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Grand style

Concept
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

An elevated poetic style marked by dignified diction, complex syntax, and lofty themes, often used in epic or ceremonial verse.

Detailed Definition
One of the three classical stylistic registers, characterized by elevated diction, complex syntax, and dignified tone appropriate for epic, tragedy, and other serious genres. The grand style employs Latinate vocabulary, elaborate figurative language, and formal grammatical structures to create appropriate solemnity and weight for weighty subjects, contrasting with middle and low styles, and exemplified in Milton's epic poetry where linguistic elevation matches the cosmic scope of themes.
Example
Example in poetry:
“O mighty Caesar, whose name shakes the stars!”; “Lo! The tempest bows before thy brow!”; “Thou art the tempest, the flame, the flood!”; “Hark! The heavens crack at thy command!”; “Great souls like thine eclipse the sun itself!”
Additional Notes
One of three classical styles (high, middle, low). Appropriate for epic, tragedy, and serious subjects. Characterized by elevated diction and complex syntax.
Also Known As
Elevated style High manner Sublime mode Lofty register Elevated Diction Elevated verse
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