Literary Terms

Front

The main character the author wants the reader to invest in and identify with.

Back

Protagonist

Front

This term identifies the reason that explains a character’s thoughts, feelings, purposeful actions, or speech.

Back

Motivation

Front

The method an author uses to let readers "hear" or "see" what takes place in a story, poem, or essay.

Back

Point of view

Front

The manner in which an author presents characters through description and by building complexity to the cast.

Back

Characterization

Front

Identifies a character or force in conflict with the story's primary character.

Back

Antagonist

Front

Point of greatest dramatic intensity; the high point of the story.

Back

Climax

Front

Rising action

Back

A series of plot problems as the story becomes more complicated, conflict intensifies, and builds to a climax.

Front

This term identifies a struggle within a character’s mind dealing with decision-making, guilt, or inaction.

Back

Internal conflict

Front

This term identifies hints about events coming later.

Back

Foreshadowing

Front

Term for a struggle between a person and an outside force

Back

External conflict