Lit Terms
theme
What is the "main idea" message or lesson of a plot?
logos
What is the name of the "logical" appeal?
Inciting Incident
The situation that occurs at the beginning of the story that helps move the plot. It serves as a catalyst that helps to intensify the conflict. ident
character foil
When authors present characters with differences in behaviors, looks, thoughts, etc., to emphasize the traits of another. Example: To show how fast a rabbit is, an author will include a turtle as a character foil.
Claim or position statement
What is the sentence that states your argument (this could be the thesis)?
tone
What is the character or author's voice or attitude toward the story?
pathos
What is the name of the "emotional appeal"?
Exposition
This section of the plot diagram informs the reader about the setting, introduces characters, and provides general background information about the story.
Direct Characterization
Direct characterization is when an author describes a character in a straightforward manner as if telling the reader directly. Example: Sally is a friendly person.
Diction
The author's conscious and deliberate use of words to convey meaning. Example: In the poem "The History Teacher," the poet uses the word "torment" to reflect the similarities between the children's behavior and horrible historical occurrences.
motif
Repetition of objects, imagery, phrases, behavior patterns, and incidents that authors use to establish a theme, mood, tone, atmosphere, etc.
ethos
What is the "ethical" appeal?
denouement
What is the part of the story in the resolution where characters work out their problems, tie up loose ends, etc.?
Indirect Characterization
A type of literary device that reveals details about a character without stating them explicitly. Instead of describing a character in a straightforward way, the author shows their traits through that character's actions, speech, thoughts, appearance, and how other characters react to them.
counter-argument
What is/are the arguments others may have?
Dramatic Irony
The audience/reader knows something that the character needs to know. The character has no clue what is happening. This lack of information often has a major impact on the character's behavior and outlook.
Rhetorical Question
a question asked in order to create a dramatic effect or to make a point rather than to get an answer
Dramatic Climax
An action or behavior that changes the changes that course of the plot (a turning point).
Motivation
A need, desire, quest, or goal that causes a character to think or behave in a certain way
Technical Climax
Thought, emotion, or idea that changes the course of a plot (turning point).