Introduction
Concession is a literary and rhetorical device in which a writer acknowledges a point made by an opponent. It allows the writer to appear fair and reasonable, showing that they have considered multiple perspectives before arriving at their conclusion. Concession strengthens an argument by addressing potential counterarguments and refuting them, making the writer’s position more robust.
Pronunciation
kən-SESH-uhn
How Writers Use Concession
Writers use concession to:
- Acknowledge Opposing Views: Recognize the validity of different perspectives.
- Strengthen Arguments: Address and refute counterarguments, reinforcing the writer’s position.
- Build Credibility: Demonstrate fairness and objectivity, enhancing the writer’s credibility.
- Engage Readers: Show respect for differing opinions, engaging a broader audience.
- Enhance Persuasion: Create a balanced and well-rounded argument, making it more persuasive.
Types of Concession
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Concession | Acknowledges a single opposing point before refuting it. | “While it’s true that remote work can lead to isolation, it also offers flexibility and productivity benefits.” |
| Complex Concession | Acknowledges multiple opposing points before addressing them. | “Although renewable energy sources can be costly to implement initially, they provide long-term environmental and economic benefits.” |
| Strategic Concession | Uses concession to strategically disarm an opponent’s argument. | “Granted, our competitor’s product is cheaper, but our superior quality ensures better value over time.” |
| Concession with Evidence | Supports the concession with evidence before refuting it. | “Yes, there have been instances of vaccine side effects, but extensive research shows that vaccines are overwhelmingly safe and effective.” |
Rules of Concession
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Acknowledge Fairly | Fairly acknowledge the opposing point without dismissing it outright. |
| Provide Evidence | Support your refutation with strong evidence and reasoning. |
| Stay Relevant | Ensure that the concession is directly related to the main argument. |
| Be Respectful | Respect the opposing view to maintain a civil and persuasive tone. |
| Reinforce Your Position | Use the concession to ultimately strengthen your own argument. |
Examples of Concession in Different Media
Concession in Literature
| Title | Author | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Pride and Prejudice | Jane Austen | Elizabeth Bennet acknowledges Darcy’s initial pride but highlights his underlying virtues. |
| To Kill a Mockingbird | Harper Lee | Atticus Finch concedes the prejudice in Maycomb but argues for justice and empathy. |
| 1984 | George Orwell | Winston concedes the Party’s power but continues to seek personal truth and freedom. |
Concession in Children’s Books
| Title | Author | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte’s Web | E.B. White | Charlotte acknowledges the inevitability of death but emphasizes the value of life and friendship. |
| Harry Potter Series | J.K. Rowling | Harry acknowledges the dangers of facing Voldemort but stresses the importance of courage and sacrifice. |
| The Giving Tree | Shel Silverstein | The tree acknowledges its own loss but highlights the joy of giving selflessly. |
Concession in Poetry
| Poem | Poet | Example |
|---|---|---|
| The Road Not Taken | Robert Frost | The speaker concedes that both paths are equally worn but reflects on the choice’s impact. |
| If | Rudyard Kipling | Kipling acknowledges life’s challenges but encourages resilience and integrity. |
| Ode to a Nightingale | John Keats | Keats concedes the nightingale’s transient nature but celebrates its beauty and song. |
Concession in Songs
| Song | Artist | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Imagine | John Lennon | Lennon acknowledges the world’s flaws but envisions a better future. |
| Blowin’ in the Wind | Bob Dylan | Dylan concedes the existence of suffering but questions when change will come. |
| Man in the Mirror | Michael Jackson | Jackson admits personal flaws but advocates for self-improvement and social change. |
Concession in Movies
| Movie | Scene | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A Few Good Men | Courtroom Scene | The defense acknowledges the harshness of military life but argues against unethical practices. |
| The Dark Knight | Joker’s Interrogation | Batman concedes the Joker’s chaotic influence but asserts the importance of justice. |
| 12 Angry Men | Jury Deliberation | Jurors concede some points of the prosecution but ultimately argue for reasonable doubt. |
YouTube Links:
- A Few Good Men – Courtroom Scene
- The Dark Knight – Joker’s Interrogation
- 12 Angry Men – Jury Deliberation
Concession in Advertising
| Advertisement | Company | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Think Small | Volkswagen | Acknowledges the small size of the Beetle but highlights its efficiency and economy. |
| Real Beauty | Dove | Concedes that beauty standards are narrow but promotes a broader definition of beauty. |
| Priceless | Mastercard | Admits that some things can’t be bought but emphasizes the value of experiences. |
YouTube Links:
FAQs about Concession
What is concession in literature?
Concession in literature is a device where the writer acknowledges an opposing point, demonstrating fairness and balance in their argument.
How does concession differ from a counterargument?
While a counterargument presents an opposing viewpoint to challenge the main argument, concession acknowledges the opposing point before refuting it to strengthen the main argument.
Can concession be used in all types of writing?
Yes, concession can be effectively used in various types of writing, including literature, poetry, songs, movies, and advertising, to create balanced and persuasive arguments.
Why is concession important in writing?
Concession is important because it demonstrates fairness, enhances credibility, addresses potential counterarguments, and strengthens the writer’s overall argument.
Related Devices
Counterargument
Presenting an opposing viewpoint to challenge the main argument, often followed by a rebuttal.
Refutation
Directly addressing and disproving an opposing argument or point of view.
Rhetorical Question
A question posed for rhetorical effect, often to emphasize a point rather than to solicit an answer.
Antithesis
A rhetorical device that contrasts two opposing ideas in a parallel structure to highlight their differences.
Dialectic
A form of dialogue or debate that involves the exchange of logical arguments to explore different perspectives and uncover truth.