Literary Terms Set #4 Flashcards
Archetype
Basic prototype of a character, action, or situation, from which copies are made and altered
Atmosphere/mood
The vibe/emotions inspired by a work, often established in the opening scene
Bathos
When a work devolves from deep/passionate writing to weakened/insignificant argument; often used as humor
Canon
An accepted traditional collection of literary works
Chiasmus
Criss-cross; one for all and all for one
Epigraph
A quotation before the work begins to suggest the theme of what’s to come
Malapropism
Using a similar-sounding but incorrect word, often providing humor
Mimesis
An example of a human action being represented in a new medium/material
Neologism
A made-up word/phrase
Pathos
When a writer makes the audience feel empathy/pity/etc.
Satire
An attack/criticism of society in some way, usually with humor
Tautology
Redundant phrase; “armed gunman”
Theme
Universal lesson, key idea
Tone
The writer’s attitude towards a subject
Understatement
Downplaying a situation, sometimes for humorous purposes; “eh my leg got cut off but whatever”
Voice
The author’s writing style/personality
