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Unit 6 AP Language Vocabulary Flashcards

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3255545752anomaious(adj.) abnormal, irregular, departing from the usual SYNONYMS: exceptional, unusual, aberrant ANTONYMS: normal, regular, customary, typical, ordinary0
3255545753aspersion(n.) a damaging or derogatory statement; the act of slandering or defaming SYNONYMS: innuendo, calumny ANTONYMS: endorsement, praise1
3255545754bizarre(adj.) extremely strange, unusual, atypical SYNONYMS: grotesque, fantastic, outlandish ANTONYMS: normal, typical, ordinary, expected2
3255545755brusque(adj.) abrupt, blunt, with no formalities SYNONYMS: tactless, ungracious ANTONYMS: tactful, diplomatic3
3255545756cajole(v.) to coax, persuade through flattery or artifice; to deceive with soothing thoughts or false promises SYNONYMS: wheedle, inveigle ANTONYMS: coerce, force4
3255545757castigate(v.) to punish severely; to criticize severely SYNONYMS: chastise, censure ANTONYMS: honor, praise, laud5
3255545758contrive(v.) to plan with ingenuity; to bring about through a plan SYNONYMS: think up, concoct, fabricate ANTONYMS:6
3255545759demagogue(n.) a leader who exploits popular prejudices and false claims and promises in order to gain power SYNONYMS: rabble-rouser, firebrand ANTONYMS:7
3255545760disabuse(v.) to free from deception or error, set right in ideas or thinking SYNONYMS: undeceive, enlighten ANTONYMS: deceive, delude, pull wool over one's eyes8
3255545761ennui(n.) weariness and dissatisfaction from lack of occupation or interest, boredom SYNONYMS: languor, world-weariness, listlessness ANTONYMS: enthusiasm, liveliness, excitement, intensity9
3255545762fetter(n.) a chain or shackle placed on the feet (often used in plural); anything that confines or restrains; (v.) to chain or shackle; to render helpless or impotent SYNONYMS: (n.) bond, restraint; (v.) bind, hamper ANTONYMS: (v.) free, liberate, emancipate10
3255545763heinous(adj.) very wicked, offensive, hateful SYNONYMS: evil, odious, outrageous ANTONYMS: excellent, wonderful, splendid11
3255545764immutable(adj.) not subject to change, constant SYNONYMS: unchangeable, unalterable, fixed, invariable ANTONYMS: changeable, inconstant, variable, fickle12
3255545765insurgent(n.) one who rebels or rises against authority; (adj.) rising in revolt, refusing to accept authority; surging or rushing in or on SYNONYMS: (adj.) revolutionary, rebellious, mutinous ANTONYMS: (adj.) loyalist, loyal, faithful13
3255545766megalomania(n.) a delusion marked by a feeling of power, wealth, talent, etc., far in excess of reality SYNONYMS: delusions of grandeur ANTONYMS: modesty, self-abasement14
3255545767sinecure(n.) a position requiring little or no work; an easy job SYNONYMS: "no-show" job, cushy job, "plum" ANTONYMS:15
3255545768surreptitious(adj.) stealthy, secret, intended to escape observation; made or accomplished by fraud SYNONYMS: furtive, covert, clandestine, concealed ANTONYMS: open, frank, aboveboard, overt16
3255545769transgress(v.) to go beyond a limit or boundary; to sin, violate a law SYNONYMS: overstep, trespass ANTONYMS: obey, toe the line17
3255545770transmute(v.) to change from one nature, substance, or form to another SYNONYMS: transform, convert ANTONYMS: preserve, maintain18
3255545771vicarious(adj.) performed, suffered, or otherwise experienced by one person in place of another SYNONYMS: surrogate, secondhand ANTONYMS: actual, firsthand19

AP Literature Vocabulary Flashcards

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3634440345Dappledhaving spots of a different shade, tone, or color from the background; mottled.0
3634440346Appellationa name, title, or designation.1
3634440347Benevolencedesire to do good to others; goodwill; charitableness.2
3634440877Acquiescencegiving tacit assent; agreement or consent by silence or without objection; compliance (usually followed by to or in).3
3634440878Fettersa chain or shackle placed on the feet; anything that confines or restrains.4
3634440879Censureto criticize or reproach in a harsh or vehement manner.5
3634440880Apatheticnot interested or concerned; indifferent or unresponsive.6
3634440881Exhortsto urge, advise, or caution earnestly; admonish urgently.7
3634441724Patronized1. to give (a store, restaurant, hotel, etc.) one's regular patronage; trade with. 2. to behave in an offensively condescending manner toward.8
3634441725Immemorialextending back beyond memory, record, or knowledge.9
3634441726Idlenot working or active; unemployed; doing nothing.10
3634441727Adversarya person, group, or force that opposes or attacks; opponent; enemy; foe.11
3634442389Ephemerallasting a very short time; short-lived; transitory.12
3634442390Discursiveness1. the act of passing aimlessly from one subject to another; digressive; rambling. 2. the act of proceeding by reasoning or argument rather than intuition.13
3634442391Jiltedrejected or cast aside (a lover or sweetheart), especially abruptly or unfeelingly.14
3634443023Impertinence1. unmannerly intrusion or presumption; insolence. 2. irrelevance, inappropriateness, or absurdity.15
3634443024Bemused1. bewildered or confused. 2. lost in thought; preoccupied.16
3634443025Bereft1. (adj) deprived. 2. (verb past tense) deprived and made desolate, especially by death (usually followed by of).17
3634443026Effusionan unrestrained expression, as of feelings.18
