Literary Elements Flashcards

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0
Q

Alliteration

A

The repetition of the consonant sound in order to emphasize an idea.

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1
Q

Allegory

A

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.

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2
Q

Allusion

A

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

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3
Q

Characterization

A

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.

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4
Q

Foreshadowing

A

The use of hints or clues to suggest what will happen later in literature.

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5
Q

Hyperbole

A

Immense exaggeration used for impact.

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6
Q

Imagery

A

Language that evokes one or all of the 5 senses: sight, sound, taste, smell or touch.

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7
Q

Irony

A

An implied discrepancy between expectation and reality or what is said and what is meant.

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8
Q

Metaphor

A

Comparison between two seemingly unlike things.

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9
Q

Motif

A

Recurrent thematic idea or element in an artistic or literary work.

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10
Q

Oxymoron

A

Placing two contradictory words together.

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11
Q

Paradox

A

Placing to opposing ideas together to reveal a truth which at first seems contradictory.

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12
Q

Pathetic fallacy

A

When nature or the environment reflects tone theme or character development.

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13
Q

Personification

A

Giving human attributes to animals or objects.

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14
Q

Simile

A

Comparison between two seemingly unlike things using like or as

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15
Q

Symbol

A

An object or action that represents something more than its literal meaning.

16
Q

Theme

A

The general idea insight or lesson about a life that a writer wishes to express