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Epistrophe (pronounced ee-PIS-truh-fee), also known as epiphora, is a rhetorical device where a word or phrase is repeated at the end of successive clauses, sentences, or lines. It's the opposite of anaphora, which is the repetition at the beginning.
Explanation of Epistrophe:
Explanation of Epistrophe:
The primary purpose of epistrophe is to create emphasis, rhythm, and emotional impact. By repeating the same ending, the speaker or writer draws attention to that particular word or idea, making it resonate with the audience.
Famous Examples of Epistrophe:
Famous Examples of Epistrophe:
Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address:
"But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address:
"But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate—we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath (Tom Joad's speech):
John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath (Tom Joad's speech):
"Wherever they's a fight so hungry people can eat, I'll be there. Wherever they's a cop beatin' up a guy, I'll be there... An' when our folks eat the stuff they raise an' live in the houses they build, why, I'll be there."
"Wherever they's a fight so hungry people can eat, I'll be there. Wherever they's a cop beatin' up a guy, I'll be there... An' when our folks eat the stuff they raise an' live in the houses they build, why, I'll be there."
The repeated "I'll be there" emphasizes Tom's commitment to social justice and solidarity with the downtrodden.
The repeated "I'll be there" emphasizes Tom's commitment to social justice and solidarity with the downtrodden.
Epistrophe is a versatile device that can be used to achieve a wide range of effects, from solemnity and inspiration to subtle irony and humor, by strategically placing emphasis on the concluding words of a series.
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