3634443531Subversivetending or intending to overthrow, destroy, or undermine an established or existing system, especially a legally constituted government or a set of beliefs.19
3634443532Demure1. characterized by shyness and modesty; reserved. 2. affectedly or coyly decorous, sober, or sedate.20
3634443533Idealizedrepresented something in a perfect form.21
3634443534Mercurial1. changeable; volatile; fickle; flighty; erratic. 2. animated; lively; sprightly; quick-witted.22
3634443535Ardor1. great warmth of feeling; fervor; passion. 2. intense devotion, eagerness, or enthusiasm; zeal. 3. burning heat.23
3634444228Trammelsa hindrance or impediment to free action; restraint.24
3634444229Forlorn1. desolate or dreary; unhappy or miserable, as in feeling, condition, or appearance. 2. lonely and sad; forsaken. 3. expressive of hopelessness; despairing. 4. bereft; destitute.25
3634444230Facetious1. not meant to be taken seriously or literally. 2. amusing; humorous.26
3634444231Exasperation1. an act or instance of provoking. 2. irritation; extreme annoyance.27
3634444842Digressiona passage or section that deviates from the central theme in speech or writing.28
3634444843Paradoxicalself-contradictory.29
3634444844Portany of a class of very sweet wines, mostly dark-red, originally from Portugal.30
3634444845Idyllicmuch like a poem or prose composition, usually describing pastoral scenes or events or any charmingly simple episode, appealing incident, or the like.31
3634444846Beguilinginfluencing by trickery, flattery, etc.; misleading; deluding.32
3634447380Terseneatly or effectively concise; brief and pithy, as language.33
3634447381Zealousardently active, devoted, or diligent.34
3634447382Infirmity1. a physical weakness or ailment. 2. lack of strength. 3. a moral weakness or failing.35
3634447383Incredulousdisinclined or indisposed to believe; skeptical.36
3634448359Callous1. made hard; hardened. 2. insensitive; indifferent; unsympathetic.37
3634448360Indignantfeeling, characterized by, or expressing strong displeasure at something considered unjust, offensive, insulting, or base.38
3634448361Disenchantmentto rid of or free from illusion, credulity, etc.; disillusion.39
3634448362Sprightlyanimated, vivacious, or gay; lively.40
3634449545Enigmaa puzzling or inexplicable occurrence or situation.41
3634449546Grim1. stern and admitting of no appeasement or compromise. 2. of a sinister or ghastly character; repellent. 3. having a harsh, surly, forbidding, or morbid air.42
3634449547Despondencedepression of spirits from loss of courage or hope; dejection.43
3634449548Discernmentdiscrimination; acuteness of judgment and understanding.44
3634450305Rheumatismany disorder of the extremities or back, characterized by pain and stiffness.45
3634450306Self-effacingto keep oneself in the background, as in humility.46
3634450307Sardoniccharacterized by bitter or scornful derision; mocking; cynical; sneering:47
3634450308Conciliatory1. tending to overcome the distrust or hostility of; placate; win over. 2. tending to make compatible; reconcile.48
3634452479Scantybarely sufficient.49
3634452480Passivitythe state of not reacting visibly to something that might be expected to produce manifestations of an emotion or feeling.50
3634452481Lofty1. extending high in the air; of imposing height; towering. 2. exalted in rank, dignity, or character; eminent. 3. elevated in style, tone, or sentiment, as writings or speech. 4. arrogantly or condescendingly superior in manner; haughty.51
3634452482Compliancethe act of conforming, acquiescing, or yielding.52
3634452483Raillerygood-humored ridicule; banter.53
3634453347Pragmatismcharacter or conduct that emphasizes practicality.54
3634453348Remiss1. negligent, careless, or slow in performing one's duty, business, etc. 2. characterized by negligence or carelessness. 3. lacking force or energy; languid; sluggish.55
3634453349Impoliticnot shrewd or prudent in practical matters; not tactful, diplomatic, expedient, or judicious.56
3634453350Pretentiouscharacterized by assumption of dignity or importance, especially when exaggerated or undeserved.57
3634454796Aberrant1. departing from the right, normal, or usual course. 2. deviating from the ordinary, usual, or normal type; exceptional; abnormal.58

Ap literature vocabulary #2 Flashcards

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7401684438Hyperboleexaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.0
7401684439Dictionthe choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing.1
7401684440generic conventionsdescribes traditions for each genre2
7401684441extended metaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.3
7401684442Genrea division or type of literature4
7401684443figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things.5
7401684444Homilya sermon, or a moralistic lecture6
7401684445EuphemismAn indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant7
7401684446DidacticIntended to instruct8
7401684447figurative languagewriting or speech not meant to be taken literally9
7401684448DenotationThe dictionary definition of a word10
7401684449Imageryvisually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work.11
7401684450EpistropheRepetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive clauses12

AP English Literature Biblical Allusions Flashcards

