Literary Devices/Terms

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 Literary Devices/Terms

1. Plot

  • Definition: The sequence of events in a story that are interconnected and move the narrative forward. It includes the exposition, complication, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

    The plot provides structure to the story and keeps the reader engaged by creating tension and conflict.

  • Example: In Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, the plot revolves around the love story of Romeo and Juliet, their secret marriage, the feud between their families, and their tragic deaths.

2. Setting

  • Definition: The time and place in which a story occurs. It includes the physical environment, historical period, and social context.

    The setting creates the atmosphere and helps the reader understand the context of the characters’ actions and the story’s themes.

  • Example: In To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the setting is the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression. This setting influences the themes of racism and social injustice.

3. Characterization

  • Definition: The process by which an author reveals the personality, traits, and motivations of a character. This can be done through direct description, actions, dialogue, or interactions with other characters.

    Characterization helps readers connect with the characters and understand their roles in the story.

  • Example: In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet is characterized as intelligent, witty, and independent through her conversations and her refusal to marry for convenience.

4. Point of View (POV)

  • Definition: The perspective from which a story is told. It can be first-person (using "I"), third-person limited (focusing on one character), or third-person omniscient (all-knowing narrator).

    The POV influences how the reader perceives the story and the characters, as it determines what information is revealed.

  • Example: In The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the story is told from the first-person perspective of Nick Carraway, who observes and narrates the events involving Gatsby and other characters.

5. Tone

  • Definition: The author’s attitude or feelings toward the subject matter or audience, conveyed through word choice and style.

    The tone sets the mood of the story and influences how the reader interprets the events and themes.

  • Example: In The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, the tone is cynical and sarcastic, reflecting Holden Caulfield’s disillusionment with the world.

6. Exposition

  • Definition: The introduction of background information about the characters, setting, and basic situation at the beginning of a story.

    The exposition provides the necessary context for the reader to understand the story.

  • Example: In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling, the exposition introduces Harry as an orphan living with his abusive aunt and uncle, setting the stage for his journey into the magical world.

7. Complication

  • Definition: An event or situation that introduces conflict or challenges for the protagonist, driving the plot forward.

    The complication creates tension and sets the main conflict in motion.

  • Example: In The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, the complication occurs when Katniss’s sister, Prim, is chosen for the Hunger Games, forcing Katniss to volunteer in her place.

8. Rising Action

  • Definition: A series of events that build tension and develop the conflict, leading to the climax of the story.

    The rising action keeps the reader engaged and builds suspense.

  • Example: In Macbeth by William Shakespeare, the rising action includes Macbeth’s ambition, the witches’ prophecies, and Lady Macbeth’s manipulation, all leading to Macbeth’s murder of King Duncan.

9. Resolution

  • Definition: The final part of the story where the conflict is resolved, and loose ends are tied up.

    The resolution provides closure and often highlights the story’s themes.

  • Example: In Lord of the Flies by William Golding, the resolution occurs when the boys are rescued, and their savagery is revealed to the naval officer.

10. Protagonist

  • Definition: The main character in a story, often the hero or the character the audience sympathizes with.

    The protagonist drives the story and is central to the conflict and resolution.

  • Example: In The Odyssey by Homer, Odysseus is the protagonist who embarks on a long journey to return home to Ithaca.

11. Antagonist

  • Definition: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict in the story.

    The antagonist creates obstacles for the protagonist, making the story more engaging.

  • Example: In Harry Potter, Voldemort is the antagonist who seeks to kill Harry and gain power over the wizarding world.

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