Literary Devices

A literary work that has a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.

• Allusion

• Hyperbole

• Allegory

• Satire

A literary device that presents a situation that is the opposite of what one expects.

• Metaphor

• Setting

• Allusion

• Irony

An element of literature that pits the lead character against an opposing force, sometimes him- or herself.

• Conflict

• Irony

• Hyperbole

• Motivation

A literary device that uses a person, place, or thing to represent a broader idea.

• Personification

• Theme

• Simile

• Symbol

The particular feeling or state of mind that a literary work causes in the reader.

• Mood

• Tone

• Moral

• Suspense

The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.

• Synecdoche

• Satire

• Fable

• Alliteration

An author's attitude toward the subject matter, conveyed through the words and feelings expressed.

• Mood

• Theme

• Tone

• Point of view

A universal idea, lesson, or message explored throughout a work of literature.

• Subject

• Author's purpose

• Characterization

• Theme

A series of words that begin with the same consonant sound.

• Apostrophe

• Alliteration

• Allegory

• Allusion

A figure of speech comparing two seemingly unlike things by calling the one thing the other.

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Contrast

• Comparison