What is Anachronism in literature?
“Anachronism” is a literary term used to describe a person, object, or idea that is out of its proper time period in a literary work.
In literature, anachronisms are often used for comedic effect, to highlight a character’s ignorance, or to create anachronistic tension. Anachronisms can also be used to comment on the modern world by presenting it in a historical context.
Example of anachronism:
In Shakespeare’s play “Julius Caesar,” the character Brutus uses the phrase “Peace, count the clock” to signal the time of night. However, the mechanical clock wasn’t invented until centuries after the time period in which the play is set. The use of the phrase is an anachronism and highlights the character’s lack of knowledge about the time period.
Another example can be found in the film “Gladiator,” where the character of Maximus wears a wristwatch in a scene set in ancient Rome. This is an anachronism that was likely a mistake made during the filming, but it is still noticeable and can take the viewer out of the story.
Anachronisms can also be used intentionally for comedic effect, as in the film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” where the characters encounter a knight who claims to have a “flesh wound” despite losing both of his arms. This anachronistic use of modern medical language is humorous and adds to the film’s overall comedic tone.
