Poetry Terms
This poetry term refers to an extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or effect.
Hyperpole
This creature is the true identity of the “narrow fellow” described in Dickinson’s poem.
Snake
The narrator insists he is not insane, but claims he had to kill the old man because of this unsettling feature. What is the object?
The vulture eye
Montresor says he wants to get revenge on Fortunato because Fortunato did this to him many times.
insult him (or hurt his feelings)?
Montresor mentions his family motto, “No one attacks me with impunity.” What does impunity mean?
This term describes language that appeals to the five senses and helps the reader create a mental picture.
Imagery
The poem describes a moment when the speaker once nearly stepped on the snake as a child, creating this emotional reaction. What is the tone?
Fear
The beating sound the narrator keeps hearing represents this—his overwhelming sense of guilt. What is the character's motivation?
narrator’s conscience
Most of the story happens in this dark, underground place full of tunnels and bones. What is the main setting?
the catacombs?
This line — “The Grass divides as with a Comb” — is an example of what kind of figurative language?
Simile
This term refers to the repetition of the same beginning consonant sounds in a series of words.
In the line describing the snake as “a spotted shaft,” Dickinson uses this literary device to help readers visualize the creature. What is the figurative language used?
Imagery
The story is told in this point of view, allowing readers to experience the narrator’s thoughts directly. What is the point of view?
First-person point of view
When Montresor says “To your long life!” but is actually planning to kill Fortunato, this is an example of this type of irony.
Dramatic Irony
What is the definition of tone?
Speaker's attitude about the subject
This figure of speech compares two unlike things by saying one thing is another, without using “like” or “as.”
Metaphor
The poem begins with curiosity and calmness but shifts to this tone when the speaker reveals their true feelings toward the snake. What is the tone?
Discomfort and fear
Poe builds suspense by describing how slowly and quietly the narrator moves at night, creating this dark and tense atmosphere. What is the mood?
suspense or a creepy/ominous mood?
Montresor tricks Fortunato because Fortunato likes to brag about being an expert in this.
Wine
How are mood and tone different?
Tone is about the author responding to the audience.
Mood is about the characters inside the text.
This broad term refers to any language that goes beyond its literal meaning to create deeper meaning or effect—like similes, metaphors, or personification.
Figurative Language
Calling the snake a “fellow” and describing its movement as if it has human qualities is an example of this figurative device.
Personification
The climax occurs when the narrator can no longer stand the imagined heartbeat and does this dramatic action. What is the climax?
confessing to the murder (telling the police he killed the old man)
What is the theme?
It teaches that seeking revenge can lead to harm, danger, and terrible consequences.
What does this quote mean:
"A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser."
This line shows that Montresor believes revenge is necessary. The fact that the reader knows Montresor plans to harm Fortunato while Fortunato does not is an example of what literary device