The Rover

by Aphra Behn

The Rover: Imagery 1 key example

Definition of Imagery

Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines from Robert Frost's poem "After Apple-Picking" contain imagery that engages... read full definition
Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines from Robert Frost's poem "After... read full definition
Imagery, in any sort of writing, refers to descriptive language that engages the human senses. For instance, the following lines... read full definition
Act 3, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Hellena Unmasked:

In the first scene of Act III, Willmore finally succeeds in getting Hellena to reveal her face. The two have been flirting throughout the play, but she has never taken her mask off before now. As she removes her mask, Willmore describes her face in detail, which both serves to underline his attraction to her and give the audience the chance to visualize her face. 

Oh the charms of those sprightly black eyes! that strangely fair face! full of smiles and dimples! those soft round melting cherry lips! and small even white teeth! not to be expressed but silently adored! – oh, one look more! and strike me dumb, or I shall repeat nothing else till I’m mad.