Direct Hits: Literary Terms Flashcards
Figurative/Metaphorical Language
A general term referring to language that describes a thing in terms of something else – the resemblance is FIGURATIVE, not LITERAL
Simile
An EXPLICIT(clearly stated) figure of speech that is a comparison between two essentially unlike things, usually using the two words “like” or “as”, which points out a FIGURATIVE way that two things are alike.
Metaphor
In its more narrow sense, a figure of speech in which one thing is described in terms of another using an IMPLICIT (implied) comparison, without the use of “like” or “as”
Personification
A figure of speech in which an inanimate object is given human qualities or abilities
Parallelism/Parallel Structure
A rhetorical device or SYNTACTICAL (relating to sentence structure) construction which involves using matching grammatical patterns to establish the equivalent relationship or importance of two or more items.
Literary Irony
A figure of speech in which what we say or write conveys the opposite of its literal meaning
Situational Irony
Incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the normal or expected result
Synopsis
A brief summary of the major points of a thesis, theory, story or literary work, a précis
Satire, Lampoon, Parody
A work that ridicules human vices, follies, and FOIBLES; comic criticism. Note that LAMPOON and PARODY are often used as verbs meaning to ridicule
Hyperbole
A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect; extreme exaggeration
Caricature
Visual art or descriptive writing that deliberately exaggerates distinctive features or peculiarities of a subject for comic or absurd effect.
Epic
A long narrative poem written in a grand style to celebrate the feats of a legendary hero.
Foreshadowing
A suggestion or indication that something will happen in a story; a hint that PRESAGES
Anecdote
A short account of an interesting or humorous incident
Eulogy
A LAUDATORY speech or written tribute, especially one praising someone who has died.
