LIT study guide

Allegory

A narrative with dual meanings—one literal and one symbolic.

Allusion

An indirect reference to a well-known work, figure, or event.

Foreshadowing

Subtle hints about future events in a narrative.

Verbal Irony

Saying the opposite of what is meant.

Situational Irony

When the outcome is different from what is expected.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows something the characters do not.

Symbolism

Using objects, characters, or actions to represent broader ideas.

Theme

The central idea or message of a work.

Meter

The rhythmic pattern in poetry determined by the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables.

Rhyme Scheme

The pattern of rhymes at the end of lines.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses.

Tone

The attitude or emotion conveyed by the author.

Free Verse

Poetry without regular rhyme or rhythm.

Enjambment

The continuation of a sentence or phrase beyond a line break.

Transcendentalism

A philosophical movement advocating for individual intuition, spiritual self-discovery, and a deep connection with nature.

Self-Reliance

Trust in one’s own intuition and wisdom over societal norms.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Author known for works like 'Self-Reliance' that urges avoidance of conformity.

Henry David Thoreau

Author known for 'Walden' and 'Civil Disobedience,' focusing on simple living and resistance to unjust laws.

Walt Whitman

Innovative poet known for 'Song of Myself' and use of free verse.

Emily Dickinson

Poet known for themes of death and immortality, using slant rhyme and unconventional punctuation.

The Great Gatsby

A critique of the American Dream through the eyes of Nick Carraway.

The American Dream

The belief that success is achievable through hard work, regardless of one’s background.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Singular subjects need singular verbs; plural subjects need plural verbs.

Comma Usage

Rules for using commas, including separating items in a list and after introductory elements.

Apostrophes

Indicate possession and form contractions.

Conclusion of a Personal Essay

Summarizes main insights and reflects on how the experience shaped perspective.