AP Lit Literary Devices Flashcards
repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words
alliteration
using symbols to represent ideas or qualities
symbolism
comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as”
metaphor
repetition of similar grammatical structures for effect
parallelism
exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally
hyperbole
the author’s attitude toward the subject
tone
central idea or message of a work
theme
choice of words, especially in terms of their effectiveness and style
diction
arrangement of words and phrases to create sentences
syntax
placing two elements side by side to present a comparison or contrast
juxtaposition
descriptive language appealing to the senses
imagery
helps track recurring symbols, images, or ideas that reinforce themes, allowing for a richer interpretation of a work’s message.
motif
a narrative style that presents a character’s continuous flow of thoughts
stream of consciousness
a combination of contradictory terms
oxymoron
a contrast between expectations and reality (situational, verbal, dramatic)
irony
