Literature Literary Devisces

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How To Train Your Dragon

1.Alliteration is a literary device where words that start with the same sound or letter are used
in close proximity. This creates a rhythmic, repetitive effect that can make writing more
memorable and impactful.

1. Here are 3 examples of alliteration from the novel "How to Train Your Dragon" by Cressida
Cowell:
2. "Hiccup the Horrendous, the Hope and Heir to the Hairy Hooligan Tribe, had a very hard
time finding his first Fearsome Foe."
The alliteration here is with the "H" and "F" sounds.
3. "Deadly Deadly Nadders were darting and diving down from the dark, dazzling sky."
The alliteration is with the "D" and "S" sounds.
4. "The Terrible Terrible Terrors were twitching and tussling, trying to tear the tasty treats
from Toothless's talons."
The alliteration is with the "T" and "S" sounds.
5. "Hiccup's heart hammered as he hurried home."
The alliteration is with the "h" sound.
6. "The fierce, fearsome Flightmare flew furiously towards Fishlegs."
The alliteration is with the "f" sound.
7. "The daring, dashing dragon-riders dived down dramatically."
The alliteration is with the "d" sound.
8. "The sly, slithering Slitherwing snapped at Snotlout's shield."
The alliteration is with the "s" and "sl" sounds.
9. "Astrid's axe arced through the air, aiming accurately at the attacker."
The alliteration is with the "a" and "a" sounds.

Alliteration helps create a pleasant, rhythmic flow to the language and can make descriptions
more vivid and memorable.

2.Allusion is another important literary device that is used in many works of literature, including
"How to Train Your Dragon" by Cressida Cowell.

 An allusion is a brief, indirect reference to a person, place, event, or another work of


literature. Authors use allusions to make connections, provide context, or evoke certain
ideas or emotions in the reader's mind.

Here are some examples of allusions found in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. "Hiccup was as limp as a rag doll."


This is an allusion to the soft, lifeless nature of a rag doll, comparing Hiccup's state to being
completely exhausted or defeated.
2. "Toothless was as stiff as a board."
This allusion compares Toothless' rigid posture to the inflexibility of a wooden board,
suggesting he was tense or on high alert.
3. "Snotlout was as stubborn as a mule."
This allusion likens Snotlout's stubbornness and abstinence to the well-known stubbornness
of mules.
4. "Fishlegs was as nervous as a cat on a hot tin roof."
This allusion references the image of a cat feeling anxious and uncomfortable on a hot metal
surface, conveying Fishlegs' high level of nervousness.
5. "Astrid was as fierce as a lioness protecting her cubs."
This allusion compares Astrid's fierce, protective nature to that of a lioness guarding her
young, emphasizing her strength and determination.

These types of allusions help the author draw parallels, evoke imagery, and deepen the reader's
understanding and engagement with the characters and story.

3.Foreshadowing is an important literary device that Cressida Cowell uses throughout the "How
to Train Your Dragon" novel.

 Foreshadowing refers to the inclusion of hints or clues within the text that suggest future
events or developments in the story. Authors use foreshadowing to build anticipation,
create suspense, and subtly prepare the reader for what is to come.

Here are some examples of foreshadowing in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. "Hiccup had a very bad feeling about this."


This line foreshadows that something challenging or dangerous is about to happen, setting
up the reader's expectations.
2. "Hiccup knew that if he failed, he would be banished from the Hairy Hooligan tribe
forever."
This foreshadows the high stakes and potential consequences Hiccup faces in his quest to
find and train a dragon.
3. "Hiccup had a horrible feeling that the Monstrous Nightmare was going to be even more
monstrous than he had imagined."
This line hints that Hiccup's upcoming encounter with the Monstrous Nightmare will be
more difficult or dangerous than he anticipates.
4. "Hiccup had a sinking feeling that things were about to get a whole lot worse."
This foreshadows that the situation is going to deteriorate or become more challenging for
Hiccup and the other characters.
5. "Hiccup knew that if he failed, he would be the laughing stock of the entire Barbaric
Archipelago."
This line suggests the high stakes and public humiliation Hiccup faces if he is unable to
complete his task successfully.

