Rhetorical analysis of Toni Morrison’s song of Solomon
Compose a piece of literary analysis on Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon.
- How does the author’s choice of words and/or syntax support the meaning of the text? Here, think about the way different characters speak, the vocabulary the author chooses to use, or the structure of the language in the text.
- What is the role of the narrator in the text? Is the narrator reliable? How does the narrator influence the reader and the action of reading?
- Identify a repeated and dominant symbol or conceit in the text. How does the author use the symbol or conceit to enhance the message or theme of the text?
- How does a character’s social role affect their role and/or function within the text?
- How do specific conflicts between characters emphasize and inform the theme and/or message of the text?
- What is the plot climax? (Note: this is dependent on whose narrative is the dominant narrative. You should discuss how characters’ choices led to the plot climax through the rising action and what the consequences are through the falling action and denouement.)
- Discuss moments of anagnorisis and peripeteia in the text and their contribution to theme or message.
- Discuss the praise or blame of a character within the text. Evaluate their decisions and choices throughout the narrative. What virtue or vice are they responsible for?
- Evaluate the author’s use of schemes and tropes throughout the text. How does it influence the reading and message of the text?