Epanalepsis

Definition

Epanalepsis is a rhetorical device that involves repeating the initial word or phrase of a clause or sentence at the end of that same clause or sentence. This technique emphasizes the importance of the repeated phrase, creating a sense of closure or circularity in the argument. In Vergil's Aeneid, particularly in Book 1, Lines 494–578, this device can be seen in how it adds depth to character emotions and thematic elements, often highlighting key ideas or sentiments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epanalepsis is particularly effective in highlighting emotional intensity, as seen when characters express their deepest feelings.
2. In the context of Vergil's work, this device can emphasize themes of fate and destiny, reinforcing the inevitability of events.
3. The use of epanalepsis contributes to the poetic rhythm of the Aeneid, enhancing its musicality and memorability.
4. Epanalepsis often serves as a rhetorical tool to draw attention to key concepts, urging readers to reflect on their significance.
5. Vergil's strategic use of this device also aids in character development, revealing their internal struggles and motivations through repetitive phrases.

Review Questions

• How does Vergil's use of epanalepsis enhance the emotional impact of characters in Book 1?
  • Vergil's use of epanalepsis intensifies the emotional depth of characters by emphasizing their feelings through repetition. For example, when a character expresses despair or longing, repeating a significant phrase at both the beginning and end creates a powerful resonance that draws readers into their emotional turmoil. This technique allows readers to grasp the weight of their experiences, making their struggles more relatable and poignant.
• Discuss how epanalepsis contributes to the thematic development in lines 494–578 of the Aeneid.
  • In lines 494–578, epanalepsis is employed to underscore major themes such as fate and loss. By repeating key phrases related to these themes, Vergil reinforces their significance within the narrative. This repetition creates a sense of inevitability around the characters' destinies, prompting readers to reflect on how these themes shape their journeys. The circularity achieved through epanalepsis serves to highlight how past events continue to influence present circumstances.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of epanalepsis as a rhetorical device in conveying Vergil's overall message in the Aeneid.
  • Epanalepsis is an effective rhetorical device that allows Vergil to convey complex themes with clarity and emphasis. By repeating crucial phrases, he not only enhances emotional resonance but also crafts a cohesive narrative that interlinks character motivations with broader themes such as fate and struggle. This technique enriches the text's poetic quality while inviting deeper contemplation on its central messages, ultimately creating a lasting impact on readers as they engage with the epic's moral and philosophical questions.

Related terms

Anaphora:

A rhetorical figure involving the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.

Chiasmus: A rhetorical figure in which words, grammatical constructions, or concepts are repeated in reverse order.

Alliteration:

The repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely positioned words to create rhythm and enhance meaning.