Scandal at Barchester (metaphor)
In the narrative, the "scandal at Barchester" is being compared to a person who "lies" to damage the reputation of someone else. This metaphor suggests that the scandal surrounding Mr. Harding is a malicious force that has its personality, intent, and agency. Thus, it is used to illustrate the power of gossip and rumor to damage the reputation of innocent people. It denotes that gossip is like a malicious lie that can spread quickly and cause harm. The metaphor also suggests that gossip is an unreliable source of information and that it should be treated with caution. By comparing the scandal to a liar, Trollope is highlighting the danger of believing in rumors and hearsay without verifying the facts. Moreover, by comparing it to a person, he accentuates the power and malevolence of the scandal and its ability to harm Mr. Harding's reputation and career.
Indomitable Cockerel (metaphor)
Trollope uses the metaphor of a cockerel preparing for combat to describe the archdeacon's confidence in his cause and determination to fight for it. The imagery of a cockerel sharpening its spurs, shaking its feathers, and erecting its comb conveys the archdeacon's strength and courage as he prepares to defend the income of the precentors at Barchester. This metaphor highlights the archdeacon's unwavering faith in the justice of his cause and his willingness to fight for it, no matter the cost. Also, the comparison to a missionary in Africa and a sister of mercy illustrates the archdeacon's dedication to his cause, as well as the sense of holiness and purpose that he feels in defending it. The metaphor of the cock preparing for combat is a powerful one, as it illustrates the archdeacon's resolve to protect his church.
Tower of Strength (metaphor)
The narrator uses the metaphor of a "tower of strength" to describe the logic of Mr. Harding's son-in-law. This comparison suggests that the son-in-law's logic is strong, reliable, and powerful, like a tower. It indicates that Mr. Harding has great faith in the son-in-law's arguments and that his confidence is so strong that it is almost like a physical structure that can protect him from any criticism or doubt. The metaphor also denotes that this logic has become a source of comfort and security for Mr. Harding when he is feeling uneasy about the rumor he has heard about his salary. This metaphor helps to illustrate Mr. Harding's loyalty to the son-in-law and his faith in his arguments, and it expresses the strength of the son-in-law's logic.
Fright (simile)
The narrator uses the simile "felt like a bird fascinated by gazing on a snake" to describe the warden's feeling when looking at the archdeacon. This simile is used to express the warden's feeling of fear and helplessness in the face of the archdeacon's power and influence. The comparison of the archdeacon to a snake indicates that the archdeacon is sly and dangerous, like a snake that can strike without warning. It stresses the warden's sense of danger and his inability to do anything to protect himself from the archdeacon's wrath. By paralleling the warden to a bird, the narrator is suggesting that the warden is small, powerless, and vulnerable in the face of the archdeacon's authority.
Hot Steel But No Heat (metaphor)
Another metaphor used in the narration is "coruscations flew from him; glittering sparkles, as from hot steel, but no heat; no cold heart was ever cheered by warmth from him, no unhappy soul ever dropped a portion of its burden at his door." This metaphor is used to compare Sir Abraham's actions to hot steel. Just like hot steel, he sparkles and glitters, but he does not give off any warmth or comfort to those around him. He remains cold and distant, and no one is able to find solace in his presence. This metaphor highlights the idea that Sir Abraham is successful and admired, but does not provide any meaningful connections or relationships with the people around him.
