AP Language Notes Day 6

Question 1

In writing or speech, the deliberate repetition of the first part of the sentence in order to achieve an artistic effect is known as Anaphora. Anaphora, possibly the oldest literary device, has its roots in Biblical Psalms used to emphasize certain words or phrases. Gradually, Elizabethan and Romantic writers brought this device into practice.

Answer 1

Anaphora

Question 2

It is derived from a Greek word that means turning upon, which indicates the same word returns at the end of each sentence, Epistrophe is a stylistic device that can be defined as the repetition of phrases or words at the end of the clauses or sentences. It is also called epiphora.

Answer 2

Epistrophe

Question 3

It is derived from a Greek word asyndeton which means unconnected. It is a
stylistic device used in literature and poetry to intentionally eliminate conjunctions between the
phrases and in the sentence, yet maintain the grammatical accuracy. This literary tool helps in
reducing the indirect meaning of the phrase and presents it in a concise form. Asyndeton helps in
speeding up the rhythm of words. Mostly this technique is employed in speech but can be used
in written works too.

Answer 3

Asyndeton

Question 4

The term comes from a Greek word meaning “bound together”. It
makes use of coordinating conjunctions like “and”, “or”, “but” and “nor” (mostly and and or)
which are used to join successive words, phrases or clauses in such a way that these conjunctions
are even used where they might have been omitted.

Answer 4

Polysyndeton