Topoi

Topoi, plural of topos, are recurring themes, patterns, or common areas of argument that appear across different texts and discussions. Think of them as mental tools or categories—like ideas, perspectives, or typical lines of reasoning—that help writers and speakers develop arguments and explore topics. They serve as starting points for analysis or persuasion, guiding how ideas are linked and communicated. In essence, topoi are the conceptual building blocks used to structure arguments and understand complex issues, making them essential in both creating and analyzing persuasive discourse.