Quintilian and the Morality of Eloquence

Quintilian was a Latin teacher and writer who lived in the 1st century AD. His work on rhetoric, Institutio Oratoria, is a major contribution to educational theory and literary criticism.

For Quintilian, eloquence was far more than a technical skill - it was a profound moral endeavour.

He defined rhetoric as the science of speaking well, equating good discourse with virtue, putting it beyond reproach and setting it up as a skill that only those of a higher moral character could master.

His view could be seen as a way to combat objections to rhetoric as a technique that can be put to bad as well as good ends, as discussed by Cicero in his work De Oratore.

Here his colleague, Scaevola, points to instances in which excellent speakers have persuaded others to engage in moral or immoral actions.

We can think of many examples of this - which is why Quintilian’s definition is so fascinating - his bid to anchor rhetoric in moral integrity reframes it as more than just persuasion.

For three quick takeaways on Quintilian’s view, keep reading…

#1: Eloquence Reflects Integrity

Quintilian argued that the ideal orator must be a good man speaking well. In his mind, this isn’t just an ethical requirement - it’s a practical one.

Audiences are instinctively sceptical of speakers who lack authenticity or moral authority.

#2: Beauty Enhances Truth

For Quintilian, the aesthetic and moral dimensions of rhetoric were inseparable. Eloquence - the rhythm, imagery, and structure of speech - wasn’t mere decoration. 

Instead, it served to illuminate and elevate truth.

#3: Rhetoric is a Moral Responsibility

It’s undeniable that rhetoric has great power to shape minds and societies. This is why -according to Quintilian, oratory carried a sacred duty.

The orator’s role wasn’t to manipulate but to uplift, educate, and guide toward the common good.

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To conclude, Quintilian views eloquence not as a neutral tool, but as a force for moral and intellectual progress.

Communication often feels cheapened by cynicism and spectacle. By elevating rhetoric as a virtue, Quintilian gives public speaking a place on the highest plane of human effort, where words are meant to reflect truth, integrity, and purpose.

Do you agree with Quintilian that eloquence is a moral responsibility?