Leda and the Swan : Literary devices
Leda and the Swan is a notable literary work by William Butler Yeats. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Leda and the Swan.
Literary devices
Figures of Speech:
- Allusion: The poem refers to the Greek myth of Leda and Zeus.
- Imagery/Image: Strong pictures are created through words, like the swan’s wings and Leda’s helplessness.
- Symbolism: The swan symbolizes Zeus and divine power; Leda represents human weakness.
- Metaphor: The violent act stands for larger events like the fall of Troy.
- Personification: The swan is given human-like power and feelings.
Symbols:
- The Swan: Zeus, the God, in the form of a swan. It shows power and force.
- Leda: A symbol of weakness and helplessness. She represents humans who are overpowered by gods or fate.
- The Broken Wall and Burning Roof: These show destruction. They represent the fall of Troy, which happened because of Helen.
- Agamemnon’s Death: This shows the continuing violence and tragedy that followed after the Trojan War.
Literary Terms:
- Sonnet: The poem is a 14-line sonnet, a type of poem.
Moral Lesson:
- Power can cause great harm.
