Literary Foils and Mirrors

The same…but different.

(I know. Pretty deep stuff.)

Foil

Literally, a “leaf” of bright metal placed under a jewel or art to increase its brilliance. Contrast underscores distinctive characteristics.

Literary FoilsPairs of characters whose differences illuminate the important characteristics in each other

Scar and SimbaScar is selfish, vain, and evil.Simba is self-sacrificing, loyal, and righteous.

Katniss and PeetaPeeta’s gentle and sweet personality contrast with Katniss’s rational, sometimes cold independence.

Harry Potter and Lord VoldemortHarry Potter believes in honor, truth, and justice.Voldemort is a staunch evildoer and considers Harry’s values foolish.

However…

Foils must have some similar form or function. We cannot compare apples and oranges, after all.

This is where the term mirror comes in.

MirrorsLiterally, a glass surface backed by reflective material (foil!) that reflects visual images.

A mirror image follows the same form and movementBUT

A mirror image is also OPPOSITE and RELATIVE!Left is right. Right is left.The device can influence the reflected image.

Literary MirrorsCharacters who have similar form and/or function, but oppose each other in some significant way

Foil and MirrorAlthough traditionally,foil=opposite and mirror=same

These terms are indelibly related and perhaps more synonym than antonym.

In any case, they…• add depth to stories • allow us to appreciate characters and

situations• reveal theme

Concluding Connections

Heat soothes in cold weather……a cool breeze is a summer delight.

A starry night against a dark sky is a brilliant treat for our vision.

Without the other, one holds less meaning and power.