EoY Exam Study Notes: Literary devices

Motif

• A repeated element with symbolic meaning.

  • Example: Repeated images of darkness in Macbeth.

Narrative Structure

• How the story is built (linear, flashbacks, etc.).

  • Example: In media res, which starts in the middle of the action.

Personification

• Giving human traits to non-human things.

  • Example: "The wind whispered through the trees."

Point of View:

• The narrator's position.

  • Example: First-person: "I saw the shadow…"

Simile

• A comparison using "like" or "as".

  • Example: "He was as fast as lightning."

Symbolism

• A concrete object representing an idea.

  • Example: A dove symbolizes peace.

Allegory

• A story with a deeper meaning (often moral or political).

  • Example: Lord of the Flies is an allegory about human nature

• Alliteration

• Repetition of initial consonant sounds.

  • Example: "She sells seashells."

• Allusion

• A reference to another work or idea.

  • Example: "He was a real Romeo" (Shakespeare).

Atmosphere

• The mood or feeling of a text.

  • Example: A haunted house creates a gloomy atmosphere.

• Characterization

• How an author presents a character.

  • Example: "She always held her head high and spoke softly."

Conflict

• A struggle (internal or external).

  • Example: A character debating a tough choice (internal conflict).

• Diction

• Word choice.

  • Example: "Youthful" vs. "immature" - both mean young, but feel different.

Foreshadowing

• Hints about what will happen later.

  • Example: Dark clouds before a tragic event.

Imagery

• Descriptive language appealing to the senses.

  • Example: "The scent of fresh rain filled the air."

• Irony

• When the opposite of what's expected occurs.

  • Example: A fire station burns down.

Metaphor

• A direct comparison.

  • Example: "Time is a thief."

Theme

• The central message or insight.

  • Example: The dangers of unchecked power.

Tone

• The author's attitude (sarcastic, hopeful, somber, etc.).

Bandwagon

• Suggests everyone is doing it.

  • Example: "Join the millions who've switched to EcoBank!"

Ethos

• Appeal to credibility or authority.

  • Example: "As a doctor, I recommend this medication."

Plain folks

• Presents the speaker as an average, relatable person.

  • Example: "I'm just a mom trying to do what's best for my kids."

Pathos

• Appeal to emotion.

  • Example: An ad showing a crying child to raise awareness.

Celebrity endorsement/testimonial

• Uses a famous person or expert to support a product.

  • Example: "Beyoncé uses this skincare line - shouldn't you?"

Logos

• Appeal to logic and reasoning.

  • Example: "Studies show 90% of users improved after one week."

Inclusive Language

• Use of we, you, our to connect with the audience.

  • Example: "We all deserve a brighter future."

Anaphora/Repetition

• Repeating words or phrases for emphasis.

  • Example: "We must fight. We must resist. We must prevail."

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Rhetorical question

• A question asked for effect, not an answer.

  • Example: "How much longer will we stay silent?"

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Bribery

• Offers something "extra" to persuade.

  • Example: "Buy one, get one free!" or "Free gift with purchase."

Glittering Generalities

• Uses vague, emotionally appealing phrases.

  • Example: "Experience true freedom and happiness!"

Weasel words

• Words that seem meaningful but are intentionally vague.

  • Example: "Helps fight signs of aging" (but doesn't promise results).

Scapegoating

• Blaming a person/group unfairly for a problem.

  • Example: "Our economy is struggling because of immigrants."

Imagery

• Vivid language that appeals to the senses.

  • Example: "The sizzling bacon crackled in the pan."

symbolism

• An object or image that stands for an idea.

  • Example: A dove representing peace or a green leaf for sustainability.

Timing

• Using current events or urgency to make an argument stronger.

  • Example: "Act now-offer ends at midnight!"

Connotation/Diction

• Word choice used to influence emotional response.

  • Example: "Freedom fighters" vs. "rebels."

Things to keep in mind when analysing advertising

• Product

• Context & Culture

• Audience

• Values

• Text

• Emotion & Mood

• Visuals & Layout

• Subtext