Literary Terms
Literary Terms
Literary Terms
Literary Terms
Literary Terms
100

This is the character that opposes the hero or protagonist.

Who is the antagonist?

100

This is the central character/leading figure; sometimes called the “hero.”

What is the protagonist?

100

This is struggle between two (or more) opposing forces.

What is conflict?

100

This literary device is a comparison using "like" or "as."

What is a simile?

100

This is the main idea represented in a story. 

What is theme?

200

This is the events that make up a story, relate to one another.

What is the plot?

200

This is the angle of the work which shows us the opinions or feelings of individuals involved in a situation.

What is point of view?

200

This refers to a series of related incidents that create suspense, interest, and tension 

What is rising action?

200

This is a comparison between two things NOT using "like" or "as."

What is a metaphor?

200

This refers to the attitude of a writer towards a subject or audience; generally shown through word choice or viewpoint. 

What is tone?

300

This is introduces background events, settings, characters, etc.  

What is the exposition?

300

This literary device uses descriptions that appeal to the five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell) to create a vivid image for the reader. 

What is imagery?

300

This refers to an element evoking certain feelings, vibes, emotions, in audience through words and description (a.k.a. atmosphere). 

 What is mood?

300

This literary device happens when there is a repetition of consonant sounds. For example, "The bells of Saint Columbkile's clang."

What is alliteration?

300

This literary device gives meaning to an object that is different from its literal meaning.  For example, a dove in a story may represent peace. 

What is symbolism?

400

This is another term for "the exposition." 

What is the introduction?

400

This is an object/idea that repeats itself throughout a piece; image/sound/action that have symbolic significance 

What is a motif?

400

This refers to the most exciting, intense, or important part of a story. 

What is a climax?

400

This literary device occurs when the word imitates the sound it makes.  For example, "buzz!"

What is onomatopoeia?

400

This refers to the environment or surroundings in which an event/story takes place.

What is the setting?

500

This is one definition of genre.

What is a type of work characterized by a specific form and content?

500

This is an unspoken contract between a reader and a writer that negotiates the boundaries of meaning. 

What is genre?

500

This happens when the writer gives an audience a hint of what is to come later. 

What is foreshadowing?

500

List three of the four effective techniques we described in class to grab a reader's/ viewer's attention at the start of a story. 

1. Dialogue

2.  Sound effects

3.  An interesting fact. 

4. A question. 

500

True or False: The following statement is in the third person point of view. 

 With sudden speed Sarah kicked her assailant, knocking him out.  

True