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6915548724Abraham and SarahHe is the first patriarch of Judaism (first person to accept monotheism). She is his wife. They were married for a long time and had no children. She suggested that he mate with her maid-servant, Hagar, so that he would have an heir. After than child was born, Sarah became pregnant and forced Abraham to throw out the maid and her son, because she was jealous. Their son is Isaac.0
6915548725Adam and Evethe first man and woman; she's created from a rib taken from him. They live in bliss in the Garden of Eden until Eve is persuaded by a Serpent into eating the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge, which she then offers to Adam. After they eat, they realize they're naked and become ashamed. God (with some help from the Archangel Gabriel and his flaming sword) expels them from Eden as punishment; often referred to as the "fall from grace," or "loss of innocence."1
6915548726Anti-Christ/Armaggedonthe Anti-Christ is the antagonist of Christ who will appear before the Second Coming, claiming to be Christ, and make serious trouble until Christ actually appears and defeats him, probably at the battle of Armaggedon, a great battle between the forces of good and evil that is to occur at the end of the world. Armaggedon now means any great and decisive battle.2
6915548727Babylonan ancient city of Mesopotamia known for its wealth, luxury, and vice.3
6915548728Cain and Abelthe two sons of Adam and Eve. Cain was older and a farmer; Abel was a shepherd. They made offerings to God, who liked Abel's lamb better than Cain's wheat. Cain was jealous and slew Abel, for which he was forced to roam as an outcast, with a horrible mark on his forehead that showed that he killed his brother. He said, "Am I my brother's keeper?"4
6915548729Daniela young Hebrew prophet who prayed even when the king had ordered that no one pray. For this, he was thrown into a lion's den, where he should have been killed. Instead, God saved him and he came out of the lion's den unhurt. A symbol of God's protection and the rewards of faith.5
6915548730The Divine Comedywritten by Dante Alighieri between 1308 and his death in 1321, is widely considered the central epic poem of Italian literature, and one of the greatest of world literature. Its influence is so great that it affects the Christian view of the afterlife to this day. The Divine Comedy is composed of three canticas, Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso (Paradise). In the Inferno, Dante is led by the poet Virgil into the underworld, where he experiences and describes each of the nine circles of hell. The sign at the entrance to Hell reads: "Abandon all hope, ye who enter here."6
6915548731Davida young boy who had the courage to fight the huge enemy, Goliath, whom he killed with a slingshot. He became king and was quite good, except for lusting after a married woman (Bathsheba), whose husband he then sent to the front lines to get conveniently killed so David could marry her. They became the parents of Absalom and Solomon.7
6915548732Edenearthly paradise for Adam and Eve8
6915548733Esthera Jewish woman married to a Persian king. An evil man wanted to kill the Jews but Esther stopped him by pleading with her husband.9
6915548734Gideonan Israeli judge. In a major battle, when his forces were massively outnumbered, he fooled the opposition by making noise with trumpets that made the enemy think that the Hebrew forces were much larger than they really were.10
6915548735Goliatha huge warrior of the Philistines who was killed by a boy (David) with a slingshot; a symbol of great power that can be overpowered.11
6915548736Good Samaritana famous New Testament parable, that appears only in the Gospel of Luke (10:25-37). The parable is told by Jesus to illustrate the precepts that a person's fitness for eternal life is defined by his or her actions, that compassion should be for all people, and that fulfilling the spirit of the Law is more important than fulfilling the letter of the Law. Jesus tells a parable about a traveler who was attacked, robbed, stripped, and left for dead by the side of a road. Later, a priest saw the stricken figure and avoided him, presumably in order to maintain ritual purity. Similarly, a Levite saw the man and ignored him as well. Then a Samaritan passed by, and, despite the mutual antipathy between his and the Jewish populations, immediately rendered assistance by giving him first aid and taking him to an inn to recover while promising to cover the expenses. By extension, a Good Samaritan is a generous person who is ready to provide aid to people in distress without hesitation.12
6915548737Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John)the "Good News": first four books of the New Testament, all telling the life of Jesus, but from four different perspectives. "The Gospel" has come to mean any statement that is unquestionably true.13
6915548738Hagar and IshmaelHagar is the maid of Sarah that Abraham had a child with and Ishmael is the child, who became a wandering outcast.14
6915548739Herodthe king of the Hebrews who ordered John the Baptist beheaded for Salome's reward and who ordered all Jewish males under age two killed to prevent the "King of the Jews" from overthrowing him.15
6915548740Holy Grailthe dish, plate, cup or vessel used by Jesus at the Last Supper, said to possess miraculous powers. It has long been the object of fruitless quests. By extension, the object of an extended or difficult quest.16
