Literary Devices and Identity Concepts

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key literary devices and concepts related to identity.

Polysyndeton

The deliberate use of multiple conjunctions in a sentence for emphasis.

Asyndeton

The omission of conjunctions to create a fast-paced effect.

Repetition

Repetition of words, sounds, or phrases for effect.

Anaphora

Repeating the beginning of phrases or clauses for emphasis.

Juxtaposition

Placing two ideas or images side by side to create contrast or highlight differences.

Oxymoron

A combination of contradictory words (e.g., bittersweet).

Figurative Language

Language not meant to be taken literally.

Metaphor

A figure of speech comparing two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as.'

Simile

A figure of speech comparing two unlike things using 'like' or 'as.'

Personification

Giving human traits to nonhuman things.

Alliteration

The recurrence of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.

Assonance

The recurrence of vowel sounds in nearby words.

Tone Shift (Volta)

A shift in tone, mood, or perspective in a text.

Symbolism

The use of objects, characters, or actions to represent abstract ideas.

Characterization (Direct & Indirect)

The process by which a writer reveals a character's personality, either directly or indirectly.

Irony

The contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs.

Theme (Central Idea)

The main underlying message or insight about life.

Iceberg Theory (Theory of Omission)

A style of writing that emphasizes surface details but leaves deeper meaning unstated.

Explicit

Clearly and directly stated meaning.

Implicit

Meaning that is suggested or implied rather than directly stated.

Tangible

That which can be touched or physically experienced.

Intangible

That which cannot be physically touched; abstract qualities.

Personal Identity

The unique properties that constitute the sense of 'self' and distinguish an individual from others over time.

Narrative Theory of Identity

Posits that individuals construct their sense of 'self' by creating internalized, evolving life stories from their memories and future aspirations.

External (Performative) Identity

How others perceive you based on observable traits like appearance and actions, which may not align with your inner self.

Internal (Authentic) Identity

Your deeply held sense of inner self, shaped by personal experiences, values, and beliefs.

Imagery

Language that appeals to the senses to create vivid mental pictures.

Diction

An author's deliberate choice of words to create tone, style, or effect.

Vignette

A brief scene focusing on a snapshot moment.

Flash Fiction

A very short story, often under 1,000 words, that contains a complete narrative.