Comus, the masque, features vivid descriptions, such as of the corrupted followers of Comus: "I have seen them [sensualists] pace / Mailing their starved gawds, and peacocking in pride, / Not without hopes to merit Heaven by prayer." Identify the figure of speech in "peacocking in pride" and explain its critical function.
1
Simile, directly comparing their pride to a peacock's display.
2
Metaphor, suggesting their proud actions are a vain and ostentatious display.
3
Metonymy, where "peacocking" represents their elaborate clothing.
4
Irony, as their pride is in stark contrast to their stated hopes of earning heaven.