AP LIT Group 1 Literaray Terms

Plot

The sequence of events in a story.

Exposition

Introduction of characters

Rising Action

Events that build tension or develop the conflict.

Climax

The turning point or most intense moment of the story.

Falling Action

Events following the climax that lead toward resolution.

Denouement/Resolution

The conclusion where conflicts are resolved and the story ends.

Conflict

The central struggle in a story.

Setting

The time

Protagonist – the main character or hero of the story (who the story is mainly about).

Antagonist

the character or force that opposes the protagonist (the “opponent” or obstacle).

Direct Characterization

the author explicitly tells the reader what a character is like (straightforward description).

Indirect Characterization

the author shows a character’s traits through actions

Round Character

a complex

Flat Character

a simple

Diction

the author’s choice of words (formal

Imagery

descriptive language that appeals to the senses (helps the reader “see” and “feel”).

Syntax / Structure

the arrangement of words and sentences (how sentences are built to affect pacing or tone).

Figurative Language

language that conveys meaning beyond the literal (makes writing more vivid).

Simile

comparison using “like” or “as” (she was as brave as a lion).

Metaphor

direct comparison without “like” or “as” (he was a lion in the fight).

Personification

giving human qualities to non-human things (the wind whispered).

Hyperbole

exaggeration for effect (I’ve told you a million times!).

Symbol

an object

Denotation

the literal dictionary meaning of a word (“home” = place where someone lives).

Connotation

the emotional or cultural associations of a word (“home” feels safe

Tone

the author’s attitude toward the subject or audience (serious

Mood

the emotional atmosphere experienced by the reader (how the story makes you feel).