Literary Devices Flashcards
Alliteration
The repetition of consonant sounds within close proximity.
Simile
Comparison using like or as
Metaphor
Comparison without like or as
Onomatopoeia
Words that sound like the sound it makes (boom)
Personification
Where inanimate objects or abstract concepts are directly given human thoughts, actions and qualities.
Imagery
Language which describes something in detail, using words to substitute for and create sensory stimulation, including visual, sound, taste, smell and touch imagery
Situational Irony
the contrast between what happens and what was expected (weatherman in rain without umbrella)
Dramatic Irony
Where the audience or reader is aware of something important, of which the characters in the story are not aware.
Verbal Irony
Where the meaning is intended to be the exact opposite of what the words actually mean. (sarcasam)
Characterization
The author’s means of conveying to the reader a character’s personality, life history, values, physical attributes, etc. Can be direct or indirect.
Allusion
A reference to history or another text (piece of literature, mythology, movie, etc) that makes readers draw connections between the two. (They call him a Grinch because he hates Christmas songs)
Foreshadowing
Where future events in a story, or perhaps the outcome, are suggested by the author before they happen.
Hyperbole
An extreme over-exaggeration, often to the point of ridiculousness.
Juxtaposition
Placing two things side by side to highlight their differences forcing the reader to reconsider the meaning of the text through the contrasting images, ideas, motifs, etc (It was the best of the worst times)
Pathetic Fallacy
Giving emotions to non-human things, typically associated with nature and the weather, that reflect the mood of the characters (The gentle breeze whispered secrets)
Repetition
Where a specific word, phrase, or structure is repeated several times, to emphasize a particular idea
Symbolism
The use of specific objects or images to represent abstract ideas (dove=peace)
