IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 13 No. 1 (2025): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

An Analysis of Figurative Language in William Shakespeare’s Sonnets

Annisafitri , Advenda Gantaruni (Unknown)
Ekawati, Anita Dewi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Jul 2025

Abstract

This research explores the use of figurative language in William Shakespeare's sonnets through an analysis. In this study, there is a comprehensive analysis of six selected sonnets, namely: Sonnet 127, Sonnet 130, Sonnet 131, Sonnet 132, Sonnet 133, and Sonnet 139. The purpose of this study is to explore how figurative language is used in William Shakespeare's sonnets by using Perrine's theory and to reveal the techniques used by Shakespeare to enrich his poems. The research method used was descriptive qualitative, identifying and categorizing 53 examples of figurative language in the selected sonnets. The technique of data collection is by reading the sonnets thoroughly, noting in detail the figurative language present and connecting with the theory. Ten of Perrine's twelve theories were found, namely simile, metaphor, personification, synecdoche, metonymy, symbol, hyperbole, irony, paradox, and apostrophe. The findings of this study show the dominant use of metaphor and personification, complemented using synecdoche, metonymy, hyperbole, and other devices. The way Shakespeare uses figurative language makes his poems seem more vivid and evokes deep emotions, especially for the readers. Shakespeare's poetry and figurative language have an enduring power in literature and offer valuable insights to be analyzed more deeply.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...