Adhortatio: Definition and Examples
Adhortatio is an exhortationOpens in new window accompanied by good reasons, short of threats or promises, primarily intended to rouse or persuade someone strongly to do something.
Adhortatio is derived from Greek (and Latin: Exhortation) basically meaning to exhort people to do something presumably for their benefit. It shares similarity with protropeOpens in new window — an exhortation that is accompanied by threats/and or promises.
Notable Examples of Adhortatio
- “In dwelling, live close to the ground.
In thinking, keep to the simple.
In governing, don’t try to control.
In work, do what you enjoy.
In family life, be completely present.”— (Tao Te Ching)
- “If you wish to write forcibly, Miss Zenobia, pay minute attention to the sensations.”
— (How to Write a Blackwood Article, 2:74)
- “Look up, laugh loud, talk big, keep the color in your cheek and the fire in your eye, adorn your person, maintain your health, your beauty and your animal spirits.”
— (William Hazlitt)