literary devices Flashcards
metaphor
what example is given?
a direct comparison which imaginatively identifies one object with another (love is a rose)
simile
example given?
a figure of speech that makes a comparison where one object is said to be “like”or “as” another.
(she is cold as ice)
allusions
a reference to a well known character, place, story or another literary work
biblical allusion
makes a reference to the bible stories
literary allusion
makes a reference to other works in literature
historical allusion
makes a reference to any historical event or individual
mythological allusion
makes a reference to either Greek, Roman mythological stories
irony
creates a contrasts or discrepancy between what is meant or between expectations and reality
dramatic irony
situations in which some of the characters are “blind” to the fact known by the spectators/readers
situational irony
occurs when what actually happens is different from what is expected by the reader or viewer
verbal irony
this is the contrast between what is mean. Most comments are ironic
alliteration
(examp?)
the repetition of the same or similar constant sounds of the beginning of words. examp: tongue twisters
hyperbole
example?
an extreme exaggeration used for effect (a test! i dont know anything!)
litotes/melosis
intentional understatement it is opposite of a hyperbole
onomatopeia
examp?
a figure of speech in which words are used to imitate sounds to suggest their meaning (buzz buzz, beep beep)
oxymoron
two opposites or contradictory ideas to create a vivid image (bittersweet)
personification
examp?
a figure of speech in which human characteristics are given to objects, ideas, or animals (the leaves dances in the wind)
chiausmus
examp?
two phrases in which the syntrax is the same, but the placement of words is reversed (do you live at work, or work to live?)
anaphora
examp?
the deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses (every day, every night, every moment, i love)
euphemism (examp?)
a polite phrasing or expression that is used in place of a word or phrase that may otherwise be considered harsh, unpleasant/ blunt to hear ( my cat and dog passed away on the same day)
foreshadowing
gives signs, hints, or indicates beforehand what is to come in the story or play
paradox (examp)
a statement, which while seemingly contradictory or absurd may actually be well founded or true (you can save money by spending it)
pathetic fallacy
a literary device in which nature or inanimate things are described in a way that is sympathetic or prophetic about the events or the emotions of the characters
pun (examp?)
a play on words where there are two or more possible meanings (he had a lot of common sense)
