Literary Devices Found In Fiddler on the Roof

Literary Devices Found In Fiddler on the Roof

Literary Device	Explanation/Example	Where Found
Symbolism	-the Fiddler represents each person in Anatevka. They are trying to stay balanced, like a fiddler, using tradition. -the pots represent the life that the family will be leaving behind.	-pg. 2(Act 1: Prologue) -pg.152(Act 2: Scene 8)
Allusion	-pogrom is alluded to when the constable has a brief conversation with Tevye -the eviction of the Jewish community in Rajanka is alluded to by Avram	-pg. 53(Act 1: Scene 5) -pg. 25(Act 1: Scene 2)
Metaphor	-the Fiddler-also a metaphor. He is compared to every person in the village of Anatevka. - Hodel and Perchik dance at the wedding. It is a metaphor for what could be called courtship or dating.	-pg. 2(Act 1: Prologue) -pg. 98-99(Act 1: Scene 10)
Simile	-when Tzeitel is compared to Fruma-Sarah. -when Motel is compared to King Solomon in one of the Tradition reprises.	-pg. 60-61(Act 1: Scene 6) -pg. 67(Act 1: Scene 6)
Allegory	-Tevye is an allegory. He represents the common man. -Tevye’s bible references, specifically when he talks about the chicken.	-entire play -pg. 31(Act 1: Scene 2)
Personification	-Tevye’s horse is given human traits. Tevye says his horse becomes lame and loses his shoe deliberately so that he can rest. -Anatevka. In the song, Anatevka is given the characteristics of being underfed, overworked, and obstinate.	-pg. 20(Act 1: Scene 2) -pg. 144( Act 2: Scene 7)
Imagery	-the nightmare. Fruma-Sarah’s anger provides great imagery. You can see her sneaking in by night to choke Tzeitel. -“Miracle of Miracles”-you can see the wall falling down in Jericho and the Red Sea parting	-pg. 80-81( Act 1: Scene 7) -pg. 70( Act 1: Scene 6)
Foreshadowing	-the eviction of the Jewish communities in many Ukrainian towns and villages -the conversation between Tevye and the Constable	-pg. 25(Act 1: Scene 2) -pg. 51-54( Act 1: Scene 5)