Loading…
30 cards
hyperbole
An exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect.
What is the effect of using a 'flashback' in a narrative?
To provide background information about events that took place before the current point of the story.
metaphor
A figure of speech that involves an implicit comparison between two unlike things.
simile
A figure of speech that compares two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'.
What is the purpose of alliteration?
To create rhythm, mood, or emphasis in a line of poetry or prose by repeating initial consonant sounds.
personification
A literary device where human qualities are attributed to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract ideas.
What does 'imagery' refer to in literature?
Descriptive language that appeals to the senses and creates mental images for the reader.
foreshadowing
A literary device used to give an indication or hint of what is to come later in the story.
irony
A contrast between expectation and reality, often highlighting the opposite of what is intended or expected.
onomatopoeia
A word that phonetically imitates the sound it describes.
What is the function of 'symbolism' in literature?
To use symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings that are different from their literal sense.
allusion
A brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance.
What is a 'motif' in literature?
A recurring element that has symbolic significance in a story, often contributing to the development of theme.
paradox
A statement that appears self-contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.
What is the role of 'tone' in a literary work?
The author's attitude or approach towards the subject matter or audience, conveyed through their writing style.
oxymoron
A figure of speech in which two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect.
What is 'anaphora' used for in literature?
To emphasize a point by repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.
juxtaposition
Placing two elements close together or side by side, often to highlight their differences.
What technique involves using an object or action to mean more than its literal meaning?
Symbolism.
allegory
A narrative in which characters and events represent abstract ideas or moral qualities.
What is a 'theme' in literature?
The central topic, subject, or message within a narrative.
synecdoche
A figure of speech in which a part is used to represent the whole or vice versa.
What is the purpose of 'satire' in literature?
To expose and criticize foolishness or corruption of an individual or society using humor, irony, or ridicule.
understatement
A figure of speech used to intentionally make a situation seem less important than it is.
What is the effect of using 'diction' in a literary work?
To create tone, mood, and atmosphere through the choice of words and style of expression.
epiphany
A moment of sudden revelation or insight experienced by a character.
What is 'stream of consciousness' in literature?
A narrative mode that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings passing through a character's mind.
anachronism
An error of chronology or timeline in a literary piece, often used for comedic or dramatic effect.
What does 'pathetic fallacy' describe?
The attribution of human emotions or characteristics to nature or inanimate objects, reflecting the mood of a character.
apostrophe
A figure of speech in which a speaker directly addresses an absent or imaginary person, or a personified abstraction.
Free forever. No credit card needed.
Ready to study English Literature — Literary Devices?
Free forever. No credit card needed.