Literary Terms

Archetype

• a very typical example of a certain person or thing.

• a rare and unique specimen that cannot be replicated.

• a complex and intricate design that is difficult to understand.

• a temporary model used for testing purposes.

Conflict

• the struggle or clash between opposing forces, whether internal or external, that drives the narrative forward and creates tension and interest for the reader

• a peaceful resolution to disagreements that fosters understanding and cooperation

• the harmonious relationship between characters that enhances the story's theme

• the background information that sets the stage for the narrative

climax

• the most intense, exciting, or important point of something; a culmination or apex.

• a point of no return in a story.

• the beginning of a narrative.

• a resolution or conclusion to a story.

Alliteration

• The repetition of the same vowel sound in nearby words.

• The occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.

• The use of contrasting ideas in a sentence.

• The repetition of consonant sounds in the middle of words.

Catharsis

• the use of strong feelings in literature to engage the reader in a type of emotional purification.

• a method of character development through dialogue and action.

• the process of creating tension and conflict in a narrative.

• a literary technique that involves the use of irony and satire.

Anagram

• A literary device where the letters that make up a word, phrase, or name are rearranged to create new ones.

• A type of poem that uses rhyme and meter.

• A figure of speech that involves an exaggeration for emphasis.

• A narrative technique that involves a sudden revelation.

Character (round/dynamic)

• A character that remains unchanged throughout the story.

• A character who is a minor figure in the story.

• A type of character — usually the protagonist or hero — who undergoes major inner change over the course of a story.

• A character that serves as a foil to the protagonist.

Antagonist

• A person who supports and defends someone or something.

• A person who actively opposes or is hostile to someone or something; an adversary.

• A person who collaborates with others to achieve a common goal.

• A person who remains neutral in conflicts.

Analogy

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

• A type of metaphor that uses exaggeration for effect.

• A detailed description of a character's traits.

• A narrative technique that involves a flashback.

Caricature

• a realistic portrayal of a person

• a distorted representation of a person in a way that exaggerates some characteristics and oversimplifies others.

• a detailed biography of a person

• a photographic representation of a person