Literary Terms and Essay Elements

A collection of flashcards defining literary devices, essay components, and narrative elements based on the provided lecture notes.

Hyperbole

Deliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or eect. Example: "I've told you a million times."

Metaphor

A direct comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as." Example: "Time is a thief."

Simile

A comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as."

Symbolism

When an object, character, or event represents a larger meaning or idea.

Motif

A recurring image, idea, symbol, or theme throughout a work.

Mood

The feeling or atmosphere experienced by the reader or audience.

Tone

The author's attitude toward the subject or audience.

Oxymoron

Two contradictory words placed together. Example: "deafening silence."

Soliloquy

A speech in which a character reveals thoughts aloud while alone on stage.

Theme

The central message, lesson, or insight of a work.

Figurative Language

Language that goes beyond literal meaning to create imagery or deeper understanding.

Hook

The opening statement designed to capture the reader's attention.

Thesis

The main argument or claim of an essay.

Context

Background information that helps explain a text or situation.

Evidence

Quotes, examples, or facts used to support a claim.

Analysis

Explanation of how evidence supports the thesis or argument.

Conclusion

The final section that summarizes and reinforces the main idea.

Characterization

Methods used by an author to develop a character.

Conflict

A struggle between opposing forces in a story.

Internal Conflict

A struggle occurring within a character's mind.

External Conflict

A struggle between a character and an outside force.

Foreshadowing

Hints or clues about future events.

Irony

A contrast between expectation and reality.

Verbal Irony

When a speaker says something dierent from what they mean.

Situational Irony

When the outcome diers from expectations.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows something the characters do not.

Point of View

The perspective from which a story is told.

First Person

Narrator uses "I" and participates in the story.

Third Person Limited

Narrator knows the thoughts of one character.

Third Person Omniscient

Narrator knows the thoughts of all characters.

Protagonist

The main character.

Antagonist

The force opposing the protagonist.