Epithet
A descriptive literary device that is typically used to add a description to a person, and it is usually attached to that person’s name or takes the place of the name. While the definition of epithet has recently been associated with a negative connotation, it is usually a glorification of one and what they have accomplished.
EXAMPLE FROM MACBETH
In William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, calling Macbeth the Thane of Cawdor is an example of an epithet.
“Turn hell-hound, turn” - Act 5 Scene 8
FUNCTION
Calling Macbeth the Thane of Cawdor announces who Macbeth is and gives him a sense of authority and power. “Turn hell-hound, turn” was a quote from Macduff to Macbeth, which shows just how Macduff felt about Macbeth. An Epithet is used to add descriptive adjectives or phrases to the title of a person in order to help portray their persona. It can sometimes be used to make someone more prominent than they really are or to make them seem more evil.
Harry Potter, the boy who lived. Many historical figures also have epithets, such as Alexander the Great, Louis the Pious, and Richard the Lionhearted.
ORIGINAL MNEMONIC
Epithet, the king of literature, thane of poetry,
Epithet, the king of literature, thane of poetry,
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