Literary Terms
A comparison of two unlike things using like or as
Simile
instructions written into the script of a play
stage directions
Uses an illogical chain reaction to reach an extreme conclusion
ex: If I fail my English class, I will never graduate and then I will never get a job, I will be homeless, etc.
slippery slope
What does the exposition introduce?
setting and characters
What is the turning point of the story called on the plot diagram?
Climax
A comparison without using like or as
metaphor
The words spoken directly in a text
Dialogue
Draws a conclusion or assumption based on little evidence
ex:
A student does not do any work, so Mrs. Riley says, "All teenagers are lazy."
Hasty Generalization
What is the step called on the plot diagram called where the the reader is introduced to the problem/ conflict?
inciting incident
a rhetorical appeal that appeals to logic and facts
logos
An extreme exaggeration
A long speech given by a character in a play
Monologue
attacking the arguer instead of their argument
Ex:
You are arguing with your little brother. You say, "How would you know you are young and dumb."
Ad hominem
What is it called when the readers know something that the characters do not?
dramatic irony
a rhetorical appeal that appeals to ethics and good character
ethos
Giving inanimate objects human characteristics
personification
when the actor speaks directly to the audience
Aside
Wrongly assumes a cause and effect relationship
Ex:
If I wear my lucky jersey, my team will win tomorrow.
False Cause
uses peer pressure to create the impression that you should think a certain way (also known as bandwagon)
Ex: Everyone loves these shoes, so you should to.
Ad populum
a rhetorical appeal that appeals to emotion
pathos
"The ancient clock in the hallway cleared its throat with a groan before reluctantly announcing the hour."
What literary term is this an example of?
personification
When the actor speaks their thoughts and feelings out loud
Soliloquy
Exaggerating a person's argument
Ex:
Your mom tells you that you can't hangout with your friends. You respond with, "I guess you just hate me."
Straw Man
Ex:
"You can either do what I ask, or get a referral."
"You either like bacon, or your wrong."
False dilemma
“If you're still unsure, please consider that my advanced degree and fieldwork speak for themselves.”
This statement is an example of what rhetorical appeal?
ethos