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Definition of Simile
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like" or "as," but can also... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often... read full definition
Act 1, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—An Old Courtier:
In Act 1, Scene 1, Parolles uses two similes, and employs visual and tactile imagery to criticize the concept of virginity. He states, teasing Helen, that:
Virginity, like an old courtier, wears her cap out of
fashion, richly suited but unsuitable [...]And your virginity, your old virginity, is like one of our French withered pears: it looks ill, it eats dryly.
Related Themes:
Act 1, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—The Sun's Worshipper:
In Act 1, Scene 3, Helen uses a metaphor invoking the sun and personification to describe her unrequited love for Bertram:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Thus, Indian-like,
Religious in mine error, I adore
The sun that looks upon his worshipper
But knows of him no more.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Double-Meaning Prophesier:
Shakespeare utilizes dramatic irony and simile in Bertram’s dialogue as he talks to soldiers about Parolles. Bertram states:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I mean the business is not ended as fearing to hear of it hereafter. But shall we have this dialogue between the Fool and the Soldier? [...] He has deceived me like a double-meaning prophesier.
Related Themes:
