EoY Exam Study Notes: Literary devices

Literary Analysis Terms

• Motif: A repeated element with symbolic meaning.

  • Example: Repeated images of darkness in Macbeth.

• Narrative Structure: How the story is built (linear, flashbacks, etc.).

  • Example: In media res, which starts in the middle of the action.

• Personification: Giving human traits to non-human things.

  • Example: "The wind whispered through the trees."

• Point of View: The narrator's position.

  • Example: First-person: "I saw the shadow…"

• Simile: A comparison using "like" or "as".

  • Example: "He was as fast as lightning."

• Symbolism: A concrete object representing an idea.

  • Example: A dove symbolizes peace.

• Allegory: A story with a deeper meaning (often moral or political).

  • Example: Lord of the Flies is an allegory about human nature.

• Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds.

  • Example: "She sells seashells."

• Allusion: A reference to another work or idea.

  • Example: "He was a real Romeo" (Shakespeare).

• Atmosphere: The mood or feeling of a text.

  • Example: A haunted house creates a gloomy atmosphere.

• Characterization: How an author presents a character.

  • Example: "She always held her head high and spoke softly."

• Conflict: A struggle (internal or external).

  • Example: A character debating a tough choice (internal conflict).

• Diction: Word choice.

  • Example: "Youthful" vs. "immature" - both mean young, but feel different.

• Foreshadowing: Hints about what will happen later.

  • Example: Dark clouds before a tragic event.

• Imagery: Descriptive language appealing to the senses.

  • Example: "The scent of fresh rain filled the air."

• Irony: When the opposite of what's expected occurs.

  • Example: A fire station burns down.

• Metaphor: A direct comparison.

  • Example: "Time is a thief."

• Theme: The central message or insight.

  • Example: The dangers of unchecked power.

• Tone: The author's attitude (sarcastic, hopeful, somber, etc.).

Non-Literary (Advertising) Analysis

• Mnemonic: Please Call Aunt Vera To Eat Vietnamese Spring Rolls
  • Product
  • Context & Culture
  • Audience
  • Values
  • Text
  • Emotion & Mood
  • Visuals & Layout
  • Subtext

Persuasive Techniques

• Bandwagon: Suggests everyone is doing it.

  • Example: "Join the millions who've switched to EcoBank!"

• Ethos: Appeal to credibility or authority.

  • Example: "As a doctor, I recommend this medication."

• Plain Folks: Presents the speaker as an average, relatable person.

  • Example: "I'm just a mom trying to do what's best for my kids."

• Pathos: Appeal to emotion.

  • Example: An ad showing a crying child to raise awareness.

• Celebrity Endorsement/Testimonial: Uses a famous person or expert to support a product.

  • Example: "Beyoncé uses this skincare line - shouldn't you?"

• Logos: Appeal to logic and reasoning.

  • Example: "Studies show 90% of users improved after one week."

• Inclusive Language: Use of we, you, our to connect with the audience.

  • Example: "We all deserve a brighter future."

• Anaphora/Repetition: Repeating words or phrases for emphasis.

  • Example: "We must fight. We must resist. We must prevail."

• Rhetorical Question: A question asked for effect, not an answer.

  • Example: "How much longer will we stay silent?"

• Bribery: Offers something "extra" to persuade.

  • Example: "Buy one, get one free!" or "Free gift with purchase."

• Glittering Generalities: Uses vague, emotionally appealing phrases.

  • Example: "Experience true freedom and happiness!"

• Weasel Words: Words that seem meaningful but are intentionally vague.

  • Example: "Helps fight signs of aging" (but doesn't promise results).

• Scapegoating: Blaming a person/group unfairly for a problem.

  • Example: "Our economy is struggling because of immigrants."

• Imagery: Vivid language that appeals to the senses.

  • Example: "The sizzling bacon crackled in the pan."

• Symbolism: An object or image that stands for an idea.

  • Example: A dove representing peace or a green leaf for sustainability.

• Timing: Using current events or urgency to make an argument stronger.

  • Example: "Act now-offer ends at midnight!"

• Connotation/Diction: Word choice used to influence emotional response.

  • Example: "Freedom fighters" vs. "rebels."