6915548741Isaacthe son of Abraham and Sarah. God tested Abraham's faith by ordering him to sacrifice Isaac on a mountain. They went up to the mountain, with Isaac just a bit suspicious that there was no animal to sacrifice (Abraham said that God would provide). Just as Abraham was about to slit Isaac's throat, an angel stayed his hand and he then saw a ram caught in nearby bushes, which he sacrificed instead.17
6915548742JacobSon of Isaac and brother of Esau, whose birthright and blessing he stole when Isaac was on his deathbed. Later, he dreamt of a ladder that one could climb to get to heaven, with each rung being a good deed. He decided to apologize to Esau and then went on to have twelve sons, who became the twelve tribes of Israel.18
6915548743Jesus Christ/carpenter/lambJesus Christ is a figure of martyrdom, sacrifice, and loving forgiveness. He is often symbolized as either a carpenter (which he had actually been, along with Joseph) or a lamb (a common sacrificial animal).19
6915548744Jezebelthe wife of Ahab (a king of Israel), notorious for her evil and vicious actions.20
6915548745Joba symbol of loyalty and faith in God. God and Satan made a bet as to whether or not Job would curse God, no matter what bad things occurred. God gave Satan free rein to test Job; everything bad happened that could possibly and still Job didn't curse God. Eventually, god won the bet and gave Job back all the things he had lost.21
6915548746John the Baptistborn before Jesus and announced his coming. Baptized Jesus and was one of his followers. After Jesus's death, he was captured by Herod for preaching Jesus's word. Salome danced for Herod, who offered her any gift in payment for her wonderful dancing. She requested the head of John the Baptist, which was delivered to her on a sliver platter.22
6915548747Jonaha Hebrew whom God commanded to go to Nineveh to tell the people there to stop sinning. He didn't want to and tried to escape by boat, but God made a great storm. When the others on board realized that Jonah was the person God was mad at, they threw him overboard. He was then swallowed by a "great fish" (whale). He lived inside it for several days, repented, and was regurgitated on the beach. He then went quickly to Nineveh and followed God's orders. A symbol of learning the hard way.23
6915548748Josephfirstborn son of Rachel and Jacob, who loved him more than all his other sons because he loved the mother (Rachel) more than the mother of his other children (Leah). Joseph flaunted his father's favor, especially by showing off his many-colored coat that was a gift from Dad. Other brothers were very jealous and planned to murder him; instead, they sold him into slavery and he was taken to Egypt, where his ability to interpret dreams led him to become the pharaoh's right-hand man.24
6915548749Judas Iscariotone of the twelve original disciples of Jesus. He sold out to the Romans for thirty pieces of silver. He kissed Jesus in public so the Romans would know which man was Jesus and could arrest him. The "kiss of Judas" is an act of betrayal, especially one that looks like a loving action.25
6915548750Lazarusa man who Jesus raised from the dead, even though he'd been buried for three days. A symbol of Jesus's power and of possibilities.26
6915548751Loaves and fishesone of Jesus's most famous miracles. Many people came to hear him preach to feed the masses he multiplied a few loaves and fishes. Everyone was fed with food to spare. Symbolizes a miraculous appearance of resources. Lucifer/Devil/Beelzebub/flies: Lucifer was originally the top angel and sat at God's right hand. He got jealous and attempted a coup, which failed. He was sent to Hell, where he is more commonly called the Devil or Satan. Beelzebub was originally a Philistine deity worshipped as the lord of the flies; that name (and image) was transferred to Christianity; in Paradise Lost, Beelzebub ranks next to Satan.27
6915548752Mary and Josephthe father and virgin mother of Jesus. Mary was told by the angel Gabriel that she and her husband would bear the son of God; a carpenter.28
6915548753Mary Magdalenea prostitute who came to hear Jesus preach and was accepted by him and became a devout follower. Initially, his other followers were shocked, but he said, "Let he among you who is without sin cast the first stone," so they shut up. She is a symbol of the absolute possibility of repentance and acceptance by God. She is referred to in the Bible as the "favorite" disciple.29
6915548754Moses and Aaronbrothers who worked together to save the Israelites (Jews) from slavery in Egypt (they were still there from Joseph's time). Moses was the leader and God spoke to him, but he stuttered, so Aaron actually spoke to the people and told them what God told Moses. Moses led them across the Red Sea, which parted, and into the desert, where they roamed for many years. He went up to Mount Sinai, where God gave him the Ten Commandments. He was gone a long time and the people started to get nervous, so they built an idol to worship: a golden calf. When Moses came and found them worshipping an idol, he was so upset that he broke the tablets the commandments were on. After they destroyed the calf, he went back and got another copy of the commandments.30
6915548755NoahAfter receiving a message from God, Noah built an ark, on which all the animals on the earth went, two by two, to escape drowning in the great flood, which lasted 40 days and 40 nights.31
