“The Social Network,” directed by David Fincher and released in 2010, is a biographical drama that chronicles the rise of Facebook and its founder, Mark Zuckerberg. The film, written by Aaron Sorkin, is known for its sharp dialogue, complex characters, and a storyline that delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and the ethical implications of social media.
The film employs various literary devices to enhance its narrative and character development. Below are ten literary devices, each illustrated with specific scenes.
1. Metaphor
Movie Scene
Device Example
Mark Zuckerberg creating Facemash
The Facemash scene is a metaphor for the disruptive nature of Zuckerberg’s later endeavors with Facebook.
Final deposition scene
The scene where Zuckerberg refreshes Erica’s Facebook profile is a metaphor for his unending need for validation.
2. Irony
Movie Scene
Device Example
Opening conversation with Erica Albright
Zuckerberg’s claim that he doesn’t need friends is ironic considering he goes on to create the largest social network.
Eduardo’s shares getting diluted
Eduardo, who supported Mark financially, ironically ends up being betrayed by him.
3. Flashback
Movie Scene
Device Example
Deposition scenes
The entire narrative structure is built on flashbacks during the legal depositions.
Introduction of Sean Parker
Flashbacks are used to reveal Sean Parker’s past and his impact on Facebook.
4. Symbolism
Movie Scene
Device Example
The business cards
Sean Parker’s “I’m CEO, Bitch” business cards symbolize the brash and rebellious attitude of the start-up culture.
The chicken incident
The chicken episode symbolizes the absurd lengths to which individuals will go to fit in or assert dominance.
5. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene
Device Example
Opening breakup scene
Erica’s breakup with Mark foreshadows his later isolation and betrayal by close friends.
Eduardo’s concerns
Eduardo’s early warnings about business ethics foreshadow his eventual betrayal.
6. Hyperbole
Movie Scene
Device Example
Sean Parker’s grandiose plans
Sean Parker’s descriptions of the potential of Facebook often involve hyperbole, emphasizing his visionary but exaggerated outlook.
Mark’s rapid coding sessions
The portrayal of Mark coding at lightning speed is an exaggerated depiction of his genius and dedication.
7. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene
Device Example
Harvard elitism vs. hacker culture
The film juxtaposes the elitism of Harvard’s social clubs with the anarchic hacker culture.
Eduardo’s traditional business sense vs. Mark’s disruptive innovation
The contrasting approaches of Eduardo and Mark are frequently juxtaposed to highlight their differing visions.
8. Allusion
Movie Scene
Device Example
References to Bill Gates and Microsoft
The film alludes to tech giants like Bill Gates to draw parallels between Zuckerberg and earlier tech moguls.
The Beatles’ “Baby, You’re a Rich Man” song
The closing song alludes to the newfound wealth and the isolation it brings.
9. Dialogue
Movie Scene
Device Example
Mark’s conversations with Erica
The dialogue here is sharp and reflective of Mark’s quick wit and insecurity.
Legal deposition scenes
The dialogue in the depositions is packed with tension and reveals character motivations.
10. Motif
Movie Scene
Device Example
Recurring references to friendship
The motif of friendship, or lack thereof, runs throughout the film, highlighting Zuckerberg’s isolation.
Coding and creation
The recurring scenes of coding symbolize innovation and the relentless pursuit of success.
Breakdown: This scene sets the tone for the entire film. The rapid dialogue and sharp exchanges reveal Mark’s insecurity and foreshadow his later actions. It introduces the theme of isolation despite the creation of a social network.
Breakdown: This pivotal scene uses dramatic dialogue and intense performances to highlight the theme of betrayal. The visual focus on Eduardo’s expressions and the cold, calculated actions of Mark emphasize the emotional impact of the betrayal.
Breakdown: The culmination of the legal battles is depicted here. The use of flashbacks and sharp dialogue brings all narrative threads together, showcasing the fallout of ambition and the ultimate loneliness of Zuckerberg.
Conclusion
To test your understanding of the literary devices used in “The Social Network,” take this interactive multiple-choice quiz!
1. Which literary device is prominently used in the opening breakup scene?
