Epistrophe

1. By: Breanna Kornatowski AP Language 2nd hour Epistrophe

2. Definition • Epistrophe: repetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive clauses. • Classified as a “scheme of repetition” • Sets up a pronounced rhythm • Gives the writing a special emphasis since it repeats the word • Also gives emphasis because it is placed at the ends of successive clauses, so it sticks in one’s head.

3. “My bond!” Shylock: I’ll have my bond! Speak not against my bond! I have sworn an oath that I will have my bond! -The Merchant of Venice, III, iii, 3-4 This example shares the same grouping of the words “my bond” at the end of each sentence. Using this creates an emphasis on the character’s “bond” and since the word is at the end of all of the sentences, it adds even more of an emphasis.

4. “Ice Cream” “I scream, you scream, we all scream, for ice cream!” This example shows the use of an epistrophe to make the statement catchy, but also emphasize that the one saying it is screaming for ice cream.

5. “Ring on it” “If you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it If you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it Don’t be mad once you see that ring on it If you liked it, then you should have put a ring on it.” -Single Ladies, Beyonce This example shows the use of the words “ring on it” in a song so that it not only rhymes, but gets the point across as well. http://www.lyrics.com/single-ladies-lyrics-beyonc.html