GCSE English Literature · key term

Dramatic foil

Definition

A character whose contrasting qualities help reveal those of another character.

Used by AQA and Eduqas

Paper 1

The couples act as dramatic foils: their differences help us judge the strengths and weaknesses of each courtship.
Revise: Love and marriage

Component 1, Component 2

A character whose similarities and differences help reveal another character’s qualities.

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Banquo acts as a dramatic foil: both men receive attractive predictions, but their reactions differ.

A contrast between characters that highlights their different attitudes, qualities or choices.