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Abstract

For Aristotle, the ?thos’ proof is the most efficient persuasion mode because the speaker’s good character gives greater credibility to his arguments. In judicial rhetoric sphere, the dissymmetry between prosecutor and defendant significantly impacts his ?thos’ perception and, consequently, the receptivity of his claims. In order to acquire his confidence, the rhetor may resort to witnessing to reinforce his good character. But could they be used to arouse suspicion about the character (diabol?) of his opponent? Although the text of Rhetoric points to an affirmative view, moral perspective readers, like Grimaldi, deny this possibility. In this sense, based on considerations about the ?thos’ proof in Rhetoric, it is intended to observe if it is possible and to what extent diabol? could be used in this sphere, investigating its application from the witnesses’ proofs.