prolepse

Prolepse is a rhetorical device where a speaker or writer anticipates and addresses objections or questions that the audience might raise. It involves preemptively stating and then refuting a potential counterargument, thereby strengthening the speaker's position and demonstrating foresight. This technique can also be used to introduce a topic or argument by showing what it is not, or by outlining potential criticisms before presenting the main argument.

The term "prolepse" comes from the Greek word meaning "anticipation" or "preconception." In literature and oratory, its use can serve several purposes. It can make the argument seem more complete and well-considered, as it shows that the speaker has thought about all possible angles and opposing viewpoints. It can also be a way to control the narrative, guiding the audience's thoughts and framing the issue in a way that favors the speaker. By raising and dismissing objections early on, the speaker can clear the way for their main points, making them more persuasive.

There are various forms of prolepse. It can involve directly stating a likely objection and then providing a counter-argument. Alternatively, it might involve posing a question that the audience might have and then answering it. In some cases, prolepse can be used to introduce a character or event by describing its future consequences or significance, thereby creating suspense or highlighting its importance. This anticipation of future events is also a form of proleptic reasoning.