Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.15291/csi.4802
Ethos, Pathos and Logos in the Poetry of Tonči Petrasov Marović
Anita Runjić-Stoilova
orcid.org/0000-0001-5060-2083
; Faculty of Philosophy, University of Split, Split, Croatia
Abstract
Ethos, pathos, and logos are commonly viewed as rhetorical
technique, or methods and skills of persuasion in rhetoric.
Throughout history, rhetoric has been defined not only
through persuasion but also through the artistic ability of the
speaker. Therefore, this paper analyses how Tonči Petrasov
Marović employs ethos, pathos, and logos in shaping argumentation
and narrative in his poetry. Ethos refers to the
character of the speaker, and in Marović’s poetry, it is manifested
through his authenticity and personal experience. As
a poet who has endured difficult times, including a prolonged
illness, his writing reflects a deep connection to themes
of death, suffering, and human existence. By connecting
with readers through his own vulnerability, Marović creates
trust and authority. Logos in rhetoric persuades through the
power of reason, and in the analysed poems, logos is evident
in philosophical reflections and logical arguments about
life, death, and existence. Marović’s poetry often includes
elements of mythology and religion, which further enriches
the narratives and encourages readers to contemplate deeper
questions. Pathos relates to the emotions of the interlocutor
and is a crucial element of Marović’s poetry. He employs
numerous emotional images, strong metaphors, and other
figures to evoke an emotional response from readers. His
metaphors draw from a wide range of semantic fields: nature,
everyday life, health, architecture, human nature, and
states, evoking powerful emotions ranging from melancholy
and nostalgia to anxiety and fear. It is concluded that Tonči
Petrasov Marović successfully utilizes all three modes of
persuasion in his poetic work.
Keywords
ethos; pathos; logos; Tonči Petrasov Marović
Hrčak ID:
334037
URI
Publication date:
25.7.2025.
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