Literary Elements
What is plot?
The structure of a story that combines a sequence of events to form a narrative
The turning point in a story
Climax
Give me an example of a simile.
Use of "like" or "as"
Onomatopoeia
The part of the story where it ties up loose ends and begins to slow down.
Falling Action
What is setting?
The time, place, and mood of a story
The way the author presents the characters
Characterization
Give me an example of a hyperbole.
Exaggeration, overstatement
My phone died.
Personification
An outside voice narrating that story that knows everything about all characters and what is going on
3rd person omniscient
What is theme?
The broad idea, message, or moral of a story
When the reader or audience know something that the character(s) do not
Dramatic irony
Give me an example of symbolism and what it represents.
Object is the symbol. Idea is what it represents.
The movie Jaws where an entire town is against a giant shark.
Human vs. Nature
Somebody whose credibility has been compromised and cannot be trusted.
Unreliable narrator
What is a dynamic character?
A character who changes throughout the narrative
When a character is in opposition to a social norm, convention, tradition, etc.
Human vs. Society
Give me an example of an allusion.
Reference to an outside source.
Metaphor
The reader finds out about characters through thoughts, comments, or actions; the subtle observations of a character
Indirect characterization
What is a flat character?
A character that has few character traits; lacks depth.
Forces the reader to make an imaginative leap in order to comprehend an author's point
Figurative language
Give me an example of situational irony.
Where the situation's outcome is not as expected.
When I am debating whether or not to study for a big test tomorrow or spend my time playing video games.
Human vs. Self
Techniques used by an author to create their unique sense of style to their work; produces an effect to help gain a greater understanding of the work
Literary Device