(Translation: English version of entimema)
A rhetorical syllogism, i.e., a logical argument where one of the premises is implied.
Example
Socrates is mortal because he is a man
The implied major premise is that all men are mortal.
This model can be used to create a Thesis for a text whose structure will be decided later. In short essays, it is the second step of preparation.
An example is:
Reading fiction is important
Applying the enthymeme, we get:
Reading fiction is important because it helps people develop empathy
The implied major premise is that empathy is important in society.
At this point, you can work further by applying the SMART criteria. The thesis can be made more specific, measurable, relevant for a certain target, or by taking into account the different fields of the Rhetorical Situation.
Example
Reading character-driven fiction should be encouraged in schools, because requiring students to inhabit complex, unfamiliar viewpoints helps them develop empathy and social understanding.
From this thesis, which is very specific and well-constructed, at least 6 questions emerge, the answers to which would provide an outline:
- What is reading?
- How is it taught in schools?
- What is character-driven fiction?
- How does it help to experience different points of view?
- How does this help to develop empathy?
- What should schools do to encourage it?
To arrive at choosing the implied answer, I can use Questions of subject.
This is a more elaborate and robust approach compared to this: How to create a Clearly structured essay outline.