Literature Key Terms

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Similes

Back

Make a comparison using a linking word such as 'like', 'as', or 'than'. Example: 'Her shirt was as green as the grass.'

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Inference

Back

Making a reasonable conclusion based on evidence found in the literary text.

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Compare vs Contrast

Back

Comparing analyzes similarities between two things, while contrasting analyzes differences.

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Genre

Back

A category of composition with a particular style, form, and content. Examples include mysteries and adventure stories.

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Summarize

Back

To give the main events of a story in the order in which they happen.

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Metaphor

Back

A figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as'. Example: 'Time is a thief.'

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Personification

Back

Attributing human characteristics to non-human objects or abstract ideas. Example: 'The wind whispered through the trees.'

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Theme

Back

The central idea or message in a literary work.

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Plot

Back

The sequence of events in a story, including the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

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Characterization

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The process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character.