What term refers to the quality in literature that evokes feelings of pity or sadness?

The term that refers to the quality in literature that evokes feelings of pity or sadness is pathos. This concept is crucial in literature and rhetoric, as it appeals to the audience's emotions and creates a connection between the piece and the reader or listener. Pathos is often achieved through vivid imagery, relatable experiences, and the portrayal of characters in distress or challenging situations. By engaging with the audience's emotions, authors can enhance the impact of their messages and themes, making the work resonate on a deeper level.

In contrast, logos refers to logical reasoning and the use of factual evidence to persuade, while ethos deals with the credibility and ethical appeal of the speaker or writer. Diacope, which involves the repetition of a word or phrase with a short separation, does not specifically relate to emotional appeal, marking a clear distinction in purpose and effect from pathos. Understanding the role of pathos in literature allows readers to appreciate how writers evoke strong emotional responses that enhance the thematic depth of their works.