The Spectator’s Account of Himself : Literary devices
The Spectator’s Account of Himself is a notable literary work by Addison Steele. 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 The Spectator’s Account of Himself.
Literary devices
Figures of Speech
Metaphor: The narrator uses “Spectator” to describe himself. This means he sees himself as only an observer in life. He also calls himself a looker-on, not a player.
Simile: There is a comparison when the narrator says, “as standers-by discover plots which are apt to escape those who are in the game.” Here, he compares himself to someone just watching a game, seeing what players cannot.
Personification: Personification happens when the narrator says, “plots…are apt to escape those who are in the game.” Plots (plans) are described as if they can “escape” like people.
Irony: It is ironic that the narrator is very knowledgeable and has seen much of the world, but hardly ever speaks or joins in. He only communicates through writing and often hides from attention.
Allusion: In the opening lines, there is a quote from Horace, a famous Roman poet. The essay also mentions “William the Conqueror’s time” and “the antiquities of Egypt,” alluding to history.
Symbol: The “Spectator” is a symbol of people who observe, learn, and think quietly about the world. The Spectator’s “club” is also a symbol for discussion, learning, and watching society together.
Hyperbole: The narrator claims he “scarce uttered the quantity of a hundred words” in eight years at university. This is an exaggeration to show how little he spoke.
Paradox: The author has much knowledge and experience, but hardly speaks and keeps his life private. This is unusual but true for him.