BEGLA 137 Question Bank
BEGLA 137 Question Bank
Sure, here are the definitions and examples for each literary device:
(a) Synecdoche
Synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part of something represents the whole or vice versa. This
literary device allows a smaller component to stand in for a larger concept, making descriptions
more vivid and concise. For example, saying "all hands on deck" uses "hands" to represent the
sailors, implying the need for all crew members to help. Another example is referring to a car as
"wheels," emphasizing the part that signifies the whole vehicle. Synecdoche enhances imagery and
can create a stronger connection between the reader and the text by focusing on essential elements.
(b) Understatement
Understatement is a literary device where a writer intentionally makes a situation seem less
important or serious than it is. This technique often adds humor or irony to the narrative. For
instance, if someone faced a major disaster and remarked, "It was a bit of a problem," they would
be using understatement to downplay the severity of the situation. Another example is Mark Twain's
famous line, "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated." By understating the false reports of
his death, Twain adds a humorous and ironic twist. Understatement can effectively highlight the true
magnitude of an event or situation by contrast.
(c) Tension
Tension in literature refers to the sense of suspense or anxiety that the reader feels due to the
conflict or anticipation of what will happen next. This element keeps readers engaged and invested
in the story. For example, in a mystery novel, the tension builds as clues are revealed, and the
protagonist gets closer to discovering the culprit. A classic example is in Shakespeare's "Macbeth,"
where the tension mounts as Macbeth's ambition leads to paranoia and madness. The audience feels
the strain between Macbeth's desires and the moral consequences of his actions. Tension is crucial
in creating a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.
(d) Paradox
A paradox is a statement that contradicts itself or defies intuition, yet often contains a deeper truth
upon closer examination. This literary device can provoke thought and highlight complex realities.
For example, the statement "Less is more" seems contradictory, but it suggests that simplicity can
lead to greater impact or meaning. Another example is in George Orwell's "1984," where the slogan
"War is peace" illustrates the contradictory and manipulative nature of the totalitarian regime.
Paradoxes challenge readers to think beyond conventional logic and uncover underlying truths,
adding layers of complexity to the text
Certainly! Here are the short notes on each literary device with examples:
(a) Allegory
An allegory is a narrative technique in which characters, events, and settings represent abstract
ideas or moral qualities beyond their literal meaning. This device is often used to convey complex
truths and commentaries on society, politics, or morality. A well-known example is George Orwell's
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"Animal Farm," where the farm animals and their rebellion symbolize the events leading up to the
Russian Revolution and the subsequent Soviet regime. Another example is John Bunyan's "The
Pilgrim's Progress," where the protagonist's journey represents the Christian path to salvation.
Allegories create a layered reading experience, allowing readers to explore deeper meanings and
messages.
(b) Hyperbole
Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally, used to emphasize a
point or evoke strong feelings. This figure of speech adds humor or dramatic effect to writing. For
instance, saying "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" highlights extreme hunger through
exaggeration. Another example is in William Shakespeare's "Macbeth," where Macbeth claims,
"Will all great Neptune's ocean wash this blood clean from my hand?" to emphasize his
overwhelming guilt. Hyperbole is effective in making descriptions more vivid and impactful, often
evoking an emotional response from the reader.
(c) Euphemism
Euphemism is a mild or indirect word or expression used to replace one that is considered harsh,
blunt, or unpleasant. This device softens the impact of the subject matter, making it more palatable.
For example, using "passed away" instead of "died" is a common euphemism to address the topic of
death sensitively. Another example is referring to someone as "economically disadvantaged" instead
of "poor." Euphemisms are often employed in contexts like politics, business, and everyday
conversation to address sensitive issues without causing discomfort or offense.
(d) Onomatopoeia
Onomatopoeia is a literary device where a word imitates the natural sound associated with it. These
words mimic the sounds they describe, enhancing the sensory experience of the reader. Examples
include words like "buzz," which replicates the sound of a bee, or "sizzle," which mimics the sound
of frying. In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Bells," the repeated use of onomatopoeic words like "tinkle,"
"clang," and "clangor" evokes the actual sounds of different types of bells. Onomatopoeia enriches
the text by making descriptions more vivid and engaging, allowing readers to hear the sounds
described.
