Ad Hominem BY: MADDIE COSTLOW

Definition Ad hominem means “against

the man”. As the name suggests, it is a literary term that involves commenting on or against an opponent to undermine him instead of his arguments.

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Universal Example This is an example of Ad

Hominem in Politics. The opposing side of David Larsen is attacking his character by calling him a hypocrite.

“David Larsen doesn’t vote, but wants your vote.”

“David Larsen doesn’t pay his taxes, but wants a taxpayer funded job.”

Crucible Example #1

1. Ad Hominem2. Parris3. “Beware this man, Your Excellency, this man is

mischief”(Act 3, page 210).4. Parris is trying to make the argument to Danforth not

to trust John Proctor by attacking his character. Parris does this by telling Danforth that Proctor is mischief.

Crucible Example #2

1. Ad Hominem2. Parris3. “Such a Christian that will not come to church but

once a month!”(Act 3, page 211).4. Danforth asked John Proctor if he was a Christian.

When Proctor answered that he was, Parris attacked his character by saying he wasn’t even a true Christian since he only comes to church once a month.

Crucible Example #3

1. Ad Hominem2. Parris3. “Excellency, since I come to Salem this man is

blackening my name. He—”(Act 3, page 218).4. When John Proctor starts to tell Danforth about the

incident in the woods, Parris knows he is about to named for seeing the girls dancing. He wants to change the subject by undermining Proctor and accuses him of hurting his reputation.

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