These examples of foreshadowing help build tension, create a sense of foreboding, and keep
readers engaged as they anticipate how the story will unfold.

4.Irony is another important literary device that Cressida Cowell utilizes in the "How to Train
Your Dragon" novel.
 Irony refers to a situation or statement that is the opposite of what is expected or
intended. There are several types of irony, including:

1. Verbal irony - when someone says the opposite of what they actually mean.
2. Situational irony - when an outcome is very different from what was expected.
3. Dramatic irony - when the audience knows something that the characters do not.

Here are some examples of irony found in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. Situational Irony:
 Hiccup is part of the Hairy Hooligan tribe, but he is small and scrawny, the opposite of
what a typical Viking should be.
2. Verbal Irony:
 When Hiccup's father Stoick says, "Well done, Hiccup" after Hiccup fails a task, even
though Hiccup clearly did not succeed.
3. Dramatic Irony:
 The audience knows that Hiccup has befriended a Night Fury, the most feared dragon,
while the other Vikings remain unaware of this.
4. Situational Irony:
 Vikings are supposed to kill dragons, but Hiccup learns to train and befriend them
instead.
5. Verbal Irony:
 When Hiccup's peers mock him as "Hiccup the Useless", even though he ultimately
proves to be the most capable dragon trainer.

These examples of irony create humour, build tension, and subvert the readers' expectations,
making the story more engaging and thought provoking.

5.Metaphor is a powerful literary device that Cressida Cowell uses extensively in the "How to
Train Your Dragon" novel.

 A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two things that
are not literally alike, but have something in common. Metaphors help create vivid
imagery and deepen the reader's understanding of the characters, events, and themes.

Here are some examples of metaphors found in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. "Hiccup's heart was a drum in his chest."


This metaphor compares Hiccup's rapidly beating heart to the pounding of a drum,
conveying his sense of anxiety or excitement.
2. "Toothless's eyes were green pools of liquid fire."
This metaphor likens Toothless's eyes to pools of fire, suggesting their intense, fiery quality.
3. "Astrid was a Valkyrie, a fierce female warrior."
This metaphor compares Astrid to a Valkyrie, the mythical female figures who choose the
bravest warriors, emphasizing her strength and warrior-like qualities.
4. "Snotlout's muscles were like steel cables."
This metaphor compares Snotlout's muscular arms to strong, inflexible steel cables,
highlighting his physical power and strength.
5. "Fishlegs was a nervous wreck."
This metaphor describes Fishlegs as being in a state of complete anxiety or distress, like a
wrecked vehicle.

These metaphors help the reader visualize the characters and their emotions more vividly, while
also adding depth and richness to the storytelling.

6.6Simile is another important literary device that Cressida Cowell utilizes in the "How to Train
Your Dragon" novel.

 A simile is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two different
things using the words "like" or "as." Similes help create vivid imagery and enhance the
reader's understanding of the characters, events, and descriptions in the story.

Here are some examples of similes found in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. "Hiccup's hands were shaking like leaves in the wind."


This simile compares Hiccup's trembling hands to the movement of leaves blowing in the
wind, conveying his nervousness or fear.
2. "Toothless's eyes were as green as emeralds."
This simile directly compares the colour of Toothless's eyes to the precious gemstone
emerald, highlighting their vibrant, striking appearance.
3. "Astrid moved as quick as a flash."
This simile likens Astrid's speed and agility to the instantaneous movement of a flash of
lightning, emphasizing her quickness and athleticism.
4. "Snotlout was as stubborn as a mule."
This simile compares Snotlout's stubbornness to the well-known abstinence of a mule,
providing a clear visual for the reader.
5. "Fishlegs was as nervous as a cat on a hot tin roof."
This simile paints a vivid picture of Fishlegs' high level of anxiety, comparing it to a cat's
discomfort on a hot metal surface.

