Figurative Language In A Hanging By George Orwell

Throughout history, imperialism has always been constant, but the attitude towards it has not. In the essay, “A Hanging”, George Orwell, through his use of elements of fiction, figurative language, and diction, shows how imperialism causes a lack of humanity. To begin, Orwell uses many elements of fiction to convey his point of view. One of these is setting. The sun is described as “a sickly light, like yellow tin foil”, setting up a somber and ominous mood. This use of pathetic fallacy causes the reader to view any upcoming events in a negative way, before even knowing what they are. His descriptions of the jail also help to shape the opinions of readers. By writing that the prison cells have “double bars, like small animal …show more content…
This explanation of setting conveys images of brutal and unjust conditions, showing the complete disregard for Burmese life felt by the English. This shows just how much imperialism robbed them of their humanity. The gallows themselves are “overgrown with tall prickly leaves”, making them seem as harsh and ugly as the events that take place there. Another impactful element of fiction is characterization. The prisoner is “a puny wisp of a man”, with a mustache like the one of “a comic man on the films.” The way he is portrayed makes him seem innocent, and incapable of committing a crime serious enough to justify his hanging. His characterization contrasts with that of the guards though. There are six tall warriors leading him to the gallows. This can be seen as harsh, considering they have to support him, as he is too weak to walk by himself. Francis, the head guard, is seen as unsympathetic and incompetent when he tells a man who does not want to be hanged to think of “all the pain and trouble” he is causing by resisting. While telling this story, he uses improper English and an abundance of colloquialisms, making the fact he has authority surprising. Since he is the head of the guards, it is difficult for the reader