Metaphysical Conceit as a Tool in Interpretation of Literature

1. Metaphysical Conceit as a Tool in Interpretation of Literature By Annie and Nadia 2/ /03 Per. 6 Language Arts

2. Definition of Metaphysical Conceit The denotative meaning of the term (denotative meaning the official definition) is �a bigger conceit; an extremely long-lasting (relative to the piece in question) and elaborate comparison of two different objects The connotative meanings (what the dictionary has to say about the words in the term) are: Metaphysical: beyond the senses Conceit: flagrant pompousness, over-estimation of oneself

3. History of Metaphysical Conceit This technique is characteristic of 17th century writers with influences like John Donne. It experienced a rebirth in the 20th century with a revival of metaphysical poetry/poets. This technique uses a wide range of knowledge, comparing everything from the commonplace to the esoteric (outer-worldly), with elaborate rationalization.

4. Usage of Metaphysical Conceit A few texts that use metaphysical conceit are: The Raven The raven reoccurs throughout the poem, dominating most of the stanzas�it�s eventually revealed to symbolize death Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore,"Though thy crest be shorn and shaven thou," I said, "art sure no craven,Ghastly, grim, and ancient raven, wandering from the nightly shore.Tell me what the lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore." Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."

5. Works featuring metaphysical conceit �the laboring interests and the toilers everywhere, we will answer their demand for a gold standard by saying to them: You shall not press down upon the brow of labor this crown of thorns, you shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold. � -Jenning�s Cross of Gold Speech This is a section of prose from a persuasive political speech. The metaphor of the cross of gold is alluded to many times within the speech and summarized in this final paragraph.

6. Purposes and Effects of Metaphysical Conceit Metaphysical conceit yields its effects by mystifying and therefore drawing the reader into (providing interest in) the in-depth description of this one said object (i.e. the raven itself), and then peaking when, through elaboration, the reader understands what this object represents as a concept (i.e. the raven is actually death). The purpose of metaphysical conceit is to gain the audience�s understanding of a complex idea using a relatable object, and making points by elaborating on both simultaneously. (i.e. the raven�s repeated interruptions and increasing eeriness eventually reveal it as death.

7. Suggested Present and Future Uses of Metaphysical Conceit Recommended situations of using metaphysical conceit: When you�re trying to carry a symbol to represent something you want the reader to understand When carrying symbolism If the poem is themed with a single object

8. Quiz on Metaphysical Conceit Define �metaphysical conceit.� An extremely long-running elaborate metaphor A multi-faceted simile A comparison of 2 unlike things using �like� or �as� Exaggeration

9. Quiz (continued) 2. Aside from being popular in this century, in what century was metaphysical conceit also popular? a. 12th b. 28th c. 17th d. 19th

10. Quiz (continued) 3. For what purpose would an author use metaphysical conceit? a. to make a complex theme more understandable/meaningful to the reader by drawing parallels in a long metaphor b. to make a poem shorter c. to incorporate rhyme d. to maintain rhythm

11. Quiz (continued) 4. What effect does metaphysical conceit have on the reader? a. the reader gains a stronger understanding of the poem�s message by drawing conclusions based on the comparison b. the reader is amused c. the reader loses sight of the underlying objectives and zeroes in on the obvious d. the reader is compelled to read the poem again

12. Quiz (continued) 5. Which of the following would qualify as a metaphysical conceit? a. a poem which is centered around the comparison of the sky to a lake b. an essay on Lake Michigan c. a poem which compares the sky to many different objects d. a short story with a line of similes

13. Works Cited