Literary Terms Quiz

What is the term for a story that begins in the middle of events?

• Deus ex machina

• In media res

• Exposition

• Denouement

Which of the following is an example of verbal irony?

• A character is surprised by an unexpected outcome

• The audience knows something the character does not

• A character says the opposite of what is intended

• A fire station burns down

What is the term for a comparison using 'like' or 'as'?

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Simile

• Allusion

What does the term 'foil' refer to in literature?

• A character that supports the protagonist

• A character or element that contrasts another

• A symbol representing another element

• A journey that ends in failure

Which term describes a philosophical truth in a story?

• Theme

• Mood

• Setting

• Tone

What is the term for giving human characteristics to non-human elements?

• Personification

• Oxymoron

• Metonymy

• Paradox