Sure! Here are the definitions and examples for each literary device:
(a) Personification
Personification is a literary device where human traits, emotions, or actions are attributed to
animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts. This technique creates vivid imagery and
emotional connections for the reader. For example, in Emily Dickinson's poem "Because I could not
stop for Death," Death is personified as a courteous carriage driver. Another example is in the
sentence "The wind whispered through the trees," where the wind is given the human ability to
whisper. Personification helps bring descriptions to life, making them more relatable and engaging.
(b) Metaphor
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A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things without
using "like" or "as." It asserts that one thing is another, highlighting shared qualities and creating a
deeper understanding. For example, in William Shakespeare's "As You Like It," the line "All the
world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players" compares the world to a stage and
people to actors, suggesting that life is a performance. Another example is "Time is a thief," which
implies that time steals moments from our lives. Metaphors enrich language by adding layers of
meaning and insight.
(c) Paradox
A paradox is a statement that appears contradictory or illogical but reveals a deeper truth upon
closer examination. This literary device challenges readers to think critically and uncover
underlying meanings. For example, the phrase "Less is more" suggests that simplicity can lead to
greater impact or beauty, despite seeming contradictory. In literature, George Orwell's "1984" uses
the slogan "War is peace" to illustrate the manipulative contradictions of a totalitarian regime.
Paradoxes provoke thought and highlight the complexities of concepts, often leading to a deeper
appreciation of the text.
(d) Repetition
Repetition is a literary device where words, phrases, or structures are repeated to emphasize a point,
create rhythm, or enhance the overall impact of a piece. This technique can reinforce themes and
make the text more memorable. For example, in Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech,
the repeated phrase "I have a dream" emphasizes his vision for equality and justice. Another
example is in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Bells," where the word "bells" is repeated to mimic the
continuous ringing and create a musical quality. Repetition can intensify emotions and draw
attention to key ideas within the text.
(a) Types of Compounds (b) Speech and Writing (c) Extended Metaphor (d)
Eulogy
Certainly! Here are the short notes on each topic with examples:
(a) Types of Compounds
Compounds are words formed by combining two or more words to create a new meaning. There are
three main types of compounds:
1. Closed Compounds: These are written as a single word without spaces. For example,
"toothpaste" combines "tooth" and "paste" to refer to a substance used for cleaning teeth.
2. Hyphenated Compounds: These use hyphens to connect words. For instance, "mother-in-
law" combines "mother," "in," and "law" to describe a person's spouse's mother.
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3. Open Compounds: These are written as separate words. An example is "post office," where
"post" and "office" together refer to a place where mail services are provided.
Compounds enhance the richness of language by creating specific, nuanced meanings from simpler
words.
(b) Speech and Writing
Speech and writing are two primary modes of human communication, each with distinct
characteristics and uses.
1. Speech: This is the oral form of language, characterized by immediate feedback, intonation,
and body language. It is often spontaneous and can include colloquial language. For
example, a conversation between friends might involve slang and informal expressions.
2. Writing: This is the written form of language, typically more structured and permanent than
speech. It allows for careful planning and revision. Writing often follows grammatical
conventions and formalities not always present in speech. For instance, academic papers and
legal documents exemplify structured, formal writing.
Understanding the differences between speech and writing helps in choosing the appropriate mode
for various contexts and audiences.
(c) Extended Metaphor
An extended metaphor is a metaphor that extends over several lines or throughout an entire literary
work. It involves a sustained comparison between two unlike things, adding depth and insight to the
subject. For example, in Shakespeare's "As You Like It," the extended metaphor of life as a theater
play ("All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players") runs through a lengthy
passage, comparing life stages to acts in a play. Another example is in Robert Frost's poem "The
Road Not Taken," where the entire poem uses the metaphor of a diverging road to explore choices
and their consequences in life. Extended metaphors provide a deeper exploration of themes and
ideas by maintaining the comparison over a longer span.
