"Don Juan Canto-I" Literary Devices
Figures of Speech
Irony: Byron says the opposite of what he really means, often to mock. Example: "A real husband always is suspicious." He mocks jealous husbands.Metaphor: Comparing without using "like" or "as". Example: "Here is the empire of thy perfect bliss." Love is called an empire of happiness.
Personification: Giving human qualities to non-human things. Example: "Oh Love! in such a wilderness as this..." Love is spoken to like a person.
Imagery: Creates pictures in the reader’s mind. Example: "Young Juan now was sixteen years of age, Tall, handsome, slender, but well knit." This helps us see Don Juan's looks: young, tall, and attractive.
Symbols:
The Sea: The sea symbolizes freedom and escape. Example: Don Juan is sent away on a ship, escaping his troubles. It also represents uncertainty and adventure.The Closet: The closet symbolizes secrecy and hidden actions. Example: Don Juan hides in the closet when Julia's husband arrives. It represents the hidden nature of their love.
The Ship: The ship is a symbol of journey and change. Example: Don Juan leaves home, starting a new life. It represents transition and the beginning of a new chapter.
Julia’s Glove: Julia’s glove symbolizes her love and the personal nature of their affair. Example: Don Juan is given Julia’s glove as a token of her affection. It shows intimacy and the personal connection between them.
The Mirror: The mirror symbolizes reflection and self-awareness. Example: Characters often look into mirrors to reflect on their feelings. It represents identity and self-perception.
Literary Terms
Satire: He criticizes love, marriage, and society using humor. Example: "I want a hero: an uncommon want." Here, he makes fun of traditional heroic poems.