An organizational device used in literature to present action that occurred before current (present) time of the story. They are often introduced
Flashback
An object or abstract idea given human qualities or human form
Personification
A word that is opposite in meaning to another word
Antonym
The repetition of initial sounds in neighboring words.
Alliteration
An attack on a person instead of an issue
Name-calling
The comparison of two unlike things in which no words of comparison (like or as) are used (e.g., The speech gave me food for thought.)
Metaphor
Descriptive or figurative language in a literary work; the use of language to create sensory impressions
Imagery
A device in literature where and object represents and idea
Symbolism
A comparison of two unlike things in which a word of comparison (like or as) is used
Simile
Tries to persuade the reader to do, think, or buy something because it is popular or because “everyone” is doing it
Bandwagon
An exaggeration or overstatement
Hyperbole
The subtle presence of a positive or negative approach toward a topic
Bias
A trend or pattern of shared beliefs or practices that mark an approach to literature (e.g., Realism, Naturalism, Romanticism).
Literary movement
An organizational device used in literature to create expectation or to set up an explanation of later developments.
Foreshadowing
An attempt to distract the reader with details not relevant to the argument
Red herring
The attitude of a writer toward a subject or an audience conveyed through word choice and the style of the writing.
Tone
The overall feeling, or atmosphere, of a text often created by the author's use of imagery and word choice.
Mood
The use of a word or phrase to mean the exact opposite of its literal or usual meaning; incongruity between the actual result of a sequence of events and the expected result.
Irony
A variety of a language distinct from the standard variety in pronunciation, grammar, or vocabulary
Dialect
Attempts to persuade the reader by using a famous person to endorse a product or idea
Testimonial
The range of associations that a word or phrase suggests in addition to its dictionary meaning.
Connotation
An author's choice of words, phrases, sentence structures and figurative language, which combine to help create meaning and tone.
Diction
A dramatic speech, revealing inner thoughts and feelings, spoken aloud by one character while alone on the stage
Soliloquy
An extended speech spoken by one speaker, either to others or as if alone.
Monologue
Tries to persuade the reader by using words that appeal to the readers emotions instead of appealing to logic or reason
Emotional appeal