6915548756Paradise Lost(1167) an epic poem by the 17th century English poet John Milton. The poem concerns the Christian story of the rise of Man: the temptation of Adam and Eve by Satan and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden.32
6915548757Paullargely the developer of Christianity as an organized system of beliefs; he took his information on the road and went preaching in towns all over the mid-East, just ahead of Romans out to kill him for being a rabble-rouser. After he left a town where he had preached, he often wrote numerous letters to his followers there, to keep them with the faith. The most famous are the Epistles (letters) to the Corinthians.33
6915548758Peterthe first "pope" of the Christian church. His name means "rock" in Latin and he provided the foundation for building the church itself, figuratively.34
6915548759Philistinesthe traditional enemies of the Hebrews, known for their barbarism and indifference to art and culture.35
6915548760Prodigal Sona wastrel who returns home and is welcomed with open arms. His brother, who had remained home to serve their father, is angry and jealous of the wastrel's warm reception. Symbolizes the benevolence and generosity of God's (or anyone's) forgiveness; unconditional love.36
6915548761Rachel and Leahwives of Jacob. He fell in love with Rachel, the younger. Her father said Jacob could marry her if he worked for the father for seven years. Jacob did so. After the wedding, when he lifted the veil, he found that he'd married Leah, who had to marry first since she was older. He still wanted Rachel, so the father said Jacob could have her after another seven years of labor, which he did. Meanwhile, he and Leah turned out kids like crazy.37
6915548762Ruth and NaomiNaomi was a Hebrew whose son married Ruth, a Moabite (foreigner). After the son died, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi rather than returning to her own people. She is the first convert to Judaism and a symbol of loyalty.38
6915548763Samson and DelilahHe had great strength because he had never cut his hair (he was a Nazarite, his life consecrated to the Lord). She was from the enemy tribe (the Philistines) and became his mistress and then betrayed him by cutting his hair while he slept. The Philistines captured and blinded him, but Samson eventually found enough strength to destroy his enemies by pulling down the pillars of the temple they were all in, even though doing so meant that he would die too.39
6915548764Sinaithe desert where the Jews roamed for many years, before getting to the Promised Land.40
6915548765Sodom and GomorrahAccording to the Bible, the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah — called as a group The Cities on the Plain - were destroyed by God for their sins. It is often postulated that the sin of Sodom was homosexuality and rape. Before it was destroyed, a virtuous couple, Lot and his wife, were advised by God to leave the city immediately and not look back. Lot's wife submitted to temptation and, as she looked back on the city, she was turned into a pillar of salt.41
6915548766Solomonking of the Hebrews known for his wisdom. When two women appeared before him, both claiming that the same baby belonged to both of them, he ordered it cut in half, so each woman could have half. The woman who screamed not to cut the baby was given it, since Solomon determined that she must really love it, since she didn't want it to die.42
6915548767The Magithe Wise Men who followed the star to Bethlehem to see baby Jesus the night he was born and brought him gifts to honor his birth; often referred to as the "Adoration of the Magi."43
6915548768Tree of Knowledgethe one tree whose fruit (apple) God forbade Adam and Eve from eating. After they do so (on the advice of Satan, disguised as a serpent), they gain knowledge of good and evil, but are banished from paradise.44

AP Literature Review Terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
8470142020allegorystory or poem that can be used to reveal a hidden meaning0
8470142021alliterationbeginning of same letter or sound in closely connected words1
8470142022allusionindirect of passing reference2
8470142023anaphorarepetition in first part of a sentence , to have an artistic meaning3
8470142024antagonista hostile person who is opposed to another character4
8470142025apostrophefigure of speech used to adresss an imaginary character5
8470142026assonancerepetition of vowel sounds6
8470142027flat characterstory character who have no depth, usually has one personality or characteristic7
8470142028round charactercharacter who has complex personality: contradicted person8
8470142029dynamic characterchanges throughout the story, through major conflict9
8470142030static characterperson who doesn't change throughout story keeps same personality10
8470142031characterizationprocess of revealing characters personality11
8470142032climaxpoint where conflict hits its highest point12
8470142033comedydrama that is amusing or funny13
8470142034conflictstruggle between opposing forces14
8470142035connotationsecondary meaning to a word15
8470142036consonancerepetition of same consonant in words close together16
8470142037couplettwo rhyming lines in a verse17
8470142038denotationthe literal meaning of a word18
8470142039denouementfinal outcome of the story19
