close
test_template

Examples of Alliteration in Edwards Sermon

download print

About this sample

About this sample

close

Words: 594 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Published: Mar 13, 2024

Words: 594|Page: 1|3 min read

Published: Mar 13, 2024

Jonathan Edwards' famous sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" is a powerful piece of literature that has stood the test of time. One of the striking features of this sermon is its use of alliteration, a literary device that involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words. In this essay, we will explore the examples of alliteration in Edwards' sermon and discuss their significance in conveying his message to the audience.

The use of alliteration in "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" serves to enhance the rhetorical impact of the sermon by creating a sense of rhythm and emphasis. It also helps to grab the attention of the audience and make the sermon more memorable. By analyzing the alliteration in the sermon, we can gain a deeper understanding of Edwards' persuasive techniques and the themes he is trying to convey.

One of the most striking examples of alliteration in the sermon is found in the following passage: "The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked." Here, the repeated "h" sound in "holds," "hell," "holds," "h" abhors," and "horribly" creates a sense of urgency and dread, emphasizing the severity of the consequences of sin. This alliteration serves to evoke a visceral reaction in the audience, painting a vivid and terrifying image of the wrath of God.

In addition to creating a sense of urgency, alliteration in the sermon also serves to emphasize key themes and ideas. For example, in the passage "The bow of God's wrath is bent, and the arrow made ready on the string, and justice bends the arrow at your heart, and strains the bow, and it is nothing but the mere pleasure of God, and that of an angry God, without any promise or obligation at all, that keeps the arrow one moment from being made drunk with your blood," the repeated "b" sound in "bow," "bent," "bends," "bow," "blood," and "being" underscores the relentless and imminent nature of God's judgment. This alliteration reinforces the idea of the inevitability of divine retribution, driving home the severity of the consequences of sin.

Furthermore, the alliteration in the sermon also serves to create a sense of cohesion and coherence, linking together different ideas and images. For example, in the passage "The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked," the repeated "h" sound in "holds," "hell," "holds," "h" abhors," and "horribly" creates a sense of unity and continuity, tying together the various elements of the sermon and reinforcing the central message of divine judgment.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

In conclusion, the use of alliteration in Jonathan Edwards' sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" serves to enhance the rhetorical impact of the sermon by creating a sense of urgency, emphasizing key themes and ideas, and creating a sense of cohesion and coherence. By analyzing the examples of alliteration in the sermon, we can gain a deeper understanding of Edwards' persuasive techniques and the themes he is trying to convey. Ultimately, the alliteration in the sermon serves to underscore the severity of the consequences of sin and to drive home the urgency of repentance. As we reflect on the enduring power of this sermon, we can appreciate the skillful use of alliteration as a means of engaging the audience and conveying a powerful message that continues to resonate with readers to this day.

Image of Alex Wood
This essay was reviewed by
Alex Wood

Cite this Essay

Examples Of Alliteration In Edwards Sermon. (2024, March 13). GradesFixer. Retrieved November 2, 2024, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/examples-of-alliteration-in-edwards-sermon/
“Examples Of Alliteration In Edwards Sermon.” GradesFixer, 13 Mar. 2024, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/examples-of-alliteration-in-edwards-sermon/
Examples Of Alliteration In Edwards Sermon. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/examples-of-alliteration-in-edwards-sermon/> [Accessed 2 Nov. 2024].
Examples Of Alliteration In Edwards Sermon [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2024 Mar 13 [cited 2024 Nov 2]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/examples-of-alliteration-in-edwards-sermon/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now