Grammar Lesson Two

Grammar Lesson Two: Parallel Structure

Using parallel structure correctly can make writing memorable. Look at the following example from a famous source:

Veni, vidi, vici. I came, I saw, I conquered. ---Julius Caesar.

Parallel structure refers to the matching of grammatical elements within a sentence. A sentence structured with grammatically parallel elements will most likely be clear, stylish and balanced.

Listen for the pleasing rhythm of the sentence, the logical balance of ideas and the repetition of form. Simply "match" the appropriate structures to create a delightful sentence!

Practice exercise:

The following sentences are incorrect. Re-write using proper parallel structure.

Remember you might have to totally re-cast the form of the sentence to make it read correctly. Don't be afraid of re-writing!

1. Dante became lost in the woods, was threatened by three animals and he felt overcome with fear.

2. The leopard represents malice, the lion represents violence, unchecked passions are symbolized by the she-wolf.

3. Dante was terrified of the dark wood, the three beasts, and to see the swarming insects.

4. Virgil is a symbol of reason and Beatrice has the function of representing divine love.

5. The sinners in the Vestibule are pursued by wasps, maggots and a lot of bees follow them.

6. Dante also employs the character of Beatrice in the poem. She symbolizes the divine love of God, the power of faith, and hoping.

7. The sinners in the Vestibule are tortured by insects who chase them, sting them, and are sucking the pus out of their sores.

ANSWERS!

Possible answers for parallel structure exercise:

1. Dante became lost in the woods, was threatened by three animals and was overcome with fear.

2. The leopard represents malice, the lion represents violence, and the she-wolf represents unchecked passions.

3. Dante was terrified of the dark wood, the three beasts, and the swarming insects.

4. Virgil is a symbol of reason and Beatrice is a symbol of divine love.

5. The sinners in the Vestibule are pursued by wasps, maggots and bees.

6. Dante also employs the character of Beatrice in the poem. She symbolizes the divine love of God, the power of faith, and comfort of hope.

7. The sinners in the Vestibule are tortured by insects who chase them, sting them, and suck the pus out of their sores.

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