KMT 2022 nr 1 Download PDF

Topos in the film. Theoretical outline about the argumentative function of topos

Cite: , Topos w filmie. Rys teoretyczny o argumentacyjnej funkcji toposu, "Kultura - Media - Teologia", 2022( 49) nr 1, s. 34-47.

DOI: 10.21697/kmt.49.2

The aim of the article is to present one of the methods of rhetorical argumentation in the film. An attempt was made to explain what the trop in the film is and what functions it performs in it. The well-known and recognizable topoi in cinema genre (eg a lonely hero in a western) and their “evolution of trop” were analysed. The trop recognizable in the film of facts and fiction is the trop of the face close-up, which is a component of the so-called affective structures. The main part of the article is devoted to theoretical considerations and analysis of this type of trop in a film (fiction and film of facts). The prime function of the trop in the film is to influence the effectiveness of communication. The well- known and recognizable topoi allow the rhetorician (the filmmaker) to establish contact with the viewer. Trop is also associated with pathos; therefore, the article contains comments related to the rhetorical function of movere. The author uses knowledge in the field of film research and rhetoric, which has a global reach and recognition.

About authors

Bogumiła Fiołek-Lubczyńska

Uniwersytet Łódzki

ORCID: 0000-0001-9180-7237