english fall final

Irony

when the outcome is the opposite of what is expected.

Motif

a repeated idea or image that reinforces a theme (Macbeth- blood appears repeatedly, symbolizing guilt.)

epiphany

a sudden realization or moment of understanding (circe- Circe realizes she does not need the gods’ approval to define herself.)

symbolism

When an object or image represents a deeper meaning. Example: “Out, Out—” — The buzz saw symbolizes the dangers of industrial work.

apocalyptic literature

writing that reveals destruction, judgment, or the end of an era. (Blake’s Visions — His prophetic poems describe the collapse of corrupt societies.)

allusion

A brief reference to another story, myth, or historical event. Example: out - out refrences macbeth)

archetypes

Universal character types or patterns found across literature. Example: Macbeth — Macbeth is a tragic hero archetype.

conflict

A struggle between opposing forces. Example: Macbeth — Macbeth’s ambition conflicts with his sense of morality.

epigraph

A quotation at the beginning of a work that sets the tone or theme. Example: Circe — Uses mythic framing to establish the novel’s themes.

imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses. Example: “Out, Out—” — Graphic descriptions of the saw and the boy’s injury.

juxtaposition

Placing contrasting ideas or images side by side. Example: “Out, Out—” — Calm countryside contrasted with sudden violence.

metaphor

A comparison that states one thing is another

paradox

A statement that seems contradictory but reveals a truth. Example: Macbeth — “Fair is foul, and foul is fair.”

realism

Depicting life as it truly is, without idealization. Example: “Out, Out—” — Death is sudden and emotionally detached.

cosmogony

A story explaining the creation or order of the universe. Blake’s Visions — Describes the formation of spiritual and moral worlds.

soliloquy

A speech in which a character reveals thoughts while alone. Macbeth — “Is this a dagger which I see before me?”

aside

A short comment to the audience, unheard by other characters. Macbeth — Macbeth privately reveals his true intentions.