Ethos, Pathos and Logos in the Poetry of Tonči Petrasov Marović

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.