Literary Terms Literary terms are necessary for us to understand so we are able to discuss and analyze literature in a professional way.

Characters Characters are the “beings” in a work of literature. Characters can be real or imaginary. They are (usually) the “people” doing the action. Their “personalities” can be developed throughout the course of the story.

Characterization The author’s expression of a character’s personality through the use of action, dialogue, thought, commentary, or narration by the author or by/through another character. For Example:

Types of Characters Protagonist- The main character in a literary work. Antagonist- A character or force in opposition with the main character. Example:

Round vs. Flat Round Character- This character is fully developed with complexities—more like a real person. The character may be unpredictable and multifaceted. Flat Character- A character that is plain, predictable, and somewhat undeveloped by the author: Examples: – Round: – Flat:

Dynamic vs. Static Dynamic Character- This is a character that changes in some way over the course of the narrative. Like a “real person”, this character may come to a realization that causes him/her to adjust. Static Character- This character remains the same without altering or adjusting. Examples: – Dynamic: – Static:

Stock Character, Situation, & Response Stock characters are characters who represent a specific stereotype. They may be round or flat but overall are there as a stereotypical representation of something. – Example: the damsel in distress, the naïve country bumpkin, the corrupt police officer, the self-derogatory understated teen, etc… Stock situations are situations that occur again and again in literature such as: mistaken identity, a love triangle, being on a deserted island, etc… Stock response—a reaction according to standard behavior (predictable) such as: booing a villain and cheering a hero.

Conflict The struggle within the story. Without conflict there is no story. 1. Character vs. self 2. Character vs. character 3. Character vs. society 4. Character vs. nature 5. Character vs. God

Dialogue Vocal exchange between two or more characters. One of the ways in which plot, character, action, etc… are developed

Diction Diction refers to the author’s choice of words. The author might use an expansive vocabulary or slang to help achieve his/her goals.

Figurative Language Language which uses “figures of speech” to convey meaning. Figurative language is NOT meant to be taken literally. Types of figurative language include: Metaphor (simple or extended) Simile Alliteration Symbol Hyperbole

Metaphor

Imagery Collection of images within a literary work. Covers the use of language to represent: Objects, actions, feelings, thoughts, ideas, states of mind, or sensory experiences. Often used to evoke atmosphere, mood, tension or to truly communicate to the reader. Give one example: ____________________________________________ __________________________________________ _______________________

How Imagery is Created Imagery can be created through figurative language such as: Metaphor Simile Onomatopoeia OR can stimulate the senses: Visual (eyes) Olfactory (smell) Tactile (touch) Auditory (ears/hearing) Gustatory (taste) OR Abstract/ Kinaesthetic (thinking/moving)

Theme The theme is a central message or insight into life revealed through a literary work. May be stated directly or implied. Causes readers to think about what the work suggests about people or life. Example:

Tone The tone of a literary work is the author’s attitude toward his or her audience and the subject. The tone should be described with a single adjective such as: formal or informal, serious or playful

Mood (or Atmosphere) The feeling created by the author for the reader. The mood is often suggested by descriptive details (created  through  Imagery) The mood should be described with an adjective such as: lighthearted, frightening, etc…

Plot Exposition Rising Action Climax Falling Action Resolution

Plot Plot is the sequence of events in a literary work. Involves characters and a central conflict Elements of plot include: Exposition, Rising Action, Climax. Falling Action, and Resolution

Elements of Plot Exposition- the introduction of information including setting, characters and circumstance. Rising action- the suspense of the story begins to build. Climax- Characters realize the severity of the issue or conflict Falling action- After the climax is realized, characters strive for a resolution…there is an “answer” in sight Resolution- The conflict is resolved.

Symbolism A symbol is something that stands for something else. A symbol is a visual or physical representation of a character, thought, or idea. Examples: -The American flag… - A peace sign…

Irony “saying one thing but meaning another…” Irony comes in many forms… Examples:  Verbal Irony- (sarcasm) when an actual meaning of what is said differs greatly from the words used to describe it.  Dramatic Irony-  Situational Irony-

Types of Irony  Verbal Irony- (sarcasm) when an actual meaning of what is said differs greatly from the words used to describe it.  Dramatic Irony-  Situational Irony-