Conventions Flashcards
A story, character, place, or event is used to convey a hidden meaning, typically moral or political, about real-world events or issues (e.g. Duncan’s death is an allegory for the risks of killing your king).
Allegory
An indirect reference to another event, person or work which the writer assumes the reader is familiar.
Allusion
An imitation where particular notable characteristics are exaggerated to a comic or grotesque effect.
Caricature
A division or contrast between two opposed things.
Dichotomy
A perfect example of a specific quality.
Epitome
A device in which an author suggests certain plot developments that might come later in the play.
Foreshadowing
Ugly and distorted, physically or figuratively, in a way that is comic or repulsive.
Grotesque
A system of beliefs and ideals, typically forming a framework for a political policy or a religion.
Ideology
Use of language which is visually descriptive or symbolic.
Imagery
A particular type of character, event, or setting that is used frequently in stories (e.g. ‘The Damsel In Distress’ is a trope).
Trope
Parallel structure that uses opposites to create emphasis. (For example: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”).
Antithesis
A dramatic device whereby a character stands alone on stage and addresses the audience, giving voice to their deepest thoughts and feelings.
Soliloquy
A moment in a play when a character makes a critical discovery, such as the tragic hero’s sudden awareness of a real situation usually as a result of their downfall.
Anagnorisis
The process of letting go of or providing liberation from, strong or suppressed emotions.
Catharsis
A character with qualities that are in contrast with another character. (For example, Rosaline and Juliet, or Macbeth and Banquo).
Foil
A character’s tragic flaw.
Hamartia
An exaggerated self-pride or self-confidence which often leads to a fatal retaliation.
Hubris
A sudden turn of events or an unexpected reversal.
Peripeteia
A character who is usually depicted as perfect and honorable yet has one ‘fatal flaw’ or hamartia.
Tragic hero
The moral, religious, and social code of Medieval knights, including bravery, honour, and courtesy.
Code of Chivalry
Denying someone their humanity, including their emotions and independent thought.
Dehumanise
The belief in Medieval Christianity that all life and matter on Earth was organised into a hierarchy by God.
Divine Order/Great Chain of Being
The belief in Christianity that the monarch of a country is chosen by God Himself to be His representative on Earth, meaning they don’t have to answer to anyone except God.
Divine Right of Kings
A front or mask that is put up to disguise something or someone’s true character.
Facade
