Literary Devices Flashcards
Paradox
A statement that appears contradictory, but may reveal a deeper truth. Example less is more.
Eutrepismus
One of the most common rhetorical devices, simply the act of stating points in the form of a number list example first, second
Anadiplosis
Rhetorical device in which repeated word or phrases used, but at the end of one sentence or clause, and at the beginning of the next example, she is being none of your flesh blood, your flesh and blood has not offended the king
Anadiplosis
Rhetorical device in which repeated word or phrases used, but at the end of one sentence or clause, and at the beginning of the next example, she is being none of your flesh blood, your flesh and blood has not offended the king
Polysyndeton
The use of multiple conjunctions in close succession for emphasis example the party was filled with laughter, music, and dancing and joy.
Asyndeton
The lack of conjunctions in a series of related clauses to create faster pace or more concise expression example, the party was filled with laughter, music, dancing, joy.
Alliteration
The repetition of constant sounds at the beginning of words example Sally sells seashells
Epistrophe
The repetition of a word or phrase at the end of a successive clauses or sentences example where now? Who now? When now?
Rhetorical question
A question asked for effect or to make a point rather than to get an answer example smooth move huh?
Repetition
Repeating words or phrases for emphasis
Euphemism
Substituting a mild or less direct expression for a harsh or blunt one
Anaphora
Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of a successive sentences or clauses example repetition of I Have a Dream at the beginning of each sentence.
Parallelism
Similar grammatical structures, phrases or sentences to create a balanced and harmonious effect in their writing example she wanted to travel the world, to learn new languages, experience, different cultures.
Litotes
An understatement in which a double negative is used
Pathos
An appeal to the audiences of emotions make the reader feel certain way about a subject, person or idea.
Logos
An appeal to logic and reason, example, scientific studies, and statistical data, and logical reasoning
Metaphor
A comparison between two unlike things without using like or as
Simile
A comparison between two unlike things using like or as
Imagery
Vivid and descriptive language that appears to the senses site sound taste touch smell
Symbolism
The use of symbols to represent abstract ideas or concepts
Theme
The underlying meaning or moral of the story, reflecting, universal truth and values.
Motif
Recurring thematic or symbolic element that contributes to the overall meaning mood or message of a work
Allusion
A reference in literary work to a well-known event person place or artistic work the writer relies on the readers familiarity with what is mentioned
Foreshadowing
Future events in a story, or perhaps the outcome suggested by the author before they happen
Personification
A attributing human qualities or characteristics to objects or animals
Hyperbole
Exaggerated statements, or claims not meant to be taken literally
Oxymoron
A combination of contradictory or opposite words for dramatic effect
Flashback
A narrative technique that takes the reader back in time to an earlier event
Juxtaposition
Placing two or more elements side-by-side in order to highlight their contrast or similarities
Pun
Illiterate device that plays on the multiple meanings of a word or on words that sounds similar, but have different meanings
Pun
Illiterate device that plays on the multiple meanings of a word or on words that sounds similar, but have different meanings
