Previous
Hyperbole
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 Volpone
Act 4, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—The Tears of a Hyena:
In Act 4, Scene 6, Lady Would-Be arrives at the courthouse and berates Celia for testifying against Volpone. She uses both metaphor and idiom to belittle Celia's character:
Ay, This same is she.
Out, thou chameleon harlot! Now thine eyes
Vie tears with the hyena. Dar’st thou look
Upon my wrongèd face? — I cry your pardons.
I fear I have forgettingly transgressed
Against the dignity of the court—
Related Themes:
Act 5, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Volpone's Fated Threads:
In Act 5, Scene 3, Mosca and Volpone continue to toy with the suitors by faking Volpone's death. As Mosca begins to read the lengthy will without naming any of the suitors as an heir, Lady Would-Be bursts into the room, using an idiom to inquire about Volpone's fate:
Unlock with LitCharts A+[Enter Lady Would-Be.]
Lady Would-Be: Mosca!
Is his thread spun?Mosca: Eight chests of linen—
