English Midterm

Motif

A recurring element or theme in a literary work, such as light vs. darkness.

Irony

A contrast between expectations and reality; can be verbal, situational, or dramatic.

Tone

The author’s attitude toward the subject, as conveyed through word choice and style.

Mood

The emotional atmosphere created by the text.

Exposition

Background information introduced at the beginning of a story.

Foreshadowing

Hints or clues about events that will occur later in the story.

Euphemism

A mild or indirect word/phrase used to avoid saying something harsh or unpleasant.

Conflict

The struggle between opposing forces, which can be internal or external.

Resolution

The conclusion of the story’s conflict.

Simile

A comparison using 'like' or 'as'.

Oxymoron

Two contradictory terms placed together, e.g., 'bittersweet'.

Antithesis

A contrast of ideas expressed through parallel structures.

Hyperbole

Deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or humor.

Theme

The central idea or message of a work.

Allusion

A reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work.

Symbolism

When an object, person, or situation represents something beyond its literal meaning.

Dramatic Irony

When the audience knows more than the characters in the story.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses.

Onomatopoeia

Words that imitate sounds, e.g., 'buzz,' 'clang'.

Alliteration

The repetition of initial consonant sounds in nearby words.

Repetition

The intentional reuse of a word or phrase for emphasis.

Juxtaposition

Placing two contrasting ideas or elements side by side.

Personification

Assigning human traits to non-human entities.