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Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Key Examples in Tess of the d'Urbervilles
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Durbeyfield's Lineage:
During the course of Chapter 1, Parson Trigham informs Jack Durbeyfield that he is part of the revered D'Urberville line. Mr. Durbeyfield responds to this revelation with a characteristic idiom:
"Daze my eyes, and isn't there?" said Durbeyfield. "And here have I been knocking about, year after year, from pillar to post, as if I was no more than the commonest feller in the parish . . . "
Chapter 34
Explanation and Analysis—Fine Feathers:
In Chapter 34, the narrator uses an idiom to describe Tess, who is dressed up in Angel’s godmother’s jewels:
Unlock with LitCharts A+As everybody knows, fine feathers make fine birds; a peasant girl but very moderately prepossessing to the casual observer in her simple condition and attire, will bloom as an amazing beauty if clothed as a woman of fashion with the aids that Art can render; while the beauty of the midnight crush would often cut but a sorry figure if placed inside the field-woman’s wrapper upon a monotonous acreage of turnips on a dull day.
Related Themes:
