Literary Terms and Concepts Quiz

What is an allusion?

• A direct quote from a famous book

• A type of metaphor

• A reference to something well-known

• A detailed description of a character

Answer explanation

An allusion is a reference to something well-known, such as a person, event, or literary work. It enriches the text by connecting it to broader cultural or historical contexts, making 'A reference to something well-known' the correct choice.

Who is the antagonist in a story?

• The main character

• The character or force opposing the protagonist

• The author

• The narrator

Answer explanation

The antagonist is the character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict in the story. This opposition drives the plot and challenges the main character, making it essential to the narrative.

What is an anecdote?

• A poem

• A short, interesting story about a real event or person

• A long, detailed story

• A fictional tale

Answer explanation

An anecdote is defined as a short, interesting story about a real event or person, making the second answer choice correct. It is not a poem, a long story, or a fictional tale.

What are the three types of author's purpose?

• To explain, analyze, or summarize

• To compare, contrast, or classify

• To inform, persuade, or entertain

• To describe, narrate, or argue

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'To inform, persuade, or entertain', identifies the three main purposes authors have when writing. These purposes guide the content and style of their work, making it essential to understand.

What does the central idea of a text refer to?

• The author's background

• The climax of the story

• The main point or message the author wants you to understand

• The setting of the story

Answer explanation

The central idea of a text refers to the main point or message the author wants you to understand. It encapsulates the essence of the text, unlike the author's background, climax, or setting.

How does an author use characterization?

• By explaining the plot

• By showing what a character is like through actions, speech, and thoughts

• By describing the setting

• By using complex vocabulary

Answer explanation

An author uses characterization by revealing a character's personality through their actions, speech, and thoughts, allowing readers to understand them deeply. This choice effectively illustrates who the character is.

What is the climax of a story?

• The resolution of the conflict

• The introduction of characters

• The beginning of the story

• The most exciting or important moment

Answer explanation

The climax of a story is the most exciting or important moment, where the main conflict reaches its peak. This is the turning point that leads to the resolution, making it a crucial part of the narrative.

What is an internal conflict?

• A struggle inside a character’s mind

• A struggle with nature

• A struggle between two characters

• A struggle with society

Answer explanation

An internal conflict refers to a struggle inside a character’s mind, often involving emotions, desires, or moral dilemmas. This distinguishes it from external conflicts, which involve nature, other characters, or society.

What does diction refer to?

• The setting of the story

• The plot of the story

• The author's choice of words

• The theme of the story

Answer explanation

Diction refers to the author's choice of words, which shapes the tone and style of the writing. It is crucial for conveying meaning and emotion, distinguishing it from elements like setting, plot, or theme.

What is the denotation of a word?

• The historical background of a word

• The cultural significance of a word

• The literal, dictionary meaning of a word

• The feelings a word suggests

Answer explanation

The denotation of a word refers to its literal, dictionary meaning. This is distinct from connotation, which involves the feelings or cultural significance associated with the word.