“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1982, is a heartwarming tale of friendship between a young boy, Elliott, and an alien stranded on Earth. This classic film explores themes of childhood, loneliness, and the universal desire for connection.
Literary Devices Used in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example E.T.’s glowing heart Represents love and the life force that connects all beings. E.T. and Elliott’s psychic connection Symbolizes the deep emotional bond and shared experiences.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The spaceship Symbolizes hope and the possibility of returning home. Reese’s Pieces trail Represents trust and the beginning of Elliott’s friendship with E.T.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example E.T.’s initial appearance Hints at the eventual bond between him and Elliott. The dying plant Foretells E.T.’s connection to Earth’s environment and his fate.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Government agents’ fear of E.T. Contrasts with E.T.’s harmless and kind nature. E.T. getting sick on Earth Ironically, the place he seeks refuge becomes a source of danger.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example E.T.’s journey home Represents the immigrant experience and the longing for belonging. E.T.’s healing powers Allegory for the healing power of love and friendship.
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example E.T. hiding among stuffed animals References classic hide-and-seek and the innocence of childhood. E.T.’s healing touch Alludes to Jesus’ miraculous healing powers.
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The moonlit bike ride Creates a magical, unforgettable visual moment. The autumn setting Evokes a sense of change and the passage of time.
Personification
Movie Scene Device Example E.T. mimicking human behavior Gives E.T. relatable human qualities. E.T. learning to speak Shows E.T.’s adaptation and connection to human culture.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example E.T.’s advanced technology vs. Elliott’s ordinary life Highlights the contrast between the alien and the familiar. Halloween scenes Juxtaposes the real alien (E.T.) with children in costumes.
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example E.T. reviving the dead plant Exaggerates the extent of E.T.’s powers. The emotional farewell Heightens the dramatic intensity of their separation.
Elliott
Device Explanation Symbolism Elliott’s connection to E.T. symbolizes the purity of childhood innocence. Metaphor His longing for connection represents universal human desires for love and friendship.
E.T.
Device Explanation Allegory E.T.’s journey is an allegory for the immigrant experience. Imagery His physical appearance and glowing heart create a lasting visual impact, emphasizing his otherworldliness.
Michael (Elliott’s older brother)
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Michael’s initial skepticism and eventual acceptance highlight the theme of growth and understanding. Irony Despite being the older sibling, he learns valuable lessons from his younger brother’s experience with E.T.
Gertie (Elliott’s younger sister)
Device Explanation Personification Gertie’s interactions with E.T. bring out her nurturing, empathetic nature. Allusion Her character alludes to the universal curiosity and innocence of childhood.
Keys (Government agent)
Device Explanation Foreshadowing His presence hints at the impending conflict and the government’s involvement. Irony Despite his initial role as an antagonist , he shows a deep understanding and compassion for E.T.’s plight.
Character Dynamics
Relationship Explanation Elliott and E.T. Their bond drives the narrative , symbolizing pure friendship and connection. Elliott and Michael Their evolving relationship showcases themes of familial love and mutual respect. E.T. and Gertie Their interactions highlight the innocence and adaptability of children. Government agents and E.T. Their pursuit of E.T. represents the fear of the unknown and the need for understanding.
Loneliness and Friendship
Device Explanation Symbolism E.T.’s glowing heart symbolizes the warmth of true friendship. Metaphor The psychic connection between E.T. and Elliott represents the deep bond formed through shared experiences.
The Desire for Connection
Device Explanation Allegory E.T.’s journey home represents the universal longing for belonging and connection. Juxtaposition The contrast between E.T.’s advanced technology and Elliott’s ordinary life highlights the theme of connection across differences.
Fear of the Unknown
Device Explanation Irony The government’s fear of E.T. contrasts with his harmless nature, emphasizing the irrationality of fearing the unknown. Foreshadowing The dying plant hints at the potential danger E.T. faces on Earth, highlighting the theme of vulnerability.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Imagery Cinematography The iconic moonlit bike ride scene creates a magical visual impact. Symbolism Lighting E.T.’s glowing heart is emphasized through strategic lighting to symbolize love and life. Allegory Sound Design The use of John Williams’ emotive score underscores the allegorical journey of E.T.’s return home. Metaphor Visual Effects The psychic connection scenes are enhanced with visual effects to depict the deep bond between E.T. and Elliott.
Scene Selection
The Moonlit Bike Ride
YouTube Link Scene Breakdown: This iconic scene utilizes stunning cinematography and John Williams’ enchanting score to create a moment of pure magic. The imagery of the boys riding their bikes across the moon symbolizes the boundless possibilities of childhood imagination and the extraordinary nature of their adventure with E.T.
E.T.’s Healing Touch
YouTube Link Scene Breakdown: E.T.’s ability to heal wounds with his touch is a powerful symbol of his benevolent nature and the healing power of love. The visual effects and lighting emphasize the miraculous quality of this moment, reinforcing the theme of connection and empathy.
The Farewell Scene
YouTube Link Scene Breakdown: The emotional farewell between Elliott and E.T. is a culmination of the film’s themes of friendship and connection. The use of close-ups, John Williams’ poignant score, and the heartfelt performances create a deeply moving scene that resonates with audiences on a profound level.
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
1. What does E.T.’s glowing heart symbolize?
A) Fear
B) Love
C) Anger
D) Curiosity
2. Which literary device is used when E.T. and Elliott share a psychic connection?
3. The scene where E.T. hides among stuffed animals is an example of:
4. How does the film use irony in the portrayal of government agents?
A) By showing them as compassionate
B) By contrasting their fear with E.T.’s kindness
C) By making them the heroes
D) By highlighting their advanced technology
5. What theme is highlighted by E.T.’s journey home?
A) Loneliness
B) Fear
C) Belonging
D) Conflict
