What ended up happening though, as I watched Elder Bednar finish conference with that masterpiece, I couldn't help but put some analysis into it. The thing that really impressed me, and increased my respect for Elder Bednar was his use of authoritative maxims and proverbs as we learned from our topics of invention.
As if it wasn't enough to establish his ethos with the authoritative quote of one former prophet, Elder Bednar chose to quote proverbs from the last six prophets and apostles that have passed away. He loved these men, and it was evident in his desire to remind us of the profound things they have said in the past. The reminder of these proverbs was a very powerful way to end the conference, and I know it was truly inspired.
The interesting thing is, by using this authoritative method, Elder Bednar is now, one of those authorities for millions of others who wish to establish their own ethos. That is what we do, we want to support our claims, and statements, until it gets to the point where our own claims and statements can be used as a proverb or maxim. It is almost like a cycle.
I think that in addition to building ethos, Elder Bednar's use of quotes from past prophets and apostles helped to build pathos. By saying that he loved these men and then stating some strong quotations accompanied by pictures of them, he connected with and reminded the audience that they love and miss those apostles and prophets, too.
ReplyDeleteNice comment, Alexis! And Isaac, I think you made a great point. We already associate a lot of authority with these apostles. One thing that I noticed and that we discussed in class was the fact that the new apostles, especially Elder Rasband, made an attempt to humbly build ethos by referencing past apostles and quoting from them.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of these awesome comments. I love how each apostle or prophet has pretty much the same amount of credibility but deliver their talks in different forms. I don't know how exciting conference would be if they all followed the same pattern.
ReplyDeleteWhat is your major? If it does not have something to do with writing, I am going to be extremely disappointed. You have an amazing way with words! I am so impressed how you continuously write with such conviction and over such inspiring topics. I agree that the love among the general authorities is both impressive and inspiring. I hope to reach this type of devotion to others in my life.
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