Pathos in Literature
Why do we read books? For leisure, to escape reality, or do we find fragments of ourselves amidst the words? Perhaps for all these reasons because what’s the point of reading a story that doesn’t leave a lump in your throat during a tragic scene, make you scream at the top of your lungs when your favourite characters make a wrong decision, cry your heart out till your pillow is wet, and leave you wondering about the characters long after you have put the book down? Well, that’s the power of pathos in literature. Now, we are sure some of you must be wondering about its meaning, but worry not. In this blog, we will provide you with a detailed insight into its impact.
What is Pathos in Literature?
The word pathos is derived from a Greek word meaning “emotion.” The sole purpose of pathos is to connect with the reader, aiming to kindle anger, sadness, sympathy, joy, and other such emotions. The best part about pathos is that it doesn’t feel forced, but rises from universal human experiences, relatable struggles, and vivid imagery; pathos forms one pillar of persuasion along with ethos (credibility) and logos (logic).
Think of a teenager willing to purchase a mobile and who asks his parents to buy him one by saying, “Everyone in my class has a phone, and all of them chat in a group, share important notes, memes, and stay updated with everything. I feel left out and lonely.” With this sentence, you can notice the feeling of sadness, empathy, and belonging.
Significance of Pathos
Here’s why pathos is significant in literature:
- Emotional Connection: Pathos helps readers connect with the characters on a deeper level when they find elements of sympathy and empathy. A reader feels more drawn to a story when the characters or situation are relatable and feel familiar.
- Persuasion: Authors use pathos to influence readers’ opinions and change their beliefs by tapping into their emotions.
- Memorability: Authors use pathos to evoke emotions that often stay with the readers long after they have put the book down. This makes the story memorable. We are sure, it must have happened with you as well; you may also have a favourite book that you read ages ago and still recall it when someone asks, “What’s your favourite book?”
- Comprehending Complex Issues: Relatability and emotional stories make it easier for readers to understand the complex issues and the essence of the story.
- Universal Relevance: Emotions are relevant universally; it doesn’t matter if a person is living in India or any foreign country. Authors use pathos to connect with every reader, breaking linguistic and cultural hurdles.
- Empathy and Compassion: Pathos in literature helps people understand the situation and experiences of others. They encourage feelings of empathy and sympathy, spreading compassion among the readers.
Examples of Pathos in Literature
Now that you are well-versed in the concept of pathos, let’s look at some examples of pathos in literature.
The Kite Runner
If you haven’t read The Kite Runner, then you are definitely missing out on life; it will break you, a tale that you will never forget. However, if you have read this book, we are sure you sympathise with Hassan’s character, for it speaks volumes about silence, endurance, and helplessness. You must be wondering, “Why, what’s so special?” Well, the people whom he trusts and adores the most are the reason behind his suffering. This is the best book for anybody who wishes to comprehend the true essence of pathos.
A Little Life
Abandonment, ignorance, sexual violence, you name the abuse, and you will find it in the life of Jude St. Francis. Hanya Yanagihara has deftly written the relentless suffering and Jude’s inability to see his worth, which evokes the feeling of sympathy in readers; sadly, some relate to it as well.
Romeo and Juliet
Perhaps we are all well-versed in Shakespeare’s play, Romeo and Juliet, the most tragic ending that people still recall. Despite being madly in love, the characters couldn’t be together, evoking feelings of sorrow and loss in readers.
The Fault in Our Stars
Another book that’s widely talked about is The Fault in Our Stars. Readers haven’t just read the tale of Augustus and Hazel Grace, but they have lived their journeys with them, through John Green’s impeccable storytelling. He has beautifully highlighted the pain of anticipatory grief, where the characters doted on each other while already mourning them.
This book is again a wonderful example of understanding pathos.
White Nights
White Nights is for all the solitudinarians and lonely dreamers, for nobody would ever be able to relate to that book the way these people will. Fyodor Dostoevsky has beautifully elucidated the paradox of society; it emphasises the pain of unfulfilled desires and the fragility of happiness. It leaves the readers feeling awful for the narrator at the end because all of them believed that he deserved better, thanks to the use of pathos in the narrative.
Wuthering Heights
Emily Brontë has evoked feelings of pity mixed with unease with her tale, Wuthering Heights, among readers. The story reflects what happens when love torments, becomes obsessive, and destructive.
Also, check – Top 10 Best Books to Read for Business Success
On a Parting Note
Pathos doesn’t just influence people’s beliefs; it transforms them. It builds unforgettable narratives that stay with the readers forever. It makes their heart skip a beat, engulfs them with sorrow, leaves a smile on their face, and often restores their faith in humanity. We presume we have successfully explained the meaning of pathos; let us know which is your favourite book in the comments.
