In our speech there are many words with which we describe items, our feelings and in general everything surrounds us. Velvet voice, heavy solution, pink dawn ... This list of adjectives can be continued to infinity. And in the context of stylistic figures, these adjectives are called epithets.
Definition of epithet
In a wide range of epitheet - any definition to the name noun. Cozy room, a multi-storey house, a heartbreaking cry - all these adjectives are epithets. However, in the theory of literature, it is customary to be epithets only those definitions that give the word additional imagery, new, non-standard shades. If we take into account this definition, then the aforementioned adjectives will not be considered epithets.
Types of epithets
Epitts can be classified according to several criteria, primarily it is a method of designation and stylistic functions.
Depending on the method of designation distinguish:
- epithets with direct value;
- epitts with a portable value.
Epitts that have a direct value give a direct, real definition, while epithets with indirect values \u200b\u200bare based on associations and an abstract appearance of the described phenomenon or subject.
For example, adjective in the phrase "steel doors" is an epithet with a direct value, and in the "steel nerves" has a figurative value.
Depending on the functions distinguish:
- fine epithets;
- Emotional epithets.
Fine epithets give an estimate of the subject or phenomenon based on specific data, such as size, shape, color, condition, and the like. With their help, you can present well what is described.
In turn, emotional epithets are based on personal judgments of the speaker and transmit only its assessment of a certain object or phenomenon.
Epitic functions
Of course, epithets found their use in artwork. They give texts some emotionality, uniqueness, as well as emphasize the special features of something.
However, it is mistaken to assume that epithets are widely and universally used in fiction. They are found in almost all functional speech styles. Without epithets, do not do in scientific texts with a descriptive character. For example, in one encyclopedia, sea turtles are described as follows: "The family of skulls, which combines large marine and oceanic turtles with a streamlined heart-shaped or oval sheath, coated with horny shields, and non-tag-limbs. A big head is not removed under the shell. " In these two sentences, almost ten epithets are used.
Often use epithets and in journalistic texts, the target is the same - or describe a phenomenon or give it an assessment.
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