Which Quote Reveals The Author's Point Of View
When reading a piece of literature, it is essential to understand the author's point of view. The author's point of view is their perspective on a particular topic or idea. This perspective can be revealed through various literary elements, such as character development, plot, and dialogue.
One of the most effective ways to identify an author's point of view is through quotes. Quotes can provide insight into the author's beliefs, values, and attitudes towards a particular subject. In this article, we will explore which quotes reveal the author's point of view and how to interpret them.
Character Dialogue
Character dialogue is one of the most significant ways to identify an author's point of view. When a character speaks, they are essentially voicing the author's thoughts and opinions. For example, in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, the character Tom Buchanan states:
"Civilization's going to pieces," broke out Tom violently. "I've gotten to be a terrible pessimist about things. Have you read 'The Rise of the Colored Empires' by this man Goddard?"
Tom's dialogue reveals the author's point of view on the decline of civilization and his pessimistic outlook on society. This quote shows how Fitzgerald felt about the world during the Jazz Age.
Author's Description
Another way to identify an author's point of view is through their descriptions. The author may use descriptive language to reveal their perspective on a particular subject. For example, in Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, the author describes the character of Atticus Finch:
"He was nearly fifty. When Jem and I asked him why he was so old, he said he got started late, which we felt reflected upon his abilities and manliness. He was much older than the parents of our school contemporaries, and there was nothing Jem or I could say about him when our classmates said, "My father—"
The author's description of Atticus Finch reveals her admiration for the character. Through her description, we can understand the author's point of view on the importance of morality and justice.
Author's Tone
The author's tone is another way to identify their point of view. The tone is the author's attitude towards a particular subject. For example, in George Orwell's Animal Farm, the author's tone towards the pigs changes throughout the novel. At first, the author describes the pigs in a positive light, but as the story progresses, the author's tone becomes increasingly negative:
"The pigs did not actually work, but directed and supervised the others. With their superior knowledge, it was natural that they should assume the leadership."
The author's tone reveals his point of view on the corrupting influence of power and the dangers of totalitarianism.
Author's Imagery
Another way to identify an author's point of view is through their imagery. Imagery is the use of descriptive language to create a mental picture in the reader's mind. For example, in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the author uses imagery to describe the beauty of Juliet:
"O, she doth teach the torches to burn bright! It seems she hangs upon the cheek of night As a rich jewel in an Ethiope's ear— Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear!"
The author's use of imagery reveals his point of view on the power of love and beauty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to identify an author's point of view. Quotes can reveal the author's beliefs, values, and attitudes towards a particular subject. By analyzing the author's character dialogue, descriptions, tone, and imagery, we can gain insight into their perspective. Understanding the author's point of view is essential for analyzing literature and gaining a deeper appreciation of the writer's craft.