8470142040figurative languageLanguage that cannot be taken literally since it was written to create a special effect or feeling.20
8470142041imageryDescription that appeals to the senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste)21
8470142042ironyA contrast between expectation and reality22
8470142043verbal ironyA figure of speech in which what is said is the opposite of what is meant23
8470142044dramatic ironyIrony that occurs when the meaning of the situation is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play.24
8470142045irony of situationrefers to an occurrence that is contrary to what is expected or intended25
8470142046metaphorA comparison without using like or as26
8470142047metonymyA figure of speech in which something is referred to by using the name of something that is associated with it27
8470142048motivationA need or desire that energizes and directs behavior28
8470142049narratorPerson telling the story29
8470142050onomatopoeiaA word that imitates the sound it represents.30
8470142051hyperboleA figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humor31
8470142052oxymoronA figure of speech that combines opposite or contradictory terms in a brief phrase.32
8470142053paradoxA contradiction or dilemma33
8470142054personificationA figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes34
8470142055plotSequence of events in a story35
8470142056omniscient point of viewThe point of view where the narrator knows everything about the characters and their problems - told in the 3rd person.36
8470142057third person limited point of viewnarrator tells the story from only one character's pov37
8470142058first person point of viewa character in the story is actually telling the story himself/herself38
8470142059objective point of viewa narrator who is totally impersonal and objective tells the story, with no comment on any characters or events.39
8470142060protagonistMain character40
8470142061quatrainA four line stanza41
8470142062satireA literary work that criticizes human misconduct and ridicules vices, stupidities, and follies.42
8470142063soliloquyA long speech expressing the thoughts of a character alone on stage43
8470142064stream of consciousnessprivate thoughts of a character without commentary44
8470142065symbolA thing that represents or stands for something else45
8470142066synecdochea figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa46
8470142067themeCentral idea of a work of literature47
8470142068toneAttitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character48
8470142069tragedyA serious form of drama dealing with the downfall of a heroic or noble character49
8470142070understatementthe deliberate representation of something as lesser in magnitude than it actually is; a deliberate under-emphasis50

AP Literature Terms Flashcards

The Glossary of Literary Terms for the AP English Literature and Composition Test

Terms : Hide Images
4283442179AestheticAppealing to the senses; a coherent sense of taste.0
4283442180AllegoryA story in which each aspect of the story has a symbolic meaning outside the tale itself.1
4283442181AlliterationThe repetition of initial consonant sounds.2
4283442182AllusionA reference to another work or famous figure.3
4283442183Anachronism"Misplaced in time." An aspect of a story that doesn't belong in its supposed time setting.4
4283442184AnalogyA comparison, usually involving two or more symbolic parts, employed to clarify an action or a relationship.5
4283442185AnecdoteA Short Narrative6
4283442187AnthropomorphismWhen inanimate objects are given human characteristics. Often confused with personification.7
4283442188AnticlimaxOccurs when an action produces far smaller results than one had been led to expect.8
4283442189AntiheroA protagonist who is markedly unheroic: morally weak, cowardly, dishonest, or any number of other unsavory qualities.9
4283442190AphorismA short and usually witty saying.10
4283442191ApostropheA figure of speech wherein the speaker talks directly to something that is nonhuman.11
4283442192ArchaismThe use of deliberately old-fashioned language.12
4283442193AsideA speech (usually just a short comment) made by an actor to the audience, as though momentarily stepping outside of the action on stage.13
4283442195AssonanceThe repeated use of vowel sounds: "Old king Cole was a merry old soul."14
4283442196AtmosphereThe emotional tone or background that surrounds a scene15
4283442197BalladA long, narrative poem, usually in meter and rhyme. Typically has a naive folksy quality.16
4283442198BathosWriting strains for grandeur it can't support and tries too hard to be a tear jerker.17
4283442199PathosWriting evokes feelings of dignified pity and sympathy.18
4283442200Black humorThe use of disturbing themes in comedy.19
4283442201BombastPretentious, exaggeratedly learned language.20
4283442202BurlesqueBroad parody, one that takes a style or form and exaggerates it into ridiculousness.21
4283442203CacophonyIn poetry, using deliberately harsh, awkward sounds.22
4283442204CadenceThe beat or rhythm or poetry in a general sense.23
4283442205CantoThe name for a section division in a long work of poetry.24
4283442206CaricatureA portrait (verbal or otherwise) that exaggerates a facet of personality.25
4283442207CatharsisDrawn from Aristotle's writings on tragedy. Refers to the "cleansing" of emotion an audience member experiences during a play26
4283442208ChorusIn Greek drama, the group of citizens who stand outside the main action on stage and comment on it.27
