Literary Devices (English)

Technique	Definition
Emotive Language	Words or phrases that show strong emotions make the reader feel the characters' feelings. Look for words or phrases that evoke strong feelings (e.g., anger, sadness, fear, joy). Consider how the emotion revealed by the language helps develop the character or highlight important themes in the story.
Imagery	Descriptive language that helps the reader picture things in their mind by appealing to the senses (sight / visual, sound / auditory, touch / tactile, taste / gustatory, smell / olfactory). Look at how imagery creates vivid scenes or evokes emotions, contributing to the atmosphere and deeper meaning of the text.
Negative Connotation	When a word or phrase makes something sound worse or more hostile than it might be otherwise. Find words or phrases that carry a negative meaning (e.g., "you people," "stupid," "slave"). Ask yourself how it shapes your understanding of the character’s perspective or the overall theme
Rhetorical Question	A question that doesn’t need an answer but is used to make a point. Explore why the author or character asks rhetorical questions and how these questions might cause the reader to react or emphasize an idea
Juxtaposition	The use of opposing ideas to highlight differences. Consider how juxtaposition creates tension or highlights key themes by comparing opposing ideas, images, or characters.
Symbolism	When an object, person, or situation represents something more than its literal meaning. Identify symbols and explore their deeper meanings and how they contribute to the theme or message of the text. For example, a "rose" might symbolize love, beauty, or even mortality, depending on context.
Irony	When something happens that is the opposite of what you would expect. Students should note instances of irony and analyze how it adds complexity to the narrative or enhances the theme.
Diction / Connotation	The author's choice of words and their connotations - emotional impact. Focus on how specific words contribute to the tone, mood, and meaning of a text. For example, formal vs. informal diction or emotional vs. neutral language. Clear definition: Words the author uses to express the protagonist's emotions.
Tone	The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience, conveyed through their word choice and style. Identify the tone (e.g., sarcastic, serious, humorous) and consider how it shapes their interpretation of the text.
Metaphor / Simile	Metaphors compare two unlike things directly, while similes use "like" or "as." Identify metaphors and similes, examining how these comparisons enhance meaning, clarify abstract ideas, or add emotional depth.