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Literary Devices
Definition of Alliteration
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought the box of bricks to... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the... read full definition
Key Examples in A Midsummer Night's Dream
Act 1, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis:
In Act 1, Scene 1, Lysander uses alliteration to assert his devotion to Hermia. He, Hermia, and Lysander have been brought before the Duke of Athens because Hermia is refusing to acquiesce to her father’s will. She wishes to follow her heart and marry Lysander over Demetrius, the man her father has chosen for her. Lysander is quiet through most of the initial conflict. But when the opportunity comes to plead his case before the Duke, he asserts his legitimacy. He is similar enough in rank and honor to Demetrius. Then, he adds the most important factor:
And (which is more than all these boasts can be)
I am beloved of beauteous Hermia.
Why should not I then prosecute my right?
Related Themes:
Act 5, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis:
In Act 5, Scene 1, Quince and the other players perform at the triple wedding. The recently betrothed lovers—Hippolyta and Theseus, Demetrius and Helena, and Lysander and Hermia—are gathered to witness the spectacle of the player’s performance. As he recites the prologue to the humorous play, Quince uses alliteration to expand upon the violence to follow. He says:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Whereat, with blade, with bloody blameful blade,
He bravely broached his boiling bloody breast.
Related Themes:
