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Irony
Definition of Logos
Logos, along with ethos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective speaking or writing). Logos is an argument that appeals to... read full definition
Logos, along with ethos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective speaking or writing). Logos is... read full definition
Logos, along with ethos and pathos, is one of the three "modes of persuasion" in rhetoric (the art of effective... read full definition
Key Examples in The Last of the Mohicans
Chapter 19
Explanation and Analysis—Leaf of a Book:
In Chapter 19, Chingachgook identifies the scalp Uncas has taken from an enemy as that of an Oneida. Surprised with the identification, Hawkeye uses a simile and logos to tell everyone why they should trust Chingachgook:
Now, to white eyes there is no difference between this bit of skin and that of any other Indian, and yet the Sagamore declares it came from the poll of a Mingo; nay, he even names the tribe of the poor devil with as much ease as if the scalp was the leaf of a book, and each hair a letter. What right have Christian whites to boast of their learning, when a savage can read a language that would prove too much for the wisest of them all!
Related Themes:
Chapter 22
Explanation and Analysis—True and Living God:
In Chapter 22, David Gamut (who is still being held hostage by the Mingos but has been allowed to roam free) tells Hawkeye that the Mingos are devil worshippers who are surely going to hell. Hawkeye uses logos to defend all American Indians from such accusations:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"[...]t would seem that they are among the profanest of the idolatrous.”
“Therein you belie the nature of an Indian. Even the Mingo adores but the true and living God. ’Tis a wicked fabrication of the whites, and I say it to the shame of my color, that would make the warrior bow down before images of his own creation. It is true, they endeavor to make truces with the wicked one—as who would not with an enemy he cannot conquer! —but they look up for favor and assistance to the Great and Good Spirit only.”
Related Themes:
