Dialectical Terms Review

1. British Literature Dialectical Terms Review

2. Diction • The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing • Consider connotation – different words are used in different contexts or to convey a particular tone • strong-willed vs. pig-headed • screw-up vs. oversight • Ruminated vs. thought

3. Syntax • The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language • Authors may craft a sentence to convey a particular tone, rhythm, or sound effect • “What light from yonder window breaks?” • “What light breaks from yonder window?”

4. Structure • In terms of dialectical study, this refers to the composition of the text as a whole (rather than individual sentences, which is syntax) • Consider shape, spacing, width, stanzas, repetition • In William Blake’s “The Tyger,” the phrase “Could frame thy fearful symmetry” is repeated—with a key word changed—at the end of the poem.

5. Punctuation • Remember that every punctuation mark is deliberately placed • Consider tone, rhythm, sound, pace • “Let’s eat, Grandma!” • “Let’s eat Grandma!” • “Let’s eat…Grandma?” Let’s not forget Dear John!

6. Dear John: I want a man who knows what love is all about. You are generous, kind, thoughtful. People who are not like you admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me for other men. I yearn for you. I have no feelings whatsoever when we’re apart. I can be forever happy. Will you let me be yours? Gloria

7. Dear John: I want a man who knows what love is. All about you are generous, kind, thoughtful people, who are not like you. Admit to being useless and inferior. You have ruined me. For other men, I yearn. For you, I have no feelings whatsoever. When we’re apart, I can be forever happy. Will you let me be? Yours, Gloria

8. Figurative Language • The use of nonliteral language to describe a literal event • Consider the following devices: • Simile • Metaphor • Alliteration • Personification • Hyperbole • Allusions • Sound Devices