Anaphora (rhetoric)


In rhetoric, an anaphora is a rhetorical device that consists of repeating a sequence of words at the beginnings of neighboring clauses, thereby lending them :wikt:emphasis|emphasis. In contrast, an epistrophe is repeating words at the clauses' ends. The combination of anaphora and epistrophe results in symploce.

Functions

Other than the function of emphasizing ideas, the use of anaphora as a rhetorical device adds rhythm to a word as well as making it more pleasurable to read and easier to remember. Anaphora is repetition at the beginning of a sentence to create emphasis. Anaphora serves the purpose of delivering an artistic effect to a passage. It is also used to appeal to the emotions of the audience in order to persuade, inspire, motivate and encourage them. In Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech, he uses anaphora by repeating "I have a dream" eight times throughout the speech. Dr. MLK Jr.'s use of repetition calls to the audience and persuades them to be the change. Similarly, the apostle Paul uses “if any” four times at the beginning of clauses to intensify his appeal to the Philippian church. "If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete”.

Usage

Today, anaphora is seen in many different contexts, including songs, movies, television, political speeches, poetry, and prose.

Examples