epiplexis
Noun: A rhetorical device or figure of speech where the speaker asks one or more questions not to gain information, but to reproach, rebuke, or express strong disapproval toward the audience or an opponent. Its primary purpose is to incite, convince, or provoke an emotional or intellectual response through the form of a challenging inquiry.
Epiplexis is used in persuasive contexts such as speeches, debates, literature, and political oratory. It is a form of rhetorical question designed to criticize or shame rather than to elicit an answer. The speaker uses it to imply that the answer is obvious and that the audience's behavior or belief is therefore wrong or foolish.
- In a political speech: "How long will you ignore the suffering of the poor? How long will you remain silent?" (The questions reproach the audience for their inaction.)
- In a dramatic monologue: "Are you blind? Can you not see the damage you have caused?" (The speaker rebukes the listener, implying the evidence of wrongdoing is clear.)
- In persuasive writing: "What were you thinking? Did you believe there would be no consequences?" (These questions express strong disapproval of a past action.)
Epiplexis often functions as a subtype of erotema (the broader category of rhetorical questions). It is characterized by its accusatory or admonishing tone. Skilled use involves building a series of questions to intensify the reproach and amplify the emotional appeal (pathos) directed at the audience.
- Rhetorical Question (n): A general question asked for effect with no expectation of an answer. Epiplexis is a specific, reproachful kind of rhetorical question.
- Interrogatio (n): Another term for a rhetorical question.
- Aporia (n): A rhetorical device expressing doubt or uncertainty, often through questions, but without the reproachful element of epiplexis.
- Reproachful questioning
- Accusatory interrogation
- Rebuking inquiry
While not a phrasal verb, epiplexis is closely related to the conversational idiom "How could you?" or "What were you thinking?" These are everyday examples where a question is used solely to express blame or disappointment, not to seek information.
- a rhetorical device in which the speaker reproaches the audience in order to incite or convince them