4283442209ClassicTypical, or an accepted masterpiece.28
4283442210Coinage (neologism)A new word, usually one invented on the spot.29
4283442211ColloquialismA word or phrase used in everyday conversational English that isn't a part of accepted "school-book" English.30
4283442212Complex (Dense)Suggesting that there is more than one possibility in the meaning of words; subtleties and variations; multiple layers of interpretation; meaning both explicit and implicit31
4283442213Conceit (Controlling Image)A startling or unusual metaphor, or to a metaphor developed and expanded upon several lines.32
4283442214DenotationA word's literal meaning.33
4283442215ConnotationEverything other than the literal meaning that a word suggests or implies.34
4283442216ConsonanceThe repetition of consonant sounds within words (rather than at their beginnings)35
4283442217CoupletA pair of lines that end in rhyme36
4283442218DecorumA character's speech must be styled according to her social station, and in accordance to the situation.37
4283442219DictionThe words an author chooses to use.38
4283442220SyntaxThe ordering and structuring of words.39
4283442221DirgeA song for the dead. Its tone is typically slow, heavy, depressed, and melancholy40
4283442222DissonanceRefers to the grating of incompatible sounds.41
4283442223DoggerelCrude, simplistic verse, often in sing-song rhyme, like limericks.42
4283442224Dramatic IronyWhen the audience knows something that the characters in the drama do not43
4283442225Dramatic MonologueWhen a single speaker in literature says something to a silent audience.44
4283442226ElegyA type of poem that meditates on death or mortality in a serious, thoughtful manner.45
4283442227ElementsBasic techniques of each genre of literature46
4283442228EnjambmentThe continuation of a syntactic unit from one line or couplet of a poem to the next with no pause.47
4283442229EpicA very long narrative poem on a serious theme in a dignified style; typically deal with glorious or profound subject matter.48
4283442230EpitaphLines that commemorate the dead at their burial place.49
4283442231EuphemismA word or phrase that takes the place of a harsh, unpleasant, or impolite reality.50
4283442232EuphonyWhen sounds blend harmoniously.51
4283442233ExplicitTo say or write something directly and clearly.52
4283442234FarceExtremely broad humor; in earlier times, a funny play or a comedy.53
4283442235Feminine rhymeLines rhymed by their final two syllables. Properly, the penultimate syllables are stressed and the final syllables are unstressed.54
4283442236FoilA secondary character whose purpose is to highlight the characteristics of a main character, usually by contrast.55
4283442237FootThe basic rhythmic unit of a line of poetry, formed by a combination of two or three syllables, either stressed or unstressed.56
4283442238ForeshadowingAn event of statement in a narrative that in miniature suggests a larger event that comes later.57
4283442239Free versepoetry written without a regular rhyme scheme or metrical pattern58
4283442241GothicA sensibility that includes such features as dark, gloomy castles and weird screams from the attic each night.59
4283442242HubrisThe excessive pride or ambition that leads to the main character's downfall60
4283442243HyperboleExaggeration or deliberate overstatement.61
4283442244ImplicitTo say or write something that suggests and implies but never says it directly or clearly.62
4283442245In media resLatin for "in the midst of things," i.e. beginning an epic poem in the middle of the action.63
4283442246Interior MonologueRefers to writing that records the mental talking that goes on inside a character's head; tends to be coherent.64
4283442247InversionSwitching the customary order of elements in a sentence or phrase.65
4283442248IronyA statement that means the opposite of what it seems to mean; uses an undertow of meaning, sliding against the literal a la Jane Austen.66
4283442249LamentA poem of sadness or grief over the death of a loved one or over some other intense loss.67
4283442250LampoonA satire.68
4283442251Loose sentenceA sentence that is complete before its end: Jack loved Barbara despite her irritating snorting laugh.69
4283442252Periodic SentenceA sentence that is not grammatically complete until it has reached it s final phrase: Despite Barbara's irritation at Jack, she loved him.70
4283442253LyricA type of poetry that explores the poet's personal interpretation of and feelings about the world.71
4283442254Masculine rhymeA rhyme ending on the final stressed syllable (regular old rhyme)72
4283442256MelodramaA form of cheesy theater in which the hero is very, very good, the villain mean and rotten, and the heroine oh-so-pure.73
4283442257MetaphorA comparison or analogy that states one thing IS another.74
4283442258SimileA comparison or analogy that typically uses like or as.75
4283442259MetonymyA word that is used to stand for something else that it has attributes of or is associated with.76
4283442260NemesisThe protagonist's arch enemy or supreme and persistent difficulty.77
4283442261ObjectivityTreatment of subject matter in an impersonal manner or from an outside view.78
4283442262SubjectivityA treatment of subject matter that uses the interior or personal view of a single observer and is typically colored with that observer's emotional responses.79
