Africana Periodical Literature 
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 Periodical article |
 Leiden University catalogue |
 WorldCat |
| Title: | Dismantling Fear and Establishing Ethos: Missionary Activity as Persuasion |
| Author: | Naaeke, Anthony |
| Year: | 2006 |
| Periodical: | Journal of Dagaare Studies |
| Volume: | 6 |
| Pages: | 29-38 |
| Language: | English |
| Geographic term: | Ghana |
| Subjects: | missions Dagari Religion and Witchcraft Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups) |
| Abstract: | Why did the Dagaaba (Dagari) of northwestern Ghana respond so positively to the Catholic evangelization of missionaries? The author contends that, as a persuasive endeavour, missionaries in Africa successfully employed the rhetorical 'topoi' (places of argument) of dismantling fear and establishing 'ethos' (credibility or character) with the result that many Dagaaba converted to Christianity. He bases his argument on the rhetorical theory of Aristotle, Cicero, Quintilian and Augustine. He shows that the missionaries made relentless efforts to address the religious and physical needs of the people. Missionaries worked hard to dispel fear. They were agents of forgiveness for those who were falsely accused of witchcraft. They gave hope to the sick, women and those oppressed by evil spirits. They intervened through prayers by securing rain during a period of severe drought. They showed love and communion by being constantly in close proximity with the people, eating their food, visiting them in their homes, and teaching them in the schools. Above all, they pointed them to a God who loves, forgives and provides for His people. In sum, the missionaries shared 'ethos' with the Dagaaba. Bibliogr., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract] |
