Literary Terms Quiz

What is the writer's attitude toward or feelings about the subject matter and audience called?

• Mood

• Theme

• Tone

• Setting

Answer explanation

The writer's attitude toward the subject matter and audience is referred to as 'tone.' It reflects how the writer feels and conveys their perspective, distinguishing it from mood, theme, or setting.

What term describes the feeling or emotion the audience gains from a piece of literature?

• Theme

• Mood

• Plot

• Conflict

Answer explanation

The term 'mood' refers to the emotional atmosphere that a piece of literature evokes in the audience. It captures the feelings experienced while reading, distinguishing it from theme, plot, and conflict.

What is the universal message or moral about a topic that the author wants readers to understand?

• Plot

• Setting

• Theme

• Resolution

Answer explanation

The theme is the universal message or moral that the author conveys through the narrative. It encapsulates the deeper meaning behind the plot and characters, guiding readers to understand the author's intended insights.

What is the term for the events in a story?

• Plot

• Conflict

• Resolution

• Characterization

Answer explanation

The term 'Plot' refers to the sequence of events in a story, encompassing the main actions and developments. It is distinct from 'Conflict' (the struggle), 'Resolution' (the outcome), and 'Characterization' (the development of characters).

What is the term for when and where a story takes place?

• Theme

• Setting

• Tone

• Mood

Answer explanation

The term 'setting' refers to the time and place in which a story occurs. It establishes the backdrop for the narrative, distinguishing it from other elements like theme, tone, and mood.

What is a problem that the characters have to face in a story called?

• Resolution

• Plot

• Conflict

• Theme

Answer explanation

In a story, the problem that characters face is called 'conflict.' It drives the plot and creates tension, making it essential for character development and resolution.

What is the ending of a story that wraps up loose ends called?

• Plot

• Resolution

• Conflict

• Setting

Answer explanation

The ending of a story that wraps up loose ends is called the resolution. It provides closure to the plot and resolves any remaining conflicts, making it essential for a satisfying conclusion.

What is the author's intent in writing, or the reason or motivation for writing a text?

• Thesis

• Inference

• Author’s Purpose

• Paraphrase

Answer explanation

The author's intent in writing a text refers to the 'Author’s Purpose.' This term specifically describes the motivation behind the writing, distinguishing it from other concepts like thesis or inference.

What refers to word choice, or the type of language an author uses?

• Diction

• Clarity

• Inference

• Thesis

Answer explanation

Diction refers to the specific word choice and language style an author employs. It shapes the tone and clarity of the writing, making it the correct answer to the question about language use.

What is the purpose of using contrast in writing?

• To show the differences among things or ideas

• To show the similarities among things or ideas

• To describe or depict something

• To refer to plot events in chronological order

Answer explanation

The purpose of using contrast in writing is to show the differences among things or ideas. This technique helps to highlight unique characteristics and distinctions, making the writing more engaging and informative.