Introduction
Encomium is a literary device used to offer high praise for a person, place, thing, or event. This form of writing often appears in speeches, poetry, and prose to celebrate the virtues and achievements of its subject. Encomium is rooted in ancient Greek and Roman traditions where it was used in public orations to honor heroes, gods, and significant accomplishments.
Pronunciation
en-KOH-mee-um
How Writers Use Encomium
Writers use encomium to:
- Celebrate Achievements: Highlight the accomplishments and virtues of an individual or group.
- Inspire and Motivate: Encourage others by showcasing exemplary behavior and successes.
- Create Emotional Impact: Evoke positive emotions and admiration in the audience.
- Commemorate Events: Mark significant events or milestones with appropriate praise.
- Enhance Characterization: Provide depth to characters by showcasing their admirable qualities.
Types of Encomium
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Encomium | Praise directed at an individual for their virtues or achievements. | A speech honoring a retiree’s career. |
| Event Encomium | Praise focused on a significant event or milestone. | Celebrating a nation’s independence day. |
| Object Encomium | Praise for an inanimate object or concept. | Describing the beauty and significance of a historic monument. |
| Group Encomium | Praise for a collective group for their achievements. | Commending a team for winning a championship. |
| Historical Encomium | Praise directed at a historical figure or event. | Honoring a famous leader in a history book. |
Rules of Encomium
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Authenticity | Ensure the praise is genuine and heartfelt. |
| Specificity | Highlight specific qualities or achievements rather than general praise. |
| Contextual Relevance | Align the encomium with the context in which it is delivered. |
| Balanced Tone | Maintain a respectful and balanced tone without excessive flattery. |
| Audience Awareness | Consider the audience’s perspective and values when crafting the praise. |
Examples of Encomium in Different Media
Encomium in Literature
| Title | Author | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Ode to a Nightingale | John Keats | Keats praises the nightingale’s song and its impact on his emotions. |
| The Great Gatsby | F. Scott Fitzgerald | Nick Carraway’s admiration for Gatsby’s hopeful nature. |
| Hamlet | William Shakespeare | Hamlet’s encomium for his father, King Hamlet. |
Encomium in Children’s Books
| Title | Author | Example |
| Charlotte’s Web | E.B. White | Wilbur’s praise for Charlotte’s intelligence and kindness. |
| Matilda | Roald Dahl | Miss Honey’s encomium for Matilda’s brilliance and courage. |
| Winnie-the-Pooh | A.A. Milne | Christopher Robin’s admiration for Pooh’s loyalty and friendship. |
Encomium in Poetry
| Poem | Poet | Example |
| To His Coy Mistress | Andrew Marvell | The poet’s praise for his lover’s beauty and virtues. |
| The Waste Land | T.S. Eliot | Eliot’s admiration for the resilience of human spirit amidst despair. |
| Ulysses | Alfred Lord Tennyson | Praise for the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure. |
Encomium in Songs
| Song | Artist | Example |
| Your Song | Elton John | Praise for the person the song is dedicated to. |
| Hero | Mariah Carey | Praise for the strength and courage within everyone. |
| Wind Beneath My Wings | Bette Midler | Acknowledging the support and inspiration provided by another. |
Encomium in Movies
| Movie | Scene | Example |
| Dead Poets Society | The final scene | Students’ praise for their teacher, Mr. Keating. |
| The King’s Speech | The broadcast scene | The nation’s praise for King George VI’s speech. |
| The Pursuit of Happyness | The final scene | Praise for Chris Gardner’s perseverance and success. |
YouTube Links:
- Dead Poets Society – Final Scene
- The King’s Speech – Broadcast Scene
- The Pursuit of Happyness – Final Scene
Encomium in Advertising
| Advertisement | Company | Example |
| Think Different | Apple | Celebrating the achievements of innovators and visionaries. |
| Thank You, Mom | P&G | Praising the dedication and sacrifices of mothers. |
| Real Beauty | Dove | Celebrating natural beauty and self-confidence. |
YouTube Links:
FAQs about Encomium
What is encomium in literature?
Encomium in literature is a form of high praise directed at a person, place, thing, or event, often used to celebrate virtues and achievements.
How does encomium differ from panegyric?
Both encomium and panegyric involve praise, but panegyric often refers to more formal, elaborate, and public praise, whereas encomium can be more personal and informal.
Can encomium be used in all types of writing?
Yes, encomium can be used in various types of writing, including speeches, poetry, prose, songs, movies, and advertising, to celebrate and honor its subject.
Why is encomium important in writing?
Encomium is important because it allows writers to express admiration and respect, inspire others, and create positive emotional impact through genuine and heartfelt praise.
Related Devices
Panegyric
A formal public speech or written work that praises someone or something in a highly elaborate and dignified manner.
Ode
A type of lyrical stanza that glorifies an event or individual, describing nature intellectually as well as emotionally.
Eulogy
A speech or written tribute praising someone who has died, typically delivered at their funeral.
Tribute
An act, statement, or gift intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration.
Applause
An expression of approval or praise, often through clapping, used to show appreciation for a performance or achievement.