What is Eristic?
The art of argumentation or controversy.
The Joy of Debating: Exploring the Art of Eristic
In creative writing, eristic refers to the art of argumentation or controversy.
Although this may seem unappealing to some, the art of eristic can often add excitement and drama to a piece of writing. Skilled writers use language and rhetoric devices to convince readers of their point of view or engage them in a lively debate.
Eristic can be traced back to the Greek word ‘eristikos’, meaning ‘fond of wrangling’. The term was later used by Plato to describe Socrates’ use of debate to expose inconsistencies in his opponent’s argument.
In modern times, eristic has been employed in many forms of creative writing, including poetry, fiction, and even screenplays. By understanding the art of eristic, writers can better engage their audience and create works that are both thought-provoking and captivating.
The use of eristic can be seen in the debate between Dr. Frankenstein and the Creature in which each defends his point of view on the nature of creation, leading to a heated argument that showcases their conflicting philosophical values.
In this witty play, the characters engage in eristic as they argue over trivial matters, making use of paradox and irony to convey their points of view in an unexpected and humorous way.