Hubris
In Greek tragedies, hubris often angers this king of the gods.
Zeus
A story that makes the audience feel pity for a struggling family uses this emotional appeal.
Pathos
An early scene showing a character struggling with a locked door suggests this device might be used later.
Foreshadowing
This term describes an instance where a storm represents the chaos of an upcoming event.
Example of symbolism
A ruler who ignores warnings from advisors because they believe they are always right exhibits this trait.
Overconfidence
Images of abandoned animals in commercials are an example of this rhetorical technique.
Emotional persuasion
A red herring in a mystery novel is sometimes mistaken for this literary device.
Clue
A moment in a movie where a child’s favorite toy breaks, hinting at a future loss, is an example of this device.
Example of foreshadowing
Thinking one is untouchable after achieving success is an example of this behavior.
Arrogance
A eulogy that moves listeners to tears relies heavily on this aspect of rhetoric.
Emotional connection
A dying plant in the background of a movie scene can symbolize future events through this technique.
Symbolism
A character ignoring a fortune teller’s warning is an example of this literary concept.
Example of huris
In many tragedies, this characteristic causes characters to challenge divine laws, resulting in their downfall.
Defiance
Literature that uses vivid descriptions of suffering to invoke sympathy employs this.
Compassion-building
When a storyteller hints at a twist ending by revealing seemingly minor details, they are using this technique.
Subtle foreshadowing
A heartfelt speech at a fundraiser that convinces donors to give more money is an example of this rhetorical strategy.
Example of pathos