Elements of the Shakespearean Writing - Vocab

Front

A long speech by a character, revealing innermost thoughts, unheard by others.

Back

Soliloquy

Front

A brief speech delivered by a character on stage, unheard by others, revealing a secret or making a joke.

Back

Aside

Front

A serious dramatic composition, often in verse, involving a great person facing downfall due to a flaw or conflict with fate or society.

Back

Tragedy

Front

Humorous element in a serious work to relieve tension.

Back

Comedic Relief

Front

A reference to well-known characters, events, or themes from classical literature, like Greek mythology or the Bible. Example: You lie like Pinocchio.

Back

Allusion

Front

Character contrasting with another to highlight qualities of the protagonist (e.g., Mufasa and Scar).

Back

Foil

Front

Literary device: un-rhyming verse in iambic pentameter.

Back

Blank verse

Front

Thee

Back

You

Front

Shrift

Back

Confession

Front

Anon

Back

Soon