🎬 The Remains of the Day drama film directed by James Ivory, based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s acclaimed novel . Set in post-World War II Britain, it stars Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson. The story follows a dedicated butler, Stevens, as he reflects on his years of service and missed opportunities for love and personal fulfillment.
Here are ten key literary devices used in the film, with specific examples from different scenes.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Stevens ignoring Miss Kenton’s feelings Stevens’ dedication to duty blinds him to his personal feelings, leading to tragic irony . Lord Darlington’s naivety about the Nazis The irony of Lord Darlington’s misguided idealism resulting in disastrous consequences.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The worn gloves Symbolize Stevens’ hidden emotions and his rigid adherence to duty. The mansion’s grandeur and decay Reflects the decline of the British aristocracy and Stevens’ inner emptiness.
Flashbacks
Movie Scene Device Example Stevens’ memories of Lord Darlington Flashbacks provide context and contrast with the present. Miss Kenton’s departure Reveals the emotional depth and missed opportunities of Stevens’ life.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The road tripRepresents Stevens’ journey of self-discovery and reflection. The title “The Remains of the Day” Metaphor for the remnants of Stevens’ life and lost time.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Stevens’ father’s death Foreshadows Stevens’ own emotional detachment and sacrifices. Miss Kenton’s initial confrontations Hints at her eventual departure and unresolved tensions.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example Lord Darlington’s political gatherings Allegory for the dangerous allure of fascism.Stevens’ unwavering loyalty Represents the dangers of blind obedience and duty.
Parallelism
Movie Scene Device Example Stevens’ and his father’s dedication Parallels show generational impact of duty. Miss Kenton’s emotional expressiveness vs. Stevens’ restraint Highlights contrasting character traits.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example The grandeur of the mansion vs. the humble cottages Juxtaposes the social classes and changing times. Stevens’ internal turmoil vs. external composure Emphasizes his emotional conflict .
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example The foggy English countryside Conveys a sense of mystery and Stevens’ unclear future. The meticulously set dining table Reflects the rigid social order and attention to detail.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The recurring letters Motif of missed communication and opportunities.Discussions about “dignity” Repeatedly explores the theme of what true dignity entails.
Character Studies
Stevens
Literary Device Explanation Irony Stevens’ dedication to duty ironically prevents him from living a fulfilling personal life. Flashbacks Show his unwavering loyalty and the cost of his sacrifices.
Miss Kenton
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism Her departure symbolizes lost opportunities and emotional repression. Juxtaposition Contrasts her emotional openness with Stevens’ restraint, highlighting their differences.
Lord Darlington
Literary Device Explanation Allegory Represents the misguided idealism and moral blindness of the British aristocracy. Irony His good intentions ironically lead to disastrous political consequences.
Character Dynamics
Literary Device Explanation Parallelism Stevens’ and his father’s similar paths emphasize the impact of their rigid devotion to duty. Juxtaposition The contrasting relationships between characters, such as Stevens and Miss Kenton, drive the narrative and highlight the themes of duty versus personal fulfillment.
The Passage of Time
Literary Device Explanation Flashbacks Highlight the contrast between past and present, emphasizing the theme of lost time. Metaphor The title itself serves as a metaphor for the remnants of life and missed opportunities.
Duty and Personal Sacrifice
Literary Device Explanation Irony Stevens’ unwavering duty leads to personal loss and regret. Allegory His dedication is an allegory for the dangers of blind obedience.
Social Class and Change
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The decaying mansion symbolizes the decline of the British aristocracy. Juxtaposition The contrasting settings highlight the changing social landscape.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Cinematography The use of lighting and set design to emphasize the worn gloves and decaying mansion. Flashbacks Editing Smooth transitions between past and present to provide context and emotional depth. Irony Sound Design The use of music to underscore the tragic irony of Stevens’ loyalty.
Scene 1: Miss Kenton’s Departure
Watch Scene
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Symbolism , Irony Cinematic Techniques: Close-up shots to capture emotional nuances, muted color palette to reflect somber mood .Impact: Highlights the emotional climax and Stevens’ internal conflict , contributing to the film’s overall poignancy.
Scene 2: Stevens’ Father’s Death
Watch Scene
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Foreshadowing , Allegory Cinematic Techniques: Slow pacing and low-key lighting to enhance the gravity of the moment.Impact: Foreshadows Stevens’ own emotional sacrifices and reinforces the theme of duty over personal life.
Scene 3: Final Reunion
Watch Scene
Breakdown:
Literary Devices: Flashbacks, Metaphor Cinematic Techniques: Intercutting past and present to highlight missed opportunities, symbolic use of the setting .Impact: Brings the story full circle, emphasizing the theme of the passage of time and lost chances.
To test your understanding of the literary devices used in The Remains of the Day
Multiple Choice Quiz
What does the worn glove symbolize?
A) Stevens’ professionalism
B) Stevens’ hidden emotions
C) Stevens’ wealth
D) Stevens’ loyalty
Which literary device is primarily used to contrast the past and present in the film?
What is the primary theme explored through Stevens’ character?
A) Love and Romance
B) Duty and Personal Sacrifice
C) Social Change
D) Wealth and Power
How does the film use cinematography to enhance symbolism ?
A) Through rapid cuts
B) Through close-up shots
C) Through lighting and set design
D) Through sound design
What does the decaying mansion represent in the film?
A) The British Empire
B) Stevens’ emotional state
C) The decline of the aristocracy
D) Miss Kenton’s departure
Answers:
B
C
B
C
C
