Question

Choose the literary device from the list below that is being used in this phrase from "Story of an Hour": "A kind intention or a cruel intention made the act seem no less than a crime as she looked upon it in that brief moment of illumination." In other words, all humans have the right to live by their own free will."
A. Theme
B. Character
C. Symbol
D. Setting

Answer 1

The literary device used in the excerpt and the short story is theme, option A. Epiphany, a figure of speech in literature, indicates a moment of sudden revelation.  Mrs. Mallard, the protagonist of this piece of work,  realises the fact that freedom, in a society where the concept for a woman is almost impossible, can be within her grasp. Seeing the death of her husband as an advantageous way of leading a new possible life can be considered no less than a crime. The theme of freedom is present, despite the tragic means that carry it.