Lit. Device Definitions 1
Comparing two objects using like or as.
Simile
Comparing two objects without using like or as
Metaphor
The stale bread was as hard as a rock.
Simile
Anzia Yezierska uses first-person narration to detail her experience as an isolated immigrant.
Point-of-view
Pacify
Ease the anger, agitation, or strong emotion of
Using extreme exaggeration.
Hyperbole
A portrayal of "STEAL": Speech, thoughts, effect on others, actions, looks
Characterization
Gatsby is desperate and naive when he waits outside Daisy's house after she kills Myrtle.
Characterization
American flag = freedom
Dove = peace
Heart = love
Symbolism
Indifference
The trait of remaining calm and seeming not to care
Giving human qualities to an object or animal
Personification
Illustrates a greater problem that exists outside of the text, in the real world; external or internal
Conflict
Salem, Puritanism, 1692
Setting
The boy's stomach was a bottomless pit.
Metaphor
Hostility
A state of deep-seated ill-will
The time (historical, time of year, specific event) and place of a text.
Setting
Language that helps the reader see, smell, hear, taste, or touch something
Imagery
John Proctor fighting his own internal guilt about his affair
Conflict
The trumpet sang out the notes for the Star Spangled Banner.
Personification
Pessimistic
Expecting the worst possible outcome
When the exact opposite occurs of what one would expect.
Irony
The speaker’s attitude toward his/her subject.
Tone
When you find out your dentist has a mouthful of cavities.
Irony
The sun shone brightly, its rays illuminating the field with yellow warmth that made the dead grass glow.
Imagery
Perception
The process of becoming aware through the senses