AP Language Notes 53-57

Question 1

grimly mocking, sarcastic, satirical, mocking in a humorous manner. This is one of those
“TONE” words that describe writing that fits the meaning.

Answer 1

Sardonic

Question 2

It is a technique employed by writers to expose and criticize foolishness and corruption
of an individual or a society by using humor, irony, exaggeration or ridicule. It intends to improve
humanity by criticizing its follies and foibles. A writer in a satire uses fictional characters, which
stand for real people, to expose and condemn their corruption.

Answer 2

Satire

Question 3

relating to or involving strongly critical, controversial, or disputatious writing or speech.
“a polemical essay” could be any of the following (synonyms)
critical, hostile, bitter, polemic, virulent, vitriolic, venomous, caustic, trenchant, cutting, acerbic, sardoni
c, sarcastic, scathing, sharp, incisive, devastating

Answer 3

Polemical

Question 4

It is a word, phrase, or statement which contains more
than one meaning. Skilled writers use ambiguity with purpose and intent. HOWEVER…most
students who are just learning about language use it without thought and it detracts from their
writing. Here is a good example of purposeful use to “tag” a teenager speaking…what is
ambiguous in this sentence?

Answer 4

Ambiguity

Question 5

It is also known as universal symbol, may be a character, a theme, a symbol or
even a setting. Many literary critics are of the opinion that archetypes, which have a common and
recurring representation in a particular human culture or entire human race, shape the structure and
function of a literary work.

Answer 5

Archetype