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Essential Question:
Essential Question:
What effect can figurative language have on a speech?
What effect can figurative language have on a speech?
The art of rhetoric does not stop at simple turns of phrase. Great speakers and orators also rely on figurative language in order to produce compelling images or memorable thoughts in the audience.
In today's module, you will learn about the use of figurative language, and analyze it's use in an actual speech.
Key Terms
Key Terms
Figurative Language
Metaphor
Hyperbole
Allusion
What is Figurative Language?
What is Figurative Language?
First, let's start with a definition, provided by Dictionary.com: "Figurative language is language that’s intended to create an image, association, or other effect in the mind of the listener or reader that goes beyond the literal meaning or expected use of the words involved. "
In other words, figurative language is the use of words to go beyond the ordinary, literal level.
There are many different types of figurative language, and we see them used effectively in poetry, plays, fiction, and sometimes even in nonfiction writing.
Some types of figurative language include:
Simile - a specific comparison of unlike things using "like" or "as"
Example: His feet are as big as boats. Feet and boats are being compared.
Metaphor - a comparison of unlike things (without using "like" or "as").
Example: Her hair is silk.
Personification - giving human qualities, feelings, actions, or characteristics to inanimate (not living) objects.
Example: The sun stared down at the desert travelers.
Hyperbole - an intentionally exaggerated figure of speech.
Example: I had to wait for an eternity.
Allusion
Allusion
Another popular literary device, though not necessarily an example of figurative language, is allusion.
LiteraryDevices.com defines allusion as, "a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which it refers."
Allusions allow writers to draw on and build upon popular images and figures that readers are already aware of. They can add a depth of meaning and knowledge to writing in a much smaller space.
The Power of Metaphors
The Power of Metaphors
This video, from TedED, does an exceptional job illustrating the effect metaphors and similes can have on even short pieces of writing. Consider how hyperbole and personification can also be used to add greater meaning to your writing.
As you watch, think about how a speaker might use metaphors and other types of figurative language to influence their listeners.
Activity: Analyzing Figurative Language
Activity: Analyzing Figurative Language
As an example, I have selected another speech by Winston Churchill. Consider the use of figurative language such as the reference to an "Iron Curtain" across Europe (a phrase which became one of the most memorable metaphors of the 20th Century).
"The Iron Curtain"
"The Iron Curtain"
This video does an excellent job providing the historical context of Winston Churchill's "Sinews of Peace" (in which the phrase "The Iron Curtain" was first coined).
As you watch the speech, pay close attention to Churchill's diction (use of words) and his use of Figurative Language. He has incredible skill in creating memorable and striking phrases.
The Full Text of the speech is available at the America's National Churchill Museum Website.
After watching the video, and looking more carefully at the text of the speech, please write a one paragraph analysis of the use of figurative language in the speech.
After you have completed this module, you are ready to move on to a full analysis of two great speeches.
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