ap notes 56-57

Question 1

Ambiguity

Answer 1

: Ambiguity or fallacy of ambiguity 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? Each of us saw her duck – It is not clear whether the word “duck” refers to an action of ducking or a
duck that is a bird.

Question 2

Archetype

Answer 2

An archetype, 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.