Literary devices are the foundation of any written work, they provide a connection from the writer to the reader through language. Details emphasized through literary devices increase conflict within the text and often serve to reference real-life issues. In Reginald Rose's screenplay Twelve Angry Men, the story of the jury's life-or-death choice and underlined prejudices is told using images and metaphors. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayRose uses imagery describing the jury room in a literal and atmospheric way to illustrate the burden the twelve jurors have. Despite deciding on a man's life, many jurors do not deem the case worthy of discussion, considering it open and shut. “We don't owe him anything. He had a fair trial, didn't he?” the disinterest during the discussion of the case defines the irreverent attitude of some jurors. It's clear that the diversity Rose creates within the jury brings opposing opinions, further developing the story's conflict. The characters' personalities also present the difficulty of being open-minded and impartial when it comes to the law. Juror 10 believes there is no reason why he should be forced to spend his time in a small, uncomfortable room for someone he doesn't know personally. Furthermore, metaphors can span a concept, creating a comparison between two subjects. Rose uses this literary device to touch on real-life situations by introducing them into the screenplay. One of the metaphors is the heat inside the room, it symbolizes the tension between the jurors and is a twist on the saying "things are getting hot in here", without saying it point blank. Another metaphor is the closed door of the jury room, which symbolizes how the jurors are physically and figuratively trapped, due to their responsibilities and stubborn opinions. “You come here with your heart bleeding all over because of the slum kids and injustice and you make up all these crazy stories, and you have some soft-hearted old ladies listening to you. Well, I'm sick of it! What's the matter with you people? The boy is guilty!” Although most of the jurors are now engaged in discussing the case, Juror 3 is adamant about his initial opinion and refuses to listen to anything but. Juror 3 also uses his own metaphor, accusing Juror 8 of being overly sentimental. Rose points out that instead of sitting down and engaging in a serious, polite conversation, Juror 3 becomes enraged and prolongs the final verdict because his personal opinions cloud his judgment, even though he wants to get it over with. He continues to lie: This is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Literary tools are based on a writer's story and ideas and allow for a better understanding of the meanings within the text. Reginald Rose uses imagery and metaphors to convey the prejudice and intensity surrounding the justice system. This writing technique enhances the telling of a story by developing themes and concepts for the reader to analyze while adding depth to literary pieces. Works Cited Rose, Reginald. Twelve angry men. Chicago Drama Publishing., 1957.