Periphrasis is a literary device that involves using several words to describe or refer to something, rather than using a single, more straightforward word. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to add emphasis, to create a more descriptive or evocative phrase, or to convey a sense of formality or respect. In literature, periphrasis is often used to add depth and complexity to a character's speech or to the overall tone of a piece of writing.
One example of periphrasis in literature can be found in William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." In Act II, Scene 2, the character Polonius gives a long-winded and circuitous speech to his son Laertes, in which he advises him on how to behave while abroad. Polonius begins by saying, "Give thy thoughts no tongue, nor any unproportioned thought his act. Be thou familiar, but by no means vulgar. Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried, grapple them to thy soul with hoops of steel; but do not dull thy palm with entertainment of each new-hatched, unfledged comrade."
In this passage, Polonius uses periphrasis to convey his advice to Laertes in a formal and elaborate manner. Rather than simply saying "don't speak rashly or associate with questionable people," he uses a series of elaborate phrases and metaphors to convey his meaning. This use of periphrasis adds to the sense of formality and grandiosity in Polonius's speech, and helps to establish his character as a pompous and verbose individual.
Another example of periphrasis in literature can be found in the novel "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen. In this novel, the character Elizabeth Bennett frequently uses periphrasis to express her thoughts and feelings in a more descriptive and evocative manner. For example, when describing the character Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth says, "He is not at all liked in Hertfordshire. Every body dislikes him."
In this passage, Elizabeth uses periphrasis to convey her dislike for Mr. Darcy in a more subtle and nuanced way. Rather than simply saying "I hate Mr. Darcy," she uses several words and phrases to describe her feelings, adding depth and complexity to her character and her relationships with others.
Periphrasis can also be used to add emphasis to a character's words or to convey a sense of importance or grandiosity. In the novel "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville, the character Ishmael frequently uses periphrasis to describe the sea and its inhabitants. For example, he says, "There is a wonderful infinity in the ocean's terrible jaws."
In this passage, Ishmael uses periphrasis to add emphasis and drama to his description of the sea. Rather than simply saying "the sea is big and dangerous," he uses a series of evocative words and phrases to convey the vastness and power of the ocean. This use of periphrasis helps to create a sense of awe and mystery in the novel, and adds to the overall tone and atmosphere of the story.
Overall, periphrasis is a useful and effective literary device that can be used to add depth, complexity, and emphasis to a character's speech or to the overall tone of a piece of literature. By using several words to describe or refer to something, writers can create more descriptive and evocative phrases, and convey a sense of formality, grandiosity, or importance.
