Literary Techniques Used in Connell's The Most Dangerous Game

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The richness of General Zaroff’s lifestyle is a little ironic because one would not expect a man who lives this way to be uncivilized and hunt humans. Imagery is very important in a literary classic; it serves to intensify the impact of the work. Imagery also gives the story more detail, because the reader is able to uses their senses to understand the mood and theme of the story (The Use of Imagery to Reflect Theme).
One of the main literary techniques Connell uses to make “The Most Dangerous Game,” an interesting and fast paced story is suspense. Suspense is the intense feeling the reader goes through while waiting for the outcome (Engrade). The first time Connell uses suspense is when he provides mysterious references to Ship-Trap Island that makes the crew of the yacht nervous. “OFF THERE to the right--somewhere--is a large island," said Whitney." It's rather a mystery--"
"What island is it?" Rainsford asked.” The eerie description of the island builds suspense and relays a curiosity in the reader to know more. Also the way Ivan is first described in the story helps to express the mood of fear in the reader. “The first thing Rainsford's eyes discerned was the largest man Rainsford had ever seen--a gigantic creature, solidly made and black bearded to the waist. In his hand the man held a long-barreled revolver, and he was pointing it straight at Rainsford's heart.” By detailing Ivan’s menacing physical appearance, helps the reader to understand how Rainsford might have felt standing before him. Another suspenseful moment is the entire hunt between General Zaroff and Rainsford. Throughout the hunt the reader is unsure of what will happen and who will get killed. Because the reader does not know who will win, they are drawn to r...

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Thompson, Terry W. "Connell's THE MOST DANGEROUS GAME. Explicator 60.2." Literary Reference Center. EBSCO, 2002. Web. 8 Feb. 2014.
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Zolyshka, Emily. "The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell." StudyMode. Studymode.com, May 2013. Web. 08 Feb. 2014.

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