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Glossary

Trope: GCSE English Definition

Deb Orrock

Written by: Deb Orrock

Reviewed by: Nick Redgrove

Last updated

Contents

  1. 1. What is a trope?
  2. 2. Why do writers use tropes?
  3. 3. Example of a trope
  4. 4. Revision resources to ace your exams

What is a trope?

In GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language, a trope is a figurative or symbolic use of language that conveys meaning beyond its literal meaning. It often refers to common themes, motifs or rhetorical devices used in literature and speech. Examples include metaphors, similes, irony and hyperbole.

Why do writers use tropes?

Writers use tropes to make their writing more vivid and engaging. Tropes help to enhance storytelling and add layers of meaning beyond the literal words on the page. They can create vivid imagery and help connect with the reader's emotions by tapping into universal themes and experiences.

Example of a trope

In Macbeth, Shakespeare uses the trope of darkness as a symbol of evil. For example:

"Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires." — Act 1, Scene 4

Here, Macbeth compares his ambition and murderous intent to darkness, reinforcing the themes of deceit and moral corruption.

Revision resources to ace your exams

Learn how to explore a writer's use of tropes, and how to use them in your own creative writing, by using our detailed GCSE revision notes.

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes

GCSE English Language Revision Notes

For more literary techniques, check out our list of 127 top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.

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Author
Reviewer
Deb Orrock

Author: Deb Orrock

Expertise: English Content Creator

Deb is a graduate of Lancaster University and The University of Wolverhampton. After some time travelling and a successful career in the travel industry, she re-trained in education, specialising in literacy. She has over 16 years’ experience of working in education, teaching English Literature, English Language, Functional Skills English, ESOL and on Access to HE courses. She has also held curriculum and quality manager roles, and worked with organisations on embedding literacy and numeracy into vocational curriculums. She most recently managed a post-16 English curriculum as well as writing educational content and resources.

Nick Redgrove

Author: Nick Redgrove

Expertise: English Senior Content Creator

Nick is a graduate of the University of Cambridge and King’s College London. He started his career in journalism and publishing, working as an editor on a political magazine and a number of books, before training as an English teacher. After nearly 10 years working in London schools, where he held leadership positions in English departments and within a Sixth Form, he moved on to become an examiner and education consultant. With more than a decade of experience as a tutor, Nick specialises in English, but has also taught Politics, Classical Civilisation and Religious Studies.

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