Abstracts
Abstract
Arguments from fairness as described in Aristotle’s Rhetoric are usually taken to aim at mitigating the strictness of the law or, in terms of procedure, to favour the defendant. This paper considers a more inclusive interpretation, that is, that arguments from fairness can work both ways. In the example given in the Rhetoric, arguments from fairness are directed at a restrictive interpretation of the text. That may not be necessary however. Likewise, fairness may speak for the claimant. Two examples may support this conclusion: a judicial speech by Hyperides, and the doctrine of issues appearing in Hellenistic school rhetoric.
Keywords:
- Aristotle,
- equity,
- extensive interpretation,
- fairness,
- rhetoric,
- stasis
Résumé
Les arguments construits à partir du principe d’équité tels que décrits dans la Rhétorique d’Aristote sont généralement considérés comme visant à atténuer la rigueur de la loi ou, en termes de procédure, à favoriser le défendeur. Cet article adopte une interprétation plus inclusive, à savoir que les arguments fondés sur l’équité peuvent fonctionner dans les deux sens. Dans l’exemple donné dans la Rhétorique, les arguments d’équité visent une interprétation restrictive du texte. Cela n’est peut-être cependant pas nécessaire. De même, l’équité peut parler en faveur du demandeur. Deux exemples peuvent étayer cette conclusion : un discours judiciaire d’Hypéride et la doctrine des enjeux apparaissant dans la rhétorique scolaire hellénistique.
Appendices
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