Examples in the Book of Mormon of Literary Aspects

Example #1. Note this example is paying attention to Characterization:

·         Alma 1:1-9, An important character (Nehor) is introduced in the story line. The audience is told what the character looks like (a large man noted for much strength), why he was there (he had become prideful), and what he had done (Nehor had taught false doctrine to those around him and killed an old man who challenged his belief (Gideon)). The man (Nehor) was good-looking, popular, wore expensive clothes, handed out money, and told the crowd that they were all just fine and that they had nothing to worry about: they would all be saved eternally. Then, he killed an older man who disagreed with him.

Example #2 Note this example is paying attention to Diction:

·         Alma 5, 6, and 7, A well-known man (Alma), travels to different cities (starting at Zarahemla and on to Gideon) speaking to the people in each of the places. Alma uses strong informal language which is powerful in carrying the message he intends to the audience (…do ye suppose that such a one can have a place to sit down with…the holy prophets…I say unto you, Nay…) A sincere expressive attitude was voiced (crying unto them to repent) and a style is portrayed through the words (asking multiple questions [Alma 5:6]) to try to persuade the cities of his argument (to repent and come unto Christ). He places great emphasis upon the audience and chooses an informal, sincere choice of words to reach them, presenting personal repeated questions in an attempt to shake their souls and beliefs.

Example #3 This example is looking closely at the Setting:

·         Alma 1-7, The people were accustomed to being led by a king and were convinced by their aging king to set up a new method of being governed, so they are trying it. They set up a system of judges and choose Alma as Chief Judge. They system is challenged by a popular man, Nehor, who is also a murderer, and the judges decide on the verdict and punishment. Then, some folks decide they do want a king and challenge the government. This system is defeated by the voice of the people, and a rebellion occurs, defeating the king system. Still, the folks that want a king, mark themselves and join forces with another people and create a war. The folks favoring judges to win, and there is peace. The Chief Judge is more concerned with religion, so gives up his seat in government to lead the people in a religious crusade instead.

Example #4 note that this reference is focusing on the Theme:

·         Alma 1-7, the man in charge (Alma) lives his life. His father and former king just died, so he is a leader now. His greatest concern is the welfare of his people. He tries to take care of them first in a political position, but sees a greater need. He is most concerned for their souls, so he gives up his political ambitions and completely devotes his time to teaching them spiritually. Almas devotes his time, energy and means to reach his people through peace and war, through pride and humility, that they need a Redeemer. After he teaches them the need for a Redeemer, he teaches them about the Savior and of the promises that come through the Christ.

Reviewing a fellow student's blog post

Example #1: Note this example is paying attention to the diction or speech:

·         Mary Ellsworths post she had said “The rush in my tone is not normal.” As she spoke to her siblings she was very concerned. In my scripture section Alma had been very concerned about his people and showed strong informal language which is powerful in carrying the message he intends to the audience.

Example #1. Note this example is paying attention to Characterization:

·         Clark Nielson posted General Moroni, on a General Level on his blog and expressed one of the janitors that he had worked with very vividly. I felt like I could even notice this guy if he was passing me on the streets. At the beginning of Alma a man named Nehor is also explained very strongly as well and he is noted to be a big guy who was noted for his own strength. I noticed that as I read Clark Nielsons post I saw that the janitors characteristics were noted with each little distinction that made him who he was. 

Example #3 This example is looking closely at the Setting:

·         In Alma 1-7 the chief judge gives up something very important to him and follows another scenario that he seems to be much more important at that time. In the blog post  That pivotal morning by Emily Lewis she states that as she had left a place that meant so much to her at that time but just as this chief judge had done she had gone where she needed to be or where it seemed to be most fitting for her at that time.