(d) Eulogy
A eulogy is a speech or written tribute praising and commemorating someone who has passed away.
It is usually delivered at a funeral or memorial service, highlighting the deceased's life,
achievements, and impact on others. A eulogy aims to honor the person's memory and provide
comfort to the grieving. For example, in his famous eulogy for Martin Luther King Jr., Robert F.
Kennedy spoke of King's dedication to justice and equality, emphasizing his nonviolent approach
and profound influence on society. Eulogies often include anecdotes, personal reflections, and
expressions of loss, celebrating the deceased's legacy and offering solace to the audience.
Certainly! Here are the definitions and examples for each of the literary devices:
Synecdoche
Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part of something represents the whole, or vice versa.
This device allows a specific element to stand for the broader concept or entity.
Example 1: "All hands on deck." Here, "hands" refers to sailors, using a part (hands) to represent
the whole (sailors).
Example 2: "The White House issued a statement." In this case, "The White House" refers to the
President and their administration, using a specific part (the White House building) to represent the
whole institution.
Hyperbole
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Hyperbole is a literary device that involves deliberate and obvious exaggeration for emphasis or
effect. It is not meant to be taken literally but is used to create a strong impression.
Example 1: "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse." This exaggeration emphasizes the speaker's extreme
hunger.
Example 2: In William Shakespeare's "Macbeth," Macbeth says, "Will all great Neptune's ocean
wash this blood clean from my hand?" This hyperbolic expression underscores Macbeth's
overwhelming guilt.
Rhythm
Rhythm in literature refers to the patterned flow of sound in poetry and prose, created through the
arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables, pauses, and repetitions. It enhances the musical
quality of the text and can evoke different emotions.
Example 1: In Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven," the rhythmic repetition of "Once upon a midnight
dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary" creates a haunting and melodic effect.
Example 2: In William Blake's poem "The Tyger," the line "Tyger Tyger, burning bright, / In the
forests of the night" uses a regular rhythmic pattern to create a sense of awe and mystery.
Personification
Personification is a literary device where human traits, emotions, or actions are attributed to
animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts. This technique creates vivid imagery and makes
descriptions more relatable.
Example 1: "The wind whispered through the trees." Here, the wind is given the human ability to
whisper, creating a serene and gentle image.
Example 2: In Emily Dickinson's poem "Because I could not stop for Death," Death is personified
as a courteous carriage driver, making the abstract concept of death more tangible and
approachable.
These literary devices enhance the depth and texture of writing, making it more engaging and
evocative for readers.
Sure! Here are the short notes on each of the literary devices:
Alliteration
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Alliteration is a literary device where the same consonant sound is repeated at the beginning of
closely connected words. It creates a musical effect and can emphasize certain phrases or themes
within a text.
Example 1: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers." The repetition of the "p" sound creates a
rhythmic, catchy phrase.
Example 2: In Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," the line "The
fair breeze blew, the white foam flew" uses alliteration to enhance the imagery and create a lyrical
quality.
Exaggeration
Exaggeration, also known as hyperbole, is a figure of speech that involves deliberate and obvious
overstatement used for emphasis or effect. It is not intended to be taken literally but serves to create
a strong impression or evoke strong feelings.
Example 1: "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse." This phrase emphasizes extreme hunger through
obvious exaggeration.
Example 2: In Jonathan Swift's "A Modest Proposal," the suggestion that poor Irish families sell
their children as food to the rich is an exaggeration meant to criticize British policy towards Ireland.
Oxymoron
An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two seemingly contradictory terms appear in
conjunction. This device highlights paradoxes and can add depth or humor to a phrase or
description.
Example 1: "Deafening silence" combines contradictory terms to emphasize an overwhelmingly
quiet situation.
Example 2: In Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet," the phrase "parting is such sweet sorrow" uses
oxymoron to convey the complex emotions of saying goodbye to a loved one.
