Short Story Lit Terms Flashcards
Conflict
The struggle found in fiction around which the plot and character development revolves. Conflict may be external or internal. Man v man Man v nature Man v self Man v society, technology
Foreshadowing
Plot device that utilizes hints and clues to suggest what will happen later in the story
Imagery
Language that evokes at least one of the five senses: seeing, hearing, tasting, smelling, touching
In order to associate a certain concept or quality with a character, setting, or action a writer may develop a recognizable pattern of imagery
Irony
An implied discrepancy between what we are led to believe will happen and what actually occurs
Verbal irony
The meaning intended by a speaker is interpreted differently by one or more characters
Dramatic irony
When the reader shares with the narrator knowledge of a situation or intention unknown by one or more of the characters
Irony of situation
When the result of circumstances is the opposite of what is reasonably expected
Oxymoron
A compressed paradox. 2 terms that are opposite/contrary
Ex. Bittersweet, living death
Personification/anthropomorphism
Giving human qualities to animals or objects
Protagonist
The central character in a literary work. In accomplishing his or her objective
Characterization
Method used by the writer to develop a character.
Showing the characters looks
Revealing the characters thoughts
Displaying the characters actions
Letting the character speak
Getting the reactions from character to said character
Protagonist
The central character in a literary work. In a complaining his or her objective the protagonist is hindered by some opposing force either human, animal, or natural.
The protagonist doesn’t have to be likable or the hero.
Antagonist
A person or force which opposes the protagonist in a literary work.
