Ethos is a literary term that refers to the author’s credibility. It is an author’s way of convincing the reader that he or she is credible, and that the story is worth reading. Ethos is one of three rhetorical appeals (along with pathos and logos) that can be used in literature.
Ethos is about establishing credibility with the reader. Pathos is about appealing to emotions and logos is about appealing to logic.
Ethos can be very effective in persuading readers because people generally trust other people more than they trust books or stories.
In order to establish credibility, the author needs to convince readers that he or she is credible by using techniques such as testimonials from experts or other credible people, or even personal experiences. The author can also use quotes from respected sources, such as scientists or historians.
The author also needs to appeal to emotions so readers will be more likely to believe what they are reading and also feel an emotional connection with characters in the story. They may do this by creating strong characters who are likeable and relatable (at least on some level). This will make it easier for readers to relate with them and feel their pain when things go wrong for them in the story. It will also give them someone other than themselves (the reader) to root for at times during the story when things look bleak for one of their favorite characters.
