Literary Devices

Satire

A genre of literature that uses humor, exaggeration, and irony to criticize or mock individuals, society, or politics.

symbolism

The idea that one thing (like an object, color, or animal) represents something else, usually a deeper, more abstract idea. For example, a red heart isn't just a shape; it symbolizes love

analogy

A comparison between two things that highlights their similarities, often used to explain or clarify a concept. Example: as sly as a fox.

irony

A contrast between expectation and reality. Example: A fire station burning down.

allusion

A figure of speech that makes an indirect or passing reference to a person, place, event, or artistic work. Example: "I'm telling you, this math test is going to be my Waterloo."

personification

A figure of speech in which non-human objects, animals, or abstract concepts are given human traits, emotions, or intentions. Example: "That piece of cake is calling my name."

archetype

An original model, a universal template, or a perfect, textbook example of a person, thing, or pattern. Example: the hero, the villain, the quest, rags to riches, the outlaw, and the caregiver.

Metaphor

A figure of speech that directly compares two unrelated things by stating one thing actually is another. Does not use like or as. Example: "Time is a thief" and "She has a heart of gold."

Simile

A figure of speech that directly compares two different things to highlight a shared quality, making descriptions more vivid and relatable. Uses like or as. Example: "As brave as a lion," "Sleeps like a log," and "Like a bull in a China shop."

imagery

Vivid, descriptive language that appeals to the human senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. Example: "The golden sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with streaks of vibrant orange and deep pink."