Lester's Lit Terms

Symbolic device in which characters or events in a story represent or symbolize ideas and concepts. 

• Alliteration
• Allusion
• Allegory
• Analogy

Repetition of an initial consonant sound. This literary term is often used in poetry. 

• Allegory
• Alliteration
• Antithesis
• Archetype

A figure of speech where the author refers to a subject matter such as a person, place, event, or literary work in a passing reference. It is up to the reader to make a connection to the subject being mentioned. 

• Antagonist
• Alliteration
• Analogy
• Allusion

An extremely popular form of literary device wherein the writer jumbles up parts of the word to create a new word. It is a type of wordplay! 

• Archetype
• Anagram
• Anthropomorphism
• Allegory

A comparison between two things for the purpose of explanation or clarification. 

• Apostrophe
• Analogy
• Antithesis
• Archetype

A character, group of characters, or institution that opposes the protagonist or main character. 

• Anti-hero
• Antagonist
• Apostrophe
• Anagram

A central character who lacks conventional heroic qualities. They blur the line between hero and villain. 

• Anti-Hero
• Archetype
• Analogy
• Anthology

Occurs when a human quality, emotion or ambition is given to a non-human object or being. 

• Allegory
• Anthropomorphism
• Atmosphere
• Archetype

Used when the writer puts two sentences of contrasting meanings close to one another. 

• Allegory
• Antithesis
• Alliteration
• Allusion

A figure of speech in which the speaker addresses an object, concept, or person (often absent) that is unable to respond. 

• Analogy
• Alliteration
• Allegory
• Apostrophe