Rhetoric
Rhetoric is the art of effective or persuasive communication, whether in writing or speech. It
involves using language strategically to influence or persuade an audience. Rhetoric employs
various techniques to make arguments more compelling.
Example 1: In Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, he uses repetition, metaphors, and
emotional appeals to inspire and persuade his audience toward civil rights.
Example 2: In advertising, slogans like "Just Do It" (Nike) employ rhetoric to persuade consumers
to take action and associate positive qualities with their brand.
These literary devices enhance the effectiveness, richness, and emotional impact of language,
making writing and speech more engaging and persuasive.
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Q. Define the following literary devices with suitable example :
Certainly! Here are the definitions and examples for each of the literary devices:
Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things,
suggesting that one thing is another to highlight their similarities and create a deeper meaning.
Example: "Time is a thief." In this metaphor, time is compared to a thief to convey the idea that time
steals moments and opportunities from us, emphasizing its relentless and inexorable nature.
Symbol
A symbol is a literary device where an object, person, situation, or action represents something
beyond its literal meaning. Symbols often carry complex meanings and can evoke deeper emotions
or ideas.
Example: In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlet Letter," the scarlet letter 'A' worn by Hester
Prynne symbolizes both her sin of adultery and her strength in enduring public shame and
punishment.
Irony
Irony is a literary device in which there is a contrast between expectation and reality, often resulting
in humor or a deeper meaning. There are three main types of irony:
1. Verbal Irony: When a character says something that contrasts with what they actually mean,
often for sarcastic or humorous effect.
Example: Saying "What a beautiful day" during a thunderstorm.
2. Situation Irony: When there is a contrast between what is expected to happen and what
actually happens.
Example: A fire station burns down.
3. Dramatic Irony: When the audience or reader knows something that the characters do not,
leading to tension or suspense.
Example: In Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," the audience knows Juliet is not actually
dead, but Romeo does not, leading to tragic consequences.
Pun
A pun is a play on words that exploits the multiple meanings of a term or the similarity in sound
between two words with different meanings. Puns are often used for humor or to create clever
wordplay.
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Example: "I'm reading a book on anti-gravity. It's impossible to put down." This pun plays on the
double meaning of "put down" (to physically set something down and to stop reading or enjoying
something).
These literary devices enrich language by adding layers of meaning, humor, and complexity to
texts, engaging readers and enhancing the overall impact of the writing.
Certainly! Here are short notes with examples for each of the topics:
Literal vs. Metaphorical Meaning
• Literal Meaning: The literal meaning of a word or phrase is its straightforward or
dictionary definition, without any figurative or symbolic connotations.
Example: In the sentence "She is holding a book," the literal meaning is that the person is
physically holding a book.
• Metaphorical Meaning: The metaphorical meaning goes beyond the literal interpretation
and involves using a word or phrase to symbolize something else, often for rhetorical or
expressive purposes.
Example: "Time is money." Here, time is not literally money, but the phrase metaphorically
suggests that time is valuable and should be used wisely.
Rhetoric
• Rhetoric is the art of effective or persuasive communication, often through the use of
language devices and techniques to influence an audience or readership.
• Features:
• Ethos: Establishing credibility or authority.
• Pathos: Appealing to emotions.
• Logos: Using logic and reasoning.
• Example: Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech effectively uses rhetorical
techniques like repetition ("I have a dream") and powerful imagery to persuade and inspire
his audience toward civil rights.
Alliteration
• Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words or syllables,
creating a pleasing or rhythmic effect.
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• Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers." The repetition of the "p" sound
enhances the rhythm and musical quality of the phrase.
Pun
• A pun is a play on words that exploits multiple meanings of a term or the similarity in sound
between two words with different meanings.
• Example: "I'm reading a book on anti-gravity. It's impossible to put down." Here, "put
down" plays on the double meaning of physically setting something down and stopping
reading.
These literary devices enrich language by adding layers of meaning, creating memorable phrases,
and engaging readers through clever and creative use of words and expressions.