ENG Literary Terms #3

A literary device in which two or more words within the same line of poetry rhyme with each other.

words that imitate the sound of the object or action they refer to; intended to evoke the sound
that they describe and create a sensory experience for the reader

Combination of two contradictory terms to create a new meaning or effect. often used to create a sense of irony or humor, and
to emphasize the contrast between two seemingly opposite concepts. An oxymoron can also be used to convey a deeper meaning or message, and to challenge the reader’s assumptions about the world

involves a statement or situation that contradicts itself or seems to go against common sense. It is often used to create an element of surprise or
confusion in a work of literature, and to challenge the reader’s assumptions about the world. A paradox can also be used to highlight an underlying
truth or irony in a situation, and to convey a deeper meaning or message. commonly used in poetry, prose, and drama, can add
complexity and depth to the writing.

sequence of events that make up a story. It includes the main events,
conflicts, and resolutions that move the story forward and create tension
and drama for the reader. typically structured around a central
conflict or problem that the characters must confront and overcome, and is
often divided into distinct acts or chapters

Suspense creates a feeling of tension or anticipation in the reader. often used in literature, film, and other storytelling mediums to engage the
audience and keep them invested in the story. created by withholding information or revealing it slowly, creating a sense of mystery
or uncertainty about what will happen next- can be achieved through various techniques such as foreshadowing, cliffhangers, and dramatic
irony. By using suspense, writers can heighten the emotional impact of their work and keep their readers on the edge of their seats, eager to know
what will happen next

a literary device where an object, action, or event represents a larger
concept, idea or emotion. A symbol can be a concrete object, like a rose, or
an abstract concept, like freedom, and it carries a deeper meaning beyond
its literal interpretation. Symbols are used in literature to create layers of
meaning and to convey themes, ideas, or messages to the reader in a more
subtle way. Through the use of symbols, writers can give their greater
emotional impact and engage readers on a deeper level, allowing for a
more immersive and memorable reading experience

refers to the underlying message or meaning of a work of literature. It is the central idea or insight that the author is attempting to convey to the
reader through the characters, plot, and other elements of the text. Themes can be expressed in a variety of ways, such as through symbolism,
imagery, and metaphor, and can explore complex issues such as love, death, power, identity, and morality. The use of themes in literature can
serve to provide a deeper understanding of the human experience and can resonate with readers on a personal and emotional level

refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed
sentences in a language. It is concerned with the structure of language,
including the rules and principles that govern how words are combined to
create meaning. Syntax can be used to create a range of effects, such as
emphasizing certain words or ideas, creating rhythm and flow, and
conveying tone and mood. The use of syntax in literature can help to
establish a particular style or voice, and can shape the reader’s experience
of the text by influencing their interpretation and emotional response.

Depicts a character’s downfall or destruction, usually as a result of their
own actions or flaws. Tragic narratives often involve a central character
who possesses admirable qualities but is ultimately undone by their own
hubris, ignorance, or circumstance. Tragedies typically evoke feelings of
pity, sorrow, and even fear in the reader or audience, as the character’s fate
is often seen as inevitable or unavoidable. The use of tragedy in literature
can serve to explore universal themes such as morality, fate, and human
nature, and to prompt reflection on the complexities of the human
experience

generally defined as a literary work that is written to amuse or
entertain a reader. In a comedy, characters can certainly suffer misfortune,
but they are typically comedic situations with positive outcomes. Not all
examples of comedy as a literary device are funny. However, its light-
hearted treatment of plot and tone does allow a reader and/or audience to
release emotion and tension as a satisfying escape from the mundanity of
life or tragic circumstances, with the potential of gaining insight into
humanity and the self.

Refers to the time, place, and environment in which a story takes
place. It includes physical and geographical details, historical context, and
cultural background, all of which can shape the characters and events in
the story. The setting can affect the mood and atmosphere of a story and
help to create a sense of authenticity and realism. By using specific details
and descriptions, writers can transport readers to different places and times
and immerse them in the world of the story.

A portmanteau combines two or more words or parts of words to create a
new word with a blended meaning. The term “portmanteau” itself is a
combination of the French words “porter” (to carry) and “manteau”
(cloak), and was coined by Lewis Carroll in Through the Looking-Glass.
Portmanteaus are often used in literature and popular culture to create new
words that express a concept more succinctly than existing words can.
(Example: brunch = breakfast and lucnh combined)

Involves the blending or crossing of two or more sensory
experiences or perceptions, such as sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. It
is often used to create vivid and evocative descriptions that appeal to
multiple senses and create a more immersive reading experience for the
audience. Synesthesia can be achieved through the use of metaphors,
similes, and other forms of figurative language that compare or combine
sensory experiences, such as “the sound of her voice was like velvet” or
“the taste of the cake was a rainbow of flavors.”

A 14-line verse form often in iambic pentameter, having one of several
conventional rhyme schemes and usually featuring a shift in mood or tone
after the eighth or twelfth line

a literary device that involves the use of indirect or
roundabout language to express an idea, often with the intention of being
more polite, tactful, or evasive. Rather than stating something directly,
circumlocution involves using a series of words or phrases to hint at or
imply the intended meaning. This device can be used to convey a variety of
emotions, from diplomacy and politeness to sarcasm and criticism.
Circumlocution is often used in literature, particularly in dialogue and
character interactions, to add depth and nuance to the language and to
reflect the complexity of human communication.

the praise of a person or thing

A figure of speech which bases a conclusion on the truth of its contrary.