These similes help the reader visualize the characters and their actions more clearly, while also
adding descriptive flair and emphasizing key qualities or emotions.

7.Personification is another literary device that Cressida Cowell utilizes effectively in her novel
"How to Train Your Dragon."

 Personification is a figure of speech where non-human objects, animals, or abstract ideas


are given human-like qualities, characteristics, or behaviours. This helps bring inanimate
things to life and can create more vivid, imaginative descriptions.

Here are some examples of personification found in "How to Train Your Dragon":
1. "The wind howled through the trees."
In this example, the wind is given the human-like ability to "howl," personifying it as having
a voice.
2. "The clouds danced across the sky."
This personifies the clouds as having the human ability to dance, imbuing them with a sense
of movement and liveliness.
3. "The sea was angry, crashing against the rocks."
Describing the sea as "angry" and "crashing" gives it human emotions and actions, bringing
the body of water to life.
4. "The fire eagerly licked at the kindling."
Personifying the fire as "eagerly licking" the kindling makes it seem almost alive and
hungry.
5. "The trees waved their branches in greeting."
This personifies the trees as having human-like limbs that can wave in a friendly,
welcoming gesture.

These examples of personification help bring the natural world and inanimate objects to life,
making the descriptions more vivid, imaginative and engaging for the reader.

8.Symbolism is a literary device where an object, person, action, or situation represents


something else, often an abstract idea or concept. Symbols can have deeper, more profound
meanings beyond their literal interpretation.

Here are some examples of symbolism found in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. The dragons themselves can be seen as symbols of untamed, powerful nature that must be
respected and understood, not just conquered.
2. Toothless, Hiccup's Night Fury dragon, can symbolize the potential for friendship, trust and
understanding between humans and the natural world.
3. Hiccup's small stature and physical differences from the typical Viking warrior can
symbolize the power of intelligence, creativity and compassion over brute strength.
4. The Viking helmets, with their horns, can symbolize the warrior culture and violent history
of the Viking tribes, which Hiccup challenges through his more peaceful approach.
5. The Book of Dragons, which contains knowledge and insights about dragons, can symbolize
the importance of education, curiosity and an open mind in overcoming prejudice and fear.

These symbolic representations help convey deeper themes about the relationship between
humans and nature, the value of empathy and understanding, and the power of nonconformity to
transform one's community.

 Theme is a central idea or message that the author explores throughout a work of
literature. Themes are often abstract concepts or universal truths about the human
experience, society, or the natural world. They go beyond the specific plot or characters,
and can reveal deeper insights.

Here are some of the key themes present in "How to Train Your Dragon":
1. The power of understanding and empathy:
 Hiccup's ability to befriend and train dragons, rather than just kill them, represents the
theme of overcoming fear and prejudice through compassion.
2. The importance of individuality and nonconformity:
 Hiccup's differences from the typical Viking warrior challenge the community's
expectations and traditions, highlighting the theme of embracing one's uniqueness.
3. The delicate balance between humans and nature:
 The relationship between the Vikings and the dragons explores the theme of humanity's
complex and often destructive interactions with the natural world.
4. The value of knowledge, curiosity and an open mind:
 Hiccup's willingness to learn about dragons, rather than simply fight them, represents the
theme of the transformative power of education and intellectual growth.
5. Themes of friendship, loyalty and teamwork:
 The bonds that form between Hiccup and Toothless, as well as the other Vikings,
underscore the themes of the importance of meaningful relationships and working
together.

 Motifs are recurring themes, ideas, symbols, or narrative elements that develop and
reinforce the central themes of a literary work. Motifs help unify the story and deepen the
reader's understanding of the author's message.

