“Trouble in Paradise” is a 1932 romantic comedy directed by Ernst Lubitsch. The film showcases the sophisticated and witty “Lubitsch touch” and revolves around two charming con artists who fall in love while attempting a heist on a wealthy Parisian widow. The movie is celebrated for its clever dialogue , intricate plot , and elegant visual style.
Here are ten literary devices employed in “Trouble in Paradise,” each illustrated with specific examples from the film:
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Gaston and Lily pretending to be aristocrats while actually being thieves. Situational Irony Madame Colet hiring Gaston, unaware that he plans to rob her. Dramatic Irony
Symbolism
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The initial scenes where Gaston and Lily reveal their thieving skills. Foreshadowing future heistGaston’s comment about being a great secretary. Foreshadowing his role with Madame Colet
Satire
Movie Scene Device Example The portrayal of high society’s obsession with appearances. Social Satire Mocking the frivolous spending of the wealthy. Satire of extravagance
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example Comparing love to a game of chess. Metaphor Describing relationships as a “thief’s paradise.” Metaphor
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example References to Shakespearean comedies in the witty dialogue . Literary Allusion Allusions to contemporary social norms and practices. Cultural Allusion
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example Gaston’s exaggerated declarations of love. Hyperbole Lily’s dramatic reactions to Gaston’s charm. Hyperbole
Euphemism
Movie Scene Device Example “Light-fingered” to describe stealing. Euphemism “Acquiring” instead of stealing. Euphemism
Personification
Movie Scene Device Example The city of Paris as a living, breathing character. Personification Madame Colet’s wealth being described as “seductive.” Personification
Oxymoron
Movie Scene Device Example “Honest thief” used to describe Gaston. Oxymoron “Sweet sorrow” of leaving the con life. Oxymoron
Character Studies
Gaston Monescu
Device Explanation Irony Gaston’s role as a charming con artist who wins over his targets with honesty. Metaphor Described as a “master of disguise,” reflecting his ability to blend into any role.
Lily
Device Explanation Hyperbole Her exaggerated reactions to Gaston’s charms highlight her passionate nature. Euphemism Describing her thefts as “acquisitions” softens her criminal actions.
Madame Colet
Device Explanation Symbolism Represents the wealthy elite, oblivious to the machinations around her. Irony Trusts Gaston implicitly, unaware of his true intentions.
Character Dynamics
Gaston and Lily’s Relationship
Device Explanation Irony Their relationship thrives on deception, yet they are deeply in love. Satire Their interactions satirize romantic conventions and societal norms.
Gaston and Madame Colet
Device Explanation Foreshadowing Early interactions hint at Gaston’s ulterior motives. Metaphor Their relationship is a metaphor for the deceptive allure of wealth.
Deception and Truth
Device Explanation Irony Characters often deceive others while revealing truths about themselves. Symbolism Objects like the stolen purse symbolize hidden truths.
Love and Morality
Device Explanation Metaphor Love is portrayed as a game with its own rules and morals. Hyperbole Romantic declarations highlight the intensity and complexity of love.
Class and Society
Device Explanation Satire High society is depicted as frivolous and hypocritical. Allusion References to social norms emphasize class disparities.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Irony Visual Juxtaposition Scenes contrast luxurious settings with deceitful actions. Symbolism Lighting Soft lighting on Madame Colet enhances her obliviousness. Foreshadowing Camera Angles Angles highlighting characters’ expressions hint at future actions. Satire Costume Design Exaggerated costumes mock societal fashion trends. Metaphor Soundtrack Music underscores the thematic metaphors of love and deceit.
Scene Selection and Breakdown
Gaston and Lily’s Reunion YouTube Link: Gaston and Lily’s Reunion irony and metaphor to highlight their romantic and deceptive nature.Madame Colet’s Dinner Party YouTube Link: Madame Colet’s Dinner Party Satire and symbolism are used to critique high society and wealth.The Heist Plan YouTube Link: The Heist Plan Foreshadowing and dramatic irony build tension and anticipation.
To wrap up , let’s engage with an interactive quiz to test your understanding of the literary devices in “Trouble in Paradise”:
What literary device is prominently used when Gaston declares his love in exaggerated terms?
Which device is employed when the stolen purse symbolizes the relationship between Gaston and Lily?
How does the film satirize high society?
A) Through exaggerated costumes
B) Through subtle lighting
C) Through foreshadowing
