ELa Notes

Protagonist

Typically the main character who is round and usually dynamic, and whom the audience wants to root for.

Antagonist

The character who causes conflict for the protagonist.

Simile

A comparison of two unlike things using the words 'like' or 'as'.

Metaphor

A comparison of two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'.

Hyperbole

Purposeful exaggeration.

Imagery

Creating an image by using details related to sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.

Foreshadowing

Hinting at what is to come in a story.

Flashback

A narrative technique where the speaker reflects on past events.

Tone

The author's attitude toward their topic, which can be positive or negative.

Mood

The feeling or atmosphere that the author intends for the reader to experience.

Suspense

A feeling of tension created in a story.

Situational Irony

When the reader expects one outcome but the opposite occurs.

Dramatic Irony

When the reader knows something that a character does not, creating suspense.

Surprise Ending

An unexpected conclusion of a story that often reveals situational irony.

Flat Character

A two-dimensional character who is uncomplicated and often a stereotype.

Round Character

A complex character with multiple layers and facets to their personality.

Dynamic Character

A character who undergoes significant internal change throughout the story.

Static Character

A character who remains the same throughout the story.

Direct Characterization

When the author directly describes a character's personality.

Indirect Characterization

When the personality of a character is revealed through their actions, thoughts, speech, effects on others, and looks.

Exposition

The introduction of characters and setting in a story.

Inciting Incident

The event that introduces the conflict and makes the story's action begin.

Rising Action

The series of events that lead up to the climax of the story.

Climax

The turning point of the story, the moment of greatest tension.

Falling Action

The wrapping up of the story after the climax.

Resolution

The conclusion of the story and how it ends.

Denouement

The 'new everyday' where life has changed as a result of the story.

Symbol

A person, place, or object that has literal meaning and also stands for something larger.

Symbolism

The use of symbols in literature to convey deeper meanings.

Allegory

A story that has both a literal and symbolic meaning.

Internal Conflict

A struggle that occurs within a character's mind or heart.

Person vs. Self

A character battling inner demons or striving for personal improvement.

Person vs. Person

A common external conflict where the protagonist faces an opposing character.

Person vs. Nature

A conflict between a character and natural forces.

Person vs. Society

A conflict between a character and societal norms or institutions.

Person vs. Technology

A conflict arising when technology exceeds human control.

Person vs. Supernatural

A conflict involving supernatural forces or entities.

Person vs. Destiny

A conflict where a character battles against fate or luck.