Diction is fourth, and is “the expression of the meaning in words” which are proper and appropriate to the plot, characters, and end of the tragedy. In this category, Aristotle discusses the stylistic elements of tragedy; he is particularly interested in metaphors: “But the greatest thing by far is to have a command of metaphor; . . . it is the mark of genius, for to make good metaphors implies an eye for resemblances”
How does Sophocles use diction that is appropriate to the plot, characters, and end?
Sophocles uses diction to make the story dramatic which helps set up a suspenseful tragic ending. He also uses diction to show the characters' faults like Oedipus' want of the truth and Jocasta's want to forget the past and move on with their lives and how each character struggles with their faults. This makes the ending of the story tragic and makes the audience feel sympathetic towards Oedipus.
ReplyDeleteHe uses diction to sylistically enhance plot and character in Oedipus Rex. For instance when Sophocles uses words related to sight and light, blindness and darkness. Like when the entire city of Thebes is blind to the truth, this could be represented by the plague. It also ties to character. Oedipus could see but he was blinded, but when he blinded himself he could see
ReplyDeleteHe increases tension at times or relieves it at others. Using diction helps him to shape the story into his own, moulding it until it describes what he wants it to.
ReplyDeleteExample: "Sore buffeted, can no more lift her head,
Foundered beneath a weltering surge of blood."
Sophocles uses diction to enhance his plot line and character in Oedipus Rex, to set up the characters faults, and the lead into the tragic ending that occurs. He uses many words that relate back to sight, and pride, truth and darkness. He uses that words that makes the reader feel sorrow for Oedipus and his tragedy but also disgust at the prophecy and that it should ever had been made. He uses diction to build up the story line so that we hope that Oedipus doesn't fall to the prophecy, and to let that die as the prophecy comes true.
ReplyDeleteplz give a reasonable example of diction from oedipus rex text
ReplyDeletePlease give some textual reference
ReplyDelete