1. It’s what and how you say it…
DICTION
It’s what and how you say it…

2. DICTION formal or informal
Analysis of diction in literature reveals much about how a passage establishes tone and characterization.
For example, a preponderance of verbs related to physical movement in a story suggests a character who is active while a preponderance of verbs related to states of mind helps to portray the way a character feels about himself. (introspection)

3. DICTION…
Diction depends on a writer’s subject, purpose, and audience. Some words, for example, are suited to informal conversations but are inappropriate In formal speech or writing. Diction has a powerful effect on the tone of a piece of writing

4. DICTION An author carefully chooses their words.
Let’s look at Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

5. MACBETH
In Act 2, Scene 2, Macbeth confides in Lady Macbeth after the murder of Duncan: But wherefore could not I pronounce "Amen"? I had most need of blessing, and "Amen" Stuck in my throat.

6. Macbeth is pure evil as are his deeds. He regrets his actions.
WHAT DOES THIS TELL US?
Macbeth is pure evil as are his deeds.
He regrets his actions.
He knows he is wrong.

7. THE PROPHECIES
In Act 4 Scene 1, he returns to the three witches, desiring more information regarding his fortune. They in turn assure him that "none of woman born shall harm Macbeth." Invincible power! Macbeth forgets the other two prophecies:

8. Other prophecies..
Macbeth! Macbeth! Macbeth! Beware Macduff, Beware the Thane of Fife... and: Be lion-mettled, proud, and take no care Who chafes, who frets, or where conspirers are. Macbeth shall never vanquished beuntil Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane Hill Shall come against him.

9. The Witches
Blinded by his ambition, Macbeth does not listen to the warnings of Banquo. He advised Macbeth that not all that evil witches tell are good even if it seems so. He thinks he’s invincible. Shakespeare is careful in his word choice choosing riddles from the evil sisters to show how deceptive and truly evil they are.

10. DICTION Diction lets us get to know the characters (characterization)
Diction also helps set tone (how the author feels about a topic).
How did Shakespeare feel about blind ambition? How does that lead to theme?