Troilus and Criseyde : Literary devices
Troilus and Criseyde is a notable literary work by Geoffrey Chaucer. 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, to various questions of Troilus and Criseyde.
Literary devices
Dramatic Irony: The audience knows that Criseyde will eventually betray Troilus, even while the characters hope for a different outcome.
Symbols
Symbolism/Symbols: The brooch that Criseyde gives to Troilus symbolizes their love and commitment. Later, when Criseyde gives the brooch to Diomede, it symbolizes her betrayal.
The Temple of Palladium: The temple stands for fate and irony. Troilus mocks lovers here but later falls deeply in love.
Black Clothing: Criseyde wears black clothes to show sadness for her father’s betrayal. It also hints at future sorrow.
The Brooch: Symbol of Love. Later, it shows the betrayal
The Chivalrous Knight: Brave soldiers of that time
The Eagle: Troilus
The Boar: Diomedes
The Letter: The Courtly Love
The Greek Camp: Danger and Separation
Figures of Speech
Allusion: Chaucer frequently alludes to Greek and Roman mythology, such as the reference to Cupid, Venus, and the Furies, to deepen the thematic layers of the story.
Irony: Troilus mocks other lovers in the temple. But he falls deeply in love with Criseyde shortly. This is an example of situational irony, where the outcome is opposite to what was expected.
Imagery: Chaucer uses rich visual imagery to describe Criseyde’s beauty and Troilus’s longing. For instance, Criseyde’s appearance is described in great detail, focusing on her black mourning dress, which reflects her inner sorrow.
Personification: Fortune is personified throughout the poem as a controlling force and as the Antagonist.
Simile: Troilus is compared to Mars, the god of war, when Criseyde sees him riding through the city, emphasizing his strength and heroism.