Ethos et ironie: le cas de Pierre Bayard, professeur rusé

This article delves into the intertwined nature of ethos and irony, tracing their origins to Ancient Greece and their evolution over the centuries. It postulates that the concept of “ironic ethos” plays a crucial role in literary analysis by shedding light on how authors craft their self-image through their works, particularly through the strategic use of irony. The paper employs a critical examination of Pierre Bayard’s How to Talk About Books You Haven’t Read as a case study, showcasing how Bayard, as an author, constructs a cunning intellectual persona using self-irony. The conclusion posits that the notion of ironic ethos provides a valuable tool in understanding the complexities of writers’ self-representation, enriching the discourse on literary analysis and authorial intent.