Literary Terms Quiz

Which of the following best describes an antihero in literature?

• A character who is the main antagonist

• A protagonist who lacks traditional heroic attributes

• A literary tool used to create suspense

• A metaphorical expression

Answer explanation

An antithero is defined as a central character who lacks conventional heroic qualities, such as bravery or morality. This contrasts with traditional heroes, making the second answer choice the correct one.

What is an analogy?

• A symbolic device in literature

• A comparison between two things for explanation

• Repetition of an initial consonant sound

• A character who lacks heroic qualities

Answer explanation

An analogy is a comparison between two things that helps explain or clarify an idea by showing how they are similar. This makes the correct choice "A comparison between two things for explanation".

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5A

CCSS.RI.7.4

CCSS.RL.7.4

Which of the following is an example of an anagram?

• Sarah celebrated the sale of her first painting.

• The word 'cinema' can be rearranged to form 'iceman.'

• "Just as a sword is the weapon of a warrior, a pen is the weapon of a writer."

• The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

Answer explanation

An anagram is a word or phrase formed by rearranging the letters of another. 'Cinema' can be rearranged to form 'iceman,' making it a clear example of an anagram, unlike the other options.

When Mason read the poem, he noticed the repetition of an initial consonant sound. What is this literary device called?

• symbolism

• alliteration

• consonance

• allegory

Answer explanation

Alliteration is the repetition of an initial consonant sound in closely placed words, enhancing rhythm and mood in literature. The correct choice highlights this specific literary device.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.4

What is the purpose of using allegory in literature?

• To create a vivid setting

• To convey deeper meanings through symbolism

• To develop complex characters

• To enhance the plot with unexpected twists

Answer explanation

The purpose of using allegory in literature is to convey deeper meanings through symbolism, allowing readers to interpret complex ideas and themes beyond the literal narrative.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.5

Gru is selfish, but humorous and relatable villain. He would be BEST categorized as a/an

• protagonist

• antihero

• personification

• tragic hero

Answer explanation

Gru is characterized as a selfish yet humorous villain, which aligns with the traits of an antihero. Unlike traditional heroes, antiheroes possess flaws and relatable qualities, making them complex and engaging characters.

During a literature class, Aria mentioned a famous line from Shakespeare without directly quoting it. What is this an example of?

• anthropomorphism

• allusion

• simile

• onomatopoeia

Answer explanation

Aria's reference to a famous line from Shakespeare without quoting it is an example of allusion. An allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. It assumes that the reader will make the connection to Shakespeare's writing.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5A

Why is Maleficent considered the antagonist in Sleeping Beauty?

• Maleficent is a fairy who helps Aurora find true love.

• Maleficent is the queen of the kingdom and protects it from invaders.

• Maleficent curses Aurora, creating the main conflict.

• Maleficent is a friend of the fairies who bless Aurora.

Answer explanation

Maleficent is considered the antagonist in Sleeping Beauty because she curses Aurora, which creates the main conflict of the story. This act of cursing directly opposes the well-being of Aurora and drives the plot forward.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

Which of the following is an example of a metaphor?

• "Her smile was as bright as the sun."

• "Time is a thief."

• "Buzz," "crash," and "sizzle."

• "The wind whispered through the trees."

Answer explanation

A metaphor directly compares two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as.' 'Time is a thief' suggests time steals moments, making it a metaphor.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5A

CCSS.RL.7.4

What is the definition of a simile?

• A figure of speech that compares two unrelated things

• A literary device used to compare two things using the words "like," "as," or "than"

• A type of figurative language that gives human characteristics to nonhuman things

• Words whose pronunciations imitate the sounds they describe

Answer explanation

A simile is a literary device that explicitly compares two different things using the words "like," "as," or "than." This distinguishes it from other figures of speech, making the correct choice the one that defines this comparison method.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5A

CCSS.RL.7.4