Now that you have read The Art of War, write 1-2 paragraphs (5-7 sentences) describing Sun Tzu’s use of rhetoric in that work. Include examples of at least two types of rhetorical techniques that he uses. How do these rhetorical techniques advance the purpose of the work?
Sun Tzu effectively utilizes several rhetorical techniques in The Art of War to convey his strategies and teachings on military tactics. One of the rhetorical techniques he employs is the use of analogy. Sun Tzu often compares warfare to various natural phenomena, such as water or fire, to explain the fluidity and unpredictability of battle. For example, he states, "Be extremely subtle, even to the point of formlessness. Be extremely mysterious, even to the point of soundlessness." This analogy helps readers understand the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in warfare.
Additionally, Sun Tzu utilizes parallelism in his writing to emphasize key points and create a sense of rhythm and balance in his arguments. For instance, he writes, "There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must not be attacked, towns which must not be besieged, positions which must not be contested." This repetition of structure helps reinforce the idea that strategic decision-making is essential in warfare. These rhetorical techniques serve to engage the reader, clarify complex concepts, and ultimately advance the purpose of the work by providing practical insights into successful military strategies.