Which rhetorical strategy relies on the speaker's credibility and character?

The correct choice, which is ethos, focuses on the speaker's credibility and character. Ethos is a rhetorical strategy that establishes trust and authority, allowing the audience to feel confident in the speaker's ethics, competence, and intentions. When speakers demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and moral integrity, they create a connection with their audience, which enhances their persuasive power. By conveying a strong ethos, speakers are more likely to influence their listeners and earn their support.

Logos, the first option, pertains to logical reasoning and the use of evidence and facts to persuade an audience. While important, it does not emphasize the speaker's character.

Pathos relates to appealing to the audience's emotions, intending to evoke feelings such as sympathy, anger, or joy to persuade them. While effective, this strategy does not focus on the speaker's credibility.

Mythos refers to appealing to cultural narratives and shared beliefs or values, aimed at connecting the message to the audience's cultural context. Though it can enhance persuasive efforts, it also does not center on the individual speaker’s credibility.

Thus, ethos stands out in its exclusive connection to the speaker's character and authority in persuasive communication.