“Safety Last!” is a 1923 silent film starring Harold Lloyd, known for its thrilling stunts and comedic genius. Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, this classic is a staple of early American cinema, showcasing Lloyd’s fearless physical comedy and inventive storytelling.
Let’s explore ten literary devices used in “Safety Last!” with specific scene mentions for each.
1. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Harold’s character is a clerk, but pretends to be a manager in letters to his girlfriend. Situational Irony The store manager unknowingly seeks Harold’s help, thinking he’s a stranger. Dramatic Irony
2. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The building clock Harold climbs symbolizes time running out and high stakes. Symbol of UrgencyHarold’s glasses, representing intelligence and normalcy, contrast with his daring actions. Symbol of Duality
3. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Harold climbs a rope early on, hinting at the climactic building scene. Physical Action Foreshadowing The chaotic store scenes suggest the impending climactic chaos of the building climb. Event Foreshadowing
4. Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example Harold hanging precariously from the clock. Exaggerated Danger The over-the-top crowd reactions to Harold’s stunts. Exaggerated Reactions
5. Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example The building climb as a metaphor for Harold’s social ascent. Social Climb Metaphor Harold’s struggle with obstacles representing life’s challenges. Struggle Metaphor
6. Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The repeated motif of time (clocks, deadlines). Time Motif Recurrent theme of deception and disguise. Deception Motif
7. Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example Harold’s climb symbolizes the American Dream. Social Mobility Allegory The chaotic store representing the unpredictability of urban life. Urban Chaos Allegory
8. Comic Relief
Movie Scene Device Example The misadventures in the store provide humor amidst tension. Situational Comic Relief Harold’s interactions with the policeman add levity. Character Interaction Comic Relief
9. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example The quiet of Harold’s hometown vs. the hustle of the city. Setting Juxtaposition Harold’s calm demeanor vs. the chaos around him. Character Juxtaposition
10. Pathos
Movie Scene Device Example Harold’s letters home showing his love and ambition. Emotional Pathos The scenes where Harold’s life is in real danger. Tension Pathos
Character Studies
Harold Lloyd (The Boy)
Device Explanation Irony Harold’s meek appearance contrasts with his daring actions. Symbolism His glasses symbolize intellect, juxtaposing his physical bravery.
Mildred Davis (The Girl)
Device Explanation Pathos Her belief in Harold’s success evokes empathy. Foreshadowing Her arrival in the city foreshadows the climax of Harold’s bravery.
Character Dynamics
Harold and the Girl
Irony irony .Pathos
Harold and the Policeman
Comic Relief : Their encounters are humorous, adding levity.Juxtaposition
Ambition
Device Explanation Metaphor Harold’s climb symbolizes his social and economic ambition. Hyperbole The exaggerated obstacles he faces emphasize the theme of ambition overcoming adversity.
Deception
Device Explanation Irony Harold’s deception about his job underlines the lengths people go to for love. Motif The repeated instances of disguise and pretense highlight the theme .
Urban Life
Device Explanation Allegory The chaotic store represents the challenges of urban life. Juxtaposition The contrast between the peaceful hometown and the bustling city.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Irony Visual Juxtaposition Harold’s calm appearance in dangerous situations enhances situational irony . Symbolism Visual Focus The camera’s focus on the clock emphasizes its symbolic importance. Pathos Musical Score The score heightens emotional moments, especially during Harold’s letters home.
Scene: The Clock Climb
YouTube Link : Harold Lloyd’s Clock Scene
Literary Devices : Irony , Hyperbole , Pathos Analysis : Harold’s precarious climb is a blend of situational irony (his calm vs. danger), hyperbole (exaggerated peril), and pathos (audience’s emotional investment).
Scene: Store Chaos
YouTube Link : Store Chaos Scene
Literary Devices : Comic Relief, Juxtaposition Analysis : The chaotic store scenes provide comic relief and juxtapose Harold’s calm demeanor with the surrounding chaos.
Interactive Quiz
Which literary device is used when Harold pretends to be a manager?
What does the building climb symbolize?
A) Time running out
B) Harold’s fear of heights
C) Social and economic ambition
Which device is highlighted by the contrast between Harold’s hometown and the city?
Enjoy the quiz and delve deeper into the brilliance of “Safety Last!”
