Literary devices

The central idea of a story that is usually implied rather than directly stated. Theme is a generalization made about life. Theme is NOT a moral plot of a story. Theme

The following are ways to locate or find the theme of a story, novel, or play: Look at how the main character(s) has changed. Look at the central conflict and outcome of that conflict Look at the story, novel, or play’s title for clues. Consider #1-3 as a whole Theme

A literary device which reveals concealed or contradictory meanings. Irony is an important tool of literature because the author suggests meaning without actually stating them. There are three common forms: Verbal, Dramatic, and Situational Irony

When a contrast is evident between what a character says and what the character actually means Character will say one thing but really means something else Sarcasm can many times be a strong example of this type of irony. Verbal Irony

Verbal Irony Examples: Overstatement: “I literally died of embarrassment” Sarcasm: “looks like you’re hard at work” Understatement: “He’s not the worlds best speller” (actually means he’s very poor at spelling) Verbal Irony

When the author shares with the reader information not known by the character(s). The reader becomes aware that a character’s actions may be inappropriate for the actual circumstances. What is to come is the reverse of what a character expects. Example: tv shows/sitcoms Dramatic Irony

Situational Irony Also known as irony of the situation This occurs when a set of circumstances turns out differently from what is expected or considered appropriate. Example: a professional pick-pocket has his own pocket picked while he is in the act of picking someone else’s pocket. Situational Irony

Ironic: you think something is going to happen, but the opposite occurs. Coincidence: a striking occurrence of two or more events at one time apparently by mere chance Coincidence can be ironic. Coincidence vs. Irony

Symbol Something that stands for or represents something else. Examples: white dove represents peace. Black often represents evil. Red rose represents love. Flag represents a country. Symbol

Is the feeling of anxiety and uncertainty experienced by the reader about the outcome of events within a piece of literature. An author will try to keep the reader guessing. Suspense

Contrast Looking at the differences in things, people, ideas. Mixing of situations, characters, settings, moods, tones, or points of view in order to clarify the meaning, purpose, or character(s) within literature. Contrast