Literary Devices

Front

What is a simile?

Back

A literary device that compares two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

What is symbolism in literature?

Back

A literary device that uses symbols—words, people, landmarks, or ideas—to represent something beyond their literal meaning.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

Front

Define metaphor.

Back

A literary device that makes a comparison by referring to one thing as if it were another, without using 'like' or 'as'.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

What is characterization?

Back

A literary device that involves the description of a character's goals, values, or feelings, which can change the reader's opinion about that character.

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.8.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

What is dramatic irony?

Back

A type of irony where the audience knows more about a situation than the characters do, creating a contrast between the character's understanding and the reality.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.5A

Front

What is an example of a simile?

Back

'Her smile was like the sun shining on a clear day.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

What is the purpose of symbolism in literature?

Back

To convey deeper meanings and themes by representing abstract ideas through concrete objects or actions.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

Front

How does a metaphor differ from a simile?

Back

A metaphor directly states that one thing is another, while a simile uses 'like' or 'as' to make a comparison.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5A

CCSS.L.5.5A

CCSS.RL.5.4

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

Front

What are the two main types of characterization?

Back

Direct characterization (where the author explicitly describes the character) and indirect characterization (where the character's traits are revealed through actions, thoughts, and dialogue).

Tags

CCSS.L.11-12.6

CCSS.L.8.6

CCSS.L.9-10.6

CCSS.W.11-12.2D

CCSS.W.9-10.2D

Front

What is situational irony?

Back

A type of irony where there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually happens.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.5A