Literary Elements Flashcards
Alliteration
The repetition of the consonant sound in order to emphasize an idea.
Allegory
A form of an extended metaphor in which objects and characters are equated with the meanings that lie outside of the narrative itself. They are often simplistic stories that contain important lessons.
Allusion
A brief reference to a person event or place real or fictional or to a work of literature. There are 3 main types: biblical, literary and historical
Characterization
The method used by a writer to develop a character. The method includes (1) revealing the characters actions, (2) revealing the characters thoughts/words and (3) revealing the reactions of other characters. Can also be direct or indirect.
Foreshadowing
The use of hints or clues to suggest what will happen later in literature.
Hyperbole
Immense exaggeration used for impact.
Imagery
Language that evokes one or all of the 5 senses: sight, sound, taste, smell or touch.
Irony
An implied discrepancy between expectation and reality or what is said and what is meant.
Metaphor
Comparison between two seemingly unlike things.
Motif
Recurrent thematic idea or element in an artistic or literary work.
Oxymoron
Placing two contradictory words together.
Paradox
Placing to opposing ideas together to reveal a truth which at first seems contradictory.
Pathetic fallacy
When nature or the environment reflects tone theme or character development.
Personification
Giving human attributes to animals or objects.
Simile
Comparison between two seemingly unlike things using like or as
