suasoria

A suasoria is a type of rhetorical exercise, particularly prominent in ancient Roman education. Its primary purpose was to train students in the art of persuasion, specifically in delivering advice or counsel. Unlike a deliberative speech, which might argue for a course of action in a public assembly, the suasoria typically presented a historical or hypothetical situation and asked the student to advise a particular person, often a historical figure, on what they should do. For example, a student might be asked to advise Alexander the Great on whether or not to cross into Asia, or to advise Hercules on which path to take.

The suasoria demanded that the student research the relevant context, understand the character and motivations of the person being advised, and then construct a logical and compelling argument. It was a practical application of rhetorical principles, focusing on ethos (the speaker's character), pathos (appealing to emotions), and logos (logical reasoning). The exercise encouraged critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to frame arguments persuasively. It served as a foundational element in developing effective public speaking and persuasive writing.