Literary Terms Flashcards

Flashcards for Literary Terms

Allegory

A story where the characters and events symbolize something else.

Aside

A dramatic device where a character speaks to the audience; the speech is unheard by other characters.

Ethos

An appeal based on the character or credibility of the speaker.

Euphemism

A word or expression used in lieu of a harsher alternative; example: 'taking an early retirement' instead of saying 'got fired'.

Fable

Narrative story, usually featuring animals that behave/speak as humans to highlight human weakness; highlights a moral or lesson.

Irony

When there is a contrast between expectation and reality.

Logos

An appeal based on facts or logic.

Oxymoron

Combines two contradictory/opposite ideas to create effect or reveal deeper truth; example: 'deafening silence'.

Pathos

An appeal based on emotions or feelings.

Pun

A play on the multiple meanings of words or words that sound alike but have different meanings.

Satire

Use of humor, irony, exaggeration to expose behaviors or issues.

Soliloquy

When a character speaks their thoughts aloud by themselves, regardless if anyone is around to hear it.

Symbolism

Use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.

Syntax

Order of words in a sentence.

Utopia

Refers to an ideal place in which all aspects are nearly perfect; a perfect society.