Literary Terms Flashcards

Front

Hamartia

Back

The tragic flaw or error in a protagonist's personality that leads to their downfall.

Front

Peripeteia

Back

A reversal of fortune or circumstances, often when a protagonist's situation changes drastically.

Front

Anagnorisis

Back

The moment of significant discovery or recognition by the protagonist.

Front

Catharsis

Back

The feelings of pity and fear experienced by the audience after the protagonist's downfall.

Front

Mimesis

Back

Representation or imitation of the real world in art.

Front

Agon

Back

Conflict or Struggle.

Front

Desis

Back

Complication.

Front

Lusis

Back

"Untying" or Resolution.

Front

Deus ex Machina

Back

"God from the machine" a literary device where something (event or character) is introduced to solve the problem.