Paths to seduce Helen. Or the Rhetorical Proposals of Gorgias, Plato and Aristotle

Abstract

In this paper I will try to show how the positions dispute between Gorgias and Plato for the place of the λόγος, its power and the right to use it are articulated on two key texts (especially but not exclusively): the Encomium of Helen and Phaedrus, respectively . To do this I will analyze the role allotted to emotional-affective elements is the touchstone from which Gorgianic sophistic rhetoric and Platonic philosophical rhetoric clearly show their differences. Finally, I will make reference to the posture assumed by Aristotle against this heritage in Rhetoric through his approach to the three proof media (ἦθος, πάθος, λόγος), of equal importance to achieve persuasion.