4283442263OnomatopoeiaWords that sound like what they mean80
4283442264OppositionA pairing of images whereby each becomes more striking and informative because it's placed in contrast to the other one.81
4283442265OxymoronA phrase composed of opposites; a contradiction.82
4283442266ParableA story that instructs.83
4283442267ParadoxA situation or statement that seems to contradict itself, but on closer inspection, does not.84
4283442268ParallelismRepeated syntactical similarities used for effect.85
4283442269ParaphraseTo restate phrases and sentences in your own words.86
4283442270Parenthetical phraseA phrase set off by commas that interrupts the flow of a sentence with some commentary or added detail.87
4283442271ParodyThe work that results when a specific work is exaggerated to ridiculousness.88
4283442272PastoralA poem set in tranquil nature or even more specifically, one about shepherds.89
4283442273PersonaThe narrator in a non first-person novel.90
4283442274PersonificationWhen an inanimate object takes on human shape.91
4283442275PlaintA poem or speech expressing sorrow.92
4283442276Point of ViewThe perspective from which the action of a novel is presented.93
4283442277OmniscientA third person narrator who sees into each character's mind and understands all the action going on.94
4283442278Limited OmniscientA Third person narrator who generally reports only what one character sees, and who only reports the thoughts of that one privileged character.95
4283442279ObjectiveA thrid person narrator who only reports on what would be visible to a camera. Does not know what the character is thinking unless the character speaks it.96
4283442280First personA narrator who is a character in the story and tells the tale from his or her point of view.97
4283442281Stream of ConsciousnessAuthor places the reader inside the main character's head and makes the reader privy to all of the character's thoughts as they scroll through her consciousness.98
4283442282PreludeAn introductory poem to a longer work of verse99
4283442283ProtagonistThe main character of a novel or play100
4283442284PunThe usually humorous use of a word in such a way to suggest two or more meanings101
4283442285RefrainA line or set of lines repeated several times over the course of a poem.102
4283442287RhapsodyAn intensely passionate verse or section of verse, usually of love or praise.103
4283442288Rhetorical questionA question that suggests an answer.104
4283442289SatireAttempts to improve things by pointing out people's mistakes in the hope that once exposed, such behavior will become less common.105
4283442290SoliloquyA speech spoken by a character alone on stage, meant to convey the impression that the audience is listening to the character's thoughts.106
4283442291StanzaA group of lines roughly analogous in function in verse to the paragraphs function in prose.107
4283442296Suspension of disbeliefThe demand made of a theater audience to accept the limitations of staging and supply the details with their imagination.108
4283442297SymbolismA device in literature where an object represents an idea.109
4283442298TechniqueThe methods and tools of the author.110
4283442299ThemeThe main idea of the overall work; the central idea.111
4283442300ThesisThe main position of an argument. The central contention that will be supported.112
4283442301Tragic flawIn a tragedy, this is the weakness of a character in an otherwise good (or even great) individual that ultimately leads to his demise.113
4283442302TravestyA grotesque parody114
4283442304Unreliable narratorWhen the first person narrator is crazy, a liar, very young, or for some reason not entirely credible115
4283442305UtopiaAn idealized place. Imaginary communities in which people are able to live in happiness, prosperity, and peace.116
4283442306ZeugmaThe use of a word to modify two or more words, but used for different meanings. He closed the door and his heart on his lost love.117
4283442307OdeA poem in praise of something divine or noble118
4283442308IambA poetic foot -- light, heavy119
4283442309TrocheeA poetic foot -- heavy, light120
4283442310SpondeeA poetic foot -- heavy, heavy121
4283442311PyrrhieA poetic foot -- light, light122
4283442312AnapestA poetic foot -- light, light, heavy123
4283442313AmbibranchA poetic foot -- light, heavy, light124
4283442314DactylA poetic foot -- heavy, light, light125
4283442315ImperfectA poetic foot -- single light or single heavy126
4283442316PentameterA poetic line with five feet.127
4283442317TetrameterA poetic line with four feet128
4283442318TrimeterA poetic line with three feet129
4283442319Blank Verseunrhymed iambic pentameter.130

AP Language Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
5053866567AllegoryA literary work that occurs on 2 levels: the literal and symbolic. Thus, actions, characters, settings, and objects have symbolic, abstract meaning.0
5053881605AnecdoteA brief narrative or a retelling of a story or event often based on the speakers own experience.1
5053890794DiatribeA bitter attack on something or someone. It differs from a polemic because it is completely against the subject of itself. A polemic is meant to create controversy.2
5053907072ElegyA thoughtful poem lamenting someone's death.3
5053909659EulogyA speech or writing in praise of a person or thing,especially in honor of a deceased person.4
5053921343Homily/SermonA religious speech meant to be spoken out loud and containing a moