AP Literature and Composition – Key Terms Review

25 question-and-answer flashcards covering essential literary terms and vocabulary for AP Literature and Composition.

What is an allegory in literature?

A narrative in which characters, events, and settings symbolize deeper moral or political meanings beyond the literal story.

In literary analysis, what does the term allusion refer to?

A brief, indirect reference to a person, place, event, or work of art/literature presumed to be known by the reader.

When a text’s meaning is open to multiple interpretations, what adjective describes it?

Ambiguous.

What is anthropomorphism?

The attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities, especially animals or objects.

How is a colloquialism best defined?

A word or expression used in informal, everyday speech rather than formal writing or standard language.

In poetry, what is a conceit?

An extended, elaborate metaphor that makes a surprising or far-fetched comparison between two very unlike things.

What does dialect mean in literature?

A regional or social variety of language distinguished by pronunciation, grammar, or vocabulary unique to a particular group.

What type of poem is an elegy?

A formal poem of lament or reflection, typically mourning the loss of someone or something.

How is a farce characterized in drama?

A comedic work that uses exaggerated, improbable situations and physical humor to entertain the audience.

What is free verse poetry?

Poetry that does not follow regular meter, rhyme scheme, or traditional forms, allowing open, natural rhythms.

Define hyperbole.

A deliberate and obvious exaggeration used for emphasis or comic effect.

What literary technique involves placing two elements side by side to emphasize contrast or comparison?

Juxtaposition.

What is metonymy?

A figure of speech in which something is referred to by the name of an associated object or concept (e.g., "the crown" for monarchy).

In literature, what is a motif?

A recurring image, symbol, theme, or element that develops or informs the work’s major themes.

What is a quatrain in poetry?

A stanza of four lines, often with a specific rhyme scheme.

Define enjambment.

The continuation of a sentence or clause beyond the end of a line of poetry without a pause.

What does the adjective brazen mean?

Bold and shameless; acting with or showing a lack of regard for conventional rules or propriety.

In vocabulary terms, what is compunction?

A feeling of guilt or moral scruple that follows the doing of something bad.

What does it mean to admonish someone?

To warn or reprimand them firmly; to advise or urge earnestly.

Define plight as a noun.

A difficult, unfortunate, or precarious situation.

What does subversive describe?

Intended to undermine, overthrow, or disrupt an established system, institution, or authority.

How is disparity defined?

A great difference or inequality between two or more things.

What is the meaning of efficacy?

The ability to produce a desired or intended result; effectiveness.

When something is described as torrid, what does that imply?

Intensely hot, passionate, or emotionally charged.

In matters of conduct, what does propriety mean?

Conformity to accepted standards of behavior, morals, or etiquette; correctness.