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Logos
Definition of Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor can be stated explicitly, as... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other. The comparison in a metaphor... read full definition
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is the other... read full definition
Book 1
Explanation and Analysis—Politics as Entertainment:
Towards the end of Book One, More's character debates the merits of philosophers interfering in politics, using a metaphor that presents politics as a form of entertainment:
"When you mix in alien elements, even if they are superior, you wreck the play; do the best you can in the play that's actually in hand, and don't upset it because you happen to have thought of one that might be more entertaining. That's exactly how things are in public affairs and in the councils of princes . . . . you mustn't abandon ship simply because you can't direct the winds."
Related Themes:
Explanation and Analysis—Capitalism as Sickness:
In Book One, Raphael uses a metaphor in his argument against inequitable wealth distribution, equating capitalism to a kind of sickness:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"[Certain laws] might . . . reduce and mitigate [the evils of unfair wealth distribution] the same way as a regular application of poultices can relieve the bodies of the incurably sick, but there is absolutely no hope of curing them and restoring good order as long as property remains private. Rather, as you strive to cure one part, you aggravate the sickness in others: so, by mutual exchange, the healing of one causes the disease in another, since you can't give something to one person without taking it away from someone else."
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Book 2: Of the Travelling of the Utopians
Explanation and Analysis—The Mirage of Nobility:
Raphael describes Utopian social attitudes in Book Two, using an apt metaphor to outline the perception of certain vices in this society:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"Included in the mirage of counterfeit pleasures are those who cheerfully rave and flatter themselves with the reputation of nobility, congratulating themselves on their descent from a long line of wealthy ancestors."
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Explanation and Analysis—Health as a Battle:
Further exploring Utopian moral philosophy in Book Two, Raphael uses a metaphor to depict physical health as a battle, of which the ultimate victory is pleasure:
Unlock with LitCharts A+"What happens when we eat, [the Utopians] say, is that health, which has begun to falter, takes on food as its ally in the fight against hunger. While our health gradually recovers strength, the process of regaining its customary vigour generates that pleasure by which we are refreshed. And if health takes such pleasure in the fight, won't it rejoice once victory is achieved? When it has eventually recovered its original strength—which was the whole point of the exercise—will it immediately slump into a stupor and fail to recognize and embrace its own good?
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