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Literary Devices
Definition of Alliteration
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought the box of bricks to... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the “b” sound in: “Bob brought... read full definition
Alliteration is a figure of speech in which the same sound repeats in a group of words, such as the... read full definition
Alliteration
Explanation and Analysis—Character Names:
Several prominent names in Nicholas Nickleby are alliterative: Nicholas Nickleby, Charles Cheeryble, Newman Noggs. Notably, these three characters choose to ally themselves against Ralph and his various cronies (holding to their principles and moral values). The alliterative aspect of these characters' names perhaps has a role in endearing them to readers. Authors of children's literature often use alliteration to make characters "cuter" or more accessible to younger readers (i.e. Tony the Tiger, Big Bird). While Dickens' intended audience for Nicholas Nickleby mainly consists of adults, the prolific author uses alliterative naming in many of his literary works as a "shortcut" to indicate that a character is trustworthy, has good intentions, or is the story's hero.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the names of many villainous characters in Nicholas Nickleby sound unappealing. "Squeers" and "Snawley" remind one of words like "snarl," "sneer," "crawl," and "squeamish," among others. While the heroic characters' alliterative names recall childhood innocence and simple, upright morality, Squeers and Snawley's names remind readers of unsavory sentiments. This device is as much tactile as it is syntactic. The villains' names sound and feel slimy, mirroring the sliminess of their personalities. Through the use of alliteration, Dickens effectively draws the moral line between his characters.
