In Matthew Arnold's poem "Dover Beach," which literary device is notably used?

In "Dover Beach," Matthew Arnold employs onomatopoeia effectively to evoke the auditory experience of the sea, enhancing the vividness of the poem. This literary device aligns closely with the poem's themes, as the sounds of the sea represent both the beauty and the melancholic aspect of human existence. The sound elements create a rhythm and atmosphere that draw the reader into the scene, making the experience more immersive.

While the poem does contain other literary devices, the focus on onomatopoeia is particularly striking, as it directly connects auditory imagery with the poem's exploration of human emotions and the shifting nature of life and love. Arnold’s use of sounds amplifies the emotional depth of the poem and underscores the contrasts between the serene beauty of nature and the tumultuousness of human experience.