The topos of Divine Testimony in Luke-Acts. James R. McConnell

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The topos of Divine Testimony in Luke-Acts - James R. McConnell


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of the diction of the philosophers who, I think . . . prescribe no rules for speaking, but none the less undertake to discuss with overflowing copiousness, whatever subject is laid before them” (2.35.151). The context is one of oratory vs. philosophy; therefore, it is not unreasonable to assume that when Cicero mentions Aristotle’s work, one which concerns the discovery of arguments, Aristotle’s Top. is in view.

      Obviously, the commonplace is an argument elaborated more carefully and fully than other types of argument. But the distinction between loci and loci communes should not be understood as a distinction between two kinds of argument, since, for Cicero, the loci are not arguments, but resources used in discovering materials for arguments; they provide individual pieces—the timbers and planks as it were—which enter into the construction of arguments. The loci communes are finished products that integrate logical argument, emotional appeal, and style into a single structure. They are “minor forms” that contribute to the general development of a discourse but can be detached and appreciated as independent units.


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