Question

In Grendel, what poetic device is used in the phrase "stand stock-still" ?

Answer 1

The poetic device used in the phrase "stand stock-still" in Grendel is alliteration. Alliteration, is the literaty device which refers to the repetition of identical initial consonant sounds in successive or closely associated syllables. In this particulat phrase, the cluster "st" is repeated in three consecutive words. As a method of linking words for effect, alliteration is also known as head rhyme or initial rhyme.

There is one specialised form of alliteration called Symmetrical Alliteration.

Answer 2

The poetic device used here is alliteration. Alliteration is when you repeat a single sound or a cluster of sounds at the beginning of consecutive words. In this case, it is the "s" that is repeated.