Here are some examples of important motifs in "How to Train Your Dragon":

1. The motif of the outsider:


 Hiccup's status as an outcast and misfit within the Viking community is a central motif
that explores themes of individuality and challenging societal norms.
2. The motif of the human-dragon bond:
 The developing friendship and partnership between Hiccup and Toothless, the Night
Fury dragon, is a powerful recurring motif that symbolizes mutual understanding and
respect between humans and nature.
3. The motif of knowledge and learning:
 Hiccup's reliance on study, curiosity and understanding, rather than just brute force, is a
consistent motif that reinforces the value of intellectual growth.
4. The motif of tradition vs. progress:
 The clash between the Vikings' established customs and Hiccup's innovative, more
compassionate approaches is a prominent motif that explores themes of cultural change.
5. The motif of courage and inner strength:
 Hiccup's bravery and determination to prove himself, despite his physical limitations, is a
recurring motif that celebrates the power of the human spirit.

These motifs weave throughout the novel, connecting the various narrative elements and
highlighting Cressida Cowell's central themes.

An overview of the main characters in the novel "How to Train Your Dragon" by
Cressida Cowell, along with a description of their key traits, personalities, and
appearances.
1. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III: The protagonist of the story, Hiccup is a young Viking
boy who is small and scrawny compared to his peers. However, he possesses a keen
intellect, creativity, and a compassionate nature that set him apart from the typical Viking
warrior. Hiccup is often overlooked and underestimated by his tribe, but his ability to
befriend and train the fearsome Night Fury dragon, Toothless, eventually earns him
respect and admiration.
2. Toothless: Hiccup's Night Fury dragon companion is a powerful, mysterious creature
with striking green eyes and the ability to blend seamlessly into the night sky. Initially
wary of humans, Toothless forms a deep bond with Hiccup, learning to trust and work
alongside him. Toothless is intelligent, fiercely loyal, and possesses an almost playful
quality that endears him to both Hiccup and the reader.
3. Astrid Hofferson: A fierce and skilled young Viking warrior, Astrid is Hiccup's classmate
and romantic interest. With her blonde hair, piercing blue eyes, and athletic build, Astrid
embodies the traditional Viking aesthetic. She is competitive, determined, and initially
dismissive of Hiccup, but over time, she comes to respect his unique abilities and
unconventional approach to problem-solving.
4. Stoick the Vast: Hiccup's father and the chief of the Viking tribe, Stoick is a formidable,
imposing figure with a booming voice and a no-nonsense attitude. He is a skilled warrior
and leader, but struggles to understand his son's differences and often clashes with
Hiccup's more pacifist tendencies. Underneath his gruff exterior, Stoick deeply cares for
his son and the well-being of his community.
5. Fishlegs Ingerman: A timid, bookish Viking boy who is fascinated by dragons and their
various species. Fishlegs is overweight and somewhat nervous, but he possesses an
extensive knowledge of dragon lore that proves invaluable. Despite his insecurities,
Fishlegs shows bravery and loyalty when it counts.
6. Snotlout Jorgenson: The arrogant, bully-like cousin of Hiccup, Snotlout is a burly,
muscular Viking who takes pride in his physical strength and warrior prowess. He often
mocks and belittles Hiccup, seeing him as weak and unworthy. Snotlout's brash
personality and inflated ego mask a deeper insecurity.
7. Ruffnut and Tuffnut Thorston: The twin siblings of the Viking tribe, Ruffnut and Tuffnut
are mischievous, quarrelsome, and often engaged in petty squabbles. With their unkempt,
wild appearances and love of chaos, the twins provide much of the comic relief in the
story.
8. Gobber the Belch: Stoick's close friend and the blacksmith of the village, Gobber is a
one-armed, one-legged Viking with a gruff, sarcastic demeanor. However, he serves as a
mentor and father figure to Hiccup, offering guidance and support when the young
Viking needs it most.

