The spelling of the word "epideictical" is tricky to navigate. It is pronounced /ˌɛpɪdɪkˈtɪkəl/ and comes from the Greek word "epideixis," meaning "public show" or "display." The phonetic transcription indicates that the word begins with the prefix "epi-" followed by "dik" and ends with "-tical." The double "i" in the middle of the word can be especially confounding. Despite its spelling difficulties, "epideictical" is a useful term used to describe something pertaining to rhetorical communication or public speaking.
Epideictical is an adjective that is used to describe something that pertains to or is associated with the form of rhetoric known as epideictic oratory. This form of rhetoric is primarily concerned with expressing praise or blame towards an individual or a particular group. It is often used in ceremonial settings, such as weddings, eulogies, or celebrations, where the main purpose is to celebrate or commemorate someone or something.
In this context, epideictical speeches are characterized by their emphasis on the present moment and the immediate audience. They aim to create a sense of unity, to inspire and motivate, or to highlight the values and virtues associated with the subject of praise or blame. These speeches often employ vivid and figurative language, rhetorical devices, and emotional appeals to captivate the audience and make a lasting impression.
The term "epideictical" can also be used more broadly to describe any form of communication that serves a similar purpose of expressing approval or disapproval, celebrating or lamenting, or captivating and inspiring an audience. It can be applied to various forms of artistic expression, such as literature, music, or visual arts, when their primary aim is to convey a sense of admiration, criticism, or inspiration.
Overall, "epideictical" refers to anything that evokes strong emotions, presents value-based judgments, and serves a communicative purpose of praise or blame, typically aimed at inspiring, entertaining, or persuading an audience.
The term "epideictical" derives from the Greek word "epideiktikos", which comes from the verb "epideiknunai", meaning "to set forth" or "to exhibit". In ancient Greek rhetoric, the genre of epideictic speech, also known as "epideictic oratory", focused on praising or blaming someone or something. Epideictical, therefore, refers to something that pertains to or concerns display, demonstration, or rhetorical showmanship.