Imagery and Figurative Language in The House on Mango Street

These flashcards cover key concepts of imagery, figurative language, themes, and symbolism as discussed in the lecture on The House on Mango Street.

What is imagery in literature?

Visual and descriptive language that creates mental pictures by appealing to the five physical senses to evoke specific emotions or atmospheres.

List the five types of sensory imagery.

1. Visual (Sight): Colors, shapes, and light.

2. Auditory (Sound): Noises, music, or silence.

3. Gustatory (Taste): Flavors and food sensations.

4. Olfactory (Smell): Scents and aromas.

5. Tactile (Touch): Textures and temperatures.

Define allusion.

A brief, indirect reference to a significant person, place, or event from history, culture, or literature that relies on the reader's external knowledge for meaning.

What is the purpose of juxtaposition?

Placing two contrasting ideas, characters, or objects side by side to emphasize their differences and reveal deeper thematic layers.

Define metaphor with an example.

An implicit comparison that states one thing is another to provide direct description without using 'like' or 'as'. Example: (The\ world\ is\ a\ stage)

What is personification?

A device where human traits, emotions, or intentions are assigned to non-human entities like animals or objects to make them more relatable.

Define alliteration.

The repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a series of words, used to enhance rhythm or draw attention to specific phrasing.

What is hyperbole?

The use of extreme and intentional exaggeration for emphasis or humor; it is not meant to be taken literally but creates a vivid emotional effect.

How can a theme be identified in a story?

By synthesizing the central message or universal truth through factors like:

• Character Development: Growth or changes in individuals.

• Conflict Resolution: How main problems are solved.

• Motifs: Recurring symbols or ideas.

• Plot Structure: The overall sequence of events.

Define symbolism.

The idea that things represent other things