. Mineola, NY: Dover, 2004. Kindle Electronic Edition.
Book III, chapter 16.

In book 3 chapter 16 Aristotle turns his attention to narration, which he says must be intermittent, in order to prevent the hearers from losing track of the case at hand (Aristotle III.16, B. 1416b). The orator should present some evidence, then illustrative narrative, then additional evidence, etc. However, the narrative must fit the case and the audience (Aristotle III.16, B. 1417a). Aristotle goes on to cite various narrative samples in literature and philosophy, pointing out how each accomplishes a purpose. The narrative is decidedly in appeal to emotion (Aristotle III.6, B. 1417b). This is a positive appeal. “Bring yourself on the stage from the first in the right character, that people may regard you in that light; and the same with your adversary; but do not let them see what you are about” (Aristotle III.16, B. 1417b). In this way the audience is more likely to accept your argument.

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