Literary Forms Flashcards
Novel
A long prose narrative
Novella
A shorter novel
Short Story
A short prose narrative with a contained theme and plot
Legend
A story perhaps based on a truth which becomes exaggerated and fantastical over years of retelling
Myth
A traditional story, usually involving supernatural beings and/or events
Fable
A brief moral story, often with animals as the main characters
Allegory
A complete narrative of characters, places, and events that stand for an abstract concept
Anecdote
A short and amusing retelling of an event
Tall Tale
An anecdote with unbelievable and exaggerated elements
Character Sketch
A detailed description and study of a person or character
Epic Poem
A lengthy narrative poem, often following a hero’s journey
Ballad
A poem or song passed down generations; tells a story in a series of short stanzas
Lyric
A poem that expresses personal emotions, usually set to music
Sonnet
A poem of 14 lines; romantic love is a common topic
Ode
A poetic tribute to a specific subject (person, place, thing)
Elegy
A lamenting poem that reflects on a dead person’s legacy
Comedy
A play with a comical or satirical tone; usually ends with a dance or a marriage
Tragedy
A serious, emotional play with a realistic or unhappy ending
Informative/Explanatory Essay
An essay that provides information on or explains a particular subject
Analytical Essay
An essay that breaks down and gives an opinion on a particular subject
Editorial
A short opinion piece published in a magazine or newspaper
Speech
A formal address written for delivery in front of an audience
Journal/Diary Entry
A personal, private record of an event
Letter
A written communication between people
