As a scholar in the field of classical rhetoric, I am well-versed in the intricacies of its various canons. Cicero, a prominent Roman orator and philosopher, contributed significantly to the development of Western rhetoric. His understanding of "invention" is foundational to the discipline.

Invention, as one of the five canons of rhetoric, is a critical process that involves the discovery and organization of arguments. It is derived from the Latin word "inventio," which indeed means "invention" or "discovery." This term does not refer to the modern sense of creating something new from nothing, but rather to the uncovering of arguments that are persuasive and relevant to the matter at hand.

Cicero's conception of invention is multifaceted. It involves the systematic search for arguments that can be used to persuade an audience. This process is not just about finding any argument, but about identifying those that are most compelling and fitting for the situation. It requires a deep understanding of the subject matter, the audience, and the context in which the speech or writing is taking place.

Invention is also about the strategic use of different types of arguments. Cicero recognized that there are various forms of argumentation, including logical reasoning, emotional appeals, and ethical persuasion. By employing a variety of these strategies, a speaker or writer can construct a more comprehensive and convincing argument.

Moreover, invention is not a one-time process but an ongoing one. It is the first step in the rhetorical process, but it is also something that can be revisited as new information becomes available or as the needs of the argument evolve. This iterative nature of invention allows for a dynamic and adaptable approach to persuasion.

Cicero also emphasized the importance of memory in the process of invention. While this may seem counterintuitive, the ability to recall and organize arguments effectively is a crucial part of the rhetorical process. It allows the speaker or writer to draw upon a vast array of arguments and to present them in a coherent and compelling manner.

In summary, Cicero's understanding of invention is a comprehensive and strategic approach to discovering and employing arguments in rhetoric. It is about the discovery of compelling and relevant arguments, the strategic use of various forms of argumentation, and the ongoing process of refining and adapting these arguments to suit the needs of the situation.

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Inventio, one of the five canons of rhetoric, is the method used for the discovery of arguments in Western rhetoric and comes from the Latin word, meaning "invention" or "discovery". Inventio is the central, indispensable canon of rhetoric, and traditionally means a systematic search for arguments.read more >>