 Type and Genre:


"How to Train Your Dragon" is a work of fantasy fiction, more specifically a young adult
(YA) fantasy adventure novel. It features elements of the fantasy genre, including the
presence of mythical creatures (dragons), as well as a coming-of-age story centred around
the protagonist, Hiccup.
 Tone:
The overall tone of the novel is one of adventure, humour, and heart. While it deals with
themes of prejudice, nonconformity, and the human-nature relationship, the narrative
maintains a light-hearted, playful quality. There are moments of tension and drama, but
the tone is generally upbeat and optimistic, reflecting Hiccup's determination to challenge
the status quo.
 Setting:
the primary setting of “How to Train Your Dragon” do Viking tribes inhabit the fictional
Barbaric Archipelago, a group of islands. The story takes place in a medieval, Norse-
inspired world, where the Vikings coexist in an uneasy relationship with the dragons that
also inhabit the islands. The rugged, windswept landscapes, as well as the Viking villages
and settlements, provide a vivid and immersive backdrop for the novel's events.

In summary, "How to Train Your Dragon" is a young adult fantasy adventure novel with a tone
that blends humour, heart, and a sense of wonder, set within the fantastical world of the Barbaric
Archipelago and its Viking inhabitants. The combination of these elements creates an engaging
and imaginative reading experience for the audience.

 Important Quotes:

1. "Dragons are not mere beasts. They are intelligent creatures who can be trained and
befriended if you approach them with care and respect." - Hiccup, said to his Viking peers
during a dragon training lesson.
This quote reflects Hiccup's growing understanding and compassion towards dragons, which
contrasts with the traditional Viking view of them as mindless, dangerous beasts.
2. "The greatest weapon is the mind, not the claw or the tooth." - Hiccup, said to Stoick the
Vast, his father, during a discussion about dragon training.
This quote highlights Hiccup's belief that intelligence and problem-solving are more
powerful than brute force, which challenges the Viking way of thinking.
3. "Toothless, you may be a Night Fury, the unholy offspring of lightning and death itself, but
you are also my friend." - Hiccup, said to his dragon companion, Toothless, after they have
formed a strong bond.
This quote demonstrates the deep connection and mutual understanding that develops
between Hiccup and Toothless, defying the Vikings' fear and distrust of dragons.
4. "A chief protects his own." - Stoick the Vast, said to Hiccup when he tries to stop his father
from attacking the dragons.
This quote reflects Stoick's sense of duty and responsibility as the chief of the Viking tribe,
even when it means going against his son's more peaceful approach.
5. "Just because something is terrifying doesn't mean it's not also beautiful." - Astrid, said to
Hiccup as they observe the Night Fury dragons in flight.
This quote highlights Astrid's growing appreciation for the dragons, which represents her
evolving perspective and the theme of challenging preconceptions.

Here are some of the main quotes from "How to Train Your Dragon" that are related to the
bullying and friendship themes:

1. "You're not a Viking. You're not my cousin." - Snotlout, said to Hiccup during dragon
training.
This quote shows Snotlout's bullying and dismissive attitude towards Hiccup, highlighting
the theme of Hiccup being an outcast and not fitting in with the traditional Viking way of
life.
2. "Maybe I don't want to be a great dragon killer. Maybe I just want a friend." - Hiccup, said
to himself as he reflects on his desire for acceptance and companionship.
This quote reveals Hiccup's underlying wish for friendship, which contrasts with the Viking
emphasis on warrior prowess and dragon slaying.
3. "You may be small, Hiccup, but you have the heart of a dragon." - Gobber, said to Hiccup
after witnessing his bravery and bond with Toothless.
This quote represents Gobber's recognition of Hiccup's true strength and character, despite
his physical limitations, underscoring the theme of friendship and acceptance.
4. "We may be Vikings, but we have more in common with the dragons than you think." -
Hiccup, said to the other Viking teens during a dragon training session.
This quote highlights Hiccup's growing understanding of the shared humanity between
Vikings and dragons, challenging the traditional enmity and promoting the theme of
friendship and empathy.
5. "Toothless, you may be a Night Fury, the unholy offspring of lightning and death itself, but
you are also my friend." - Hiccup, said to Toothless after they have formed a strong bond.
This quote demonstrates the deep, meaningful friendship that develops between Hiccup and
Toothless, which is central to the novel's themes of acceptance, understanding, and the
power of relationships.

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