Indirect speech
A representation of speech paraphrased in the narrator's words, using reported clauses. For example, 'She said that she loved him' reports her speech indirectly.
Real World
In 'Pride and Prejudice', Austen frequently uses indirect speech to summarise Lady Catherine's overbearing speeches, distancing readers from her voice and subtly mocking her pretension through narratorial control.
Exam Focus
Identify indirect speech and analyse what the narrator's paraphrase reveals about their attitude — avoid simply spotting it without exploring the effect of mediation.
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