Literary Terms and Devices

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Epiphany

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a sudden, dramatic realization

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Motif

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a recurring idea or object that supports the theme in a literary work

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Rhetorical question

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a question asked in order to create dramatic effect, to make a point, or to provide character insight rather than to get an answer

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Dramatic irony

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occurs when the full significance of a character’s words or actions are clear to the audience or reader although unknown to the character

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Soliloquy

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a long, dramatic monologue spoken alone by a single character onstage, expressing his or her inner thoughts

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Aside

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a brief comment or speech directed at the audience or one other character; breaking the fourth wall

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Blank verse

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unrhymed iambic pentameter; nobility (not commoners) spoke using this rhythm

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Antithesis

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contrasting ideas are juxtaposed to emphasize their importance or contrasts; uses a parallel structure (“To be or not to be”)

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Paradox

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a statement or situation that appears to be self-contradictory, yet expresses a truth or reality

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Anachronism

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occurs when elements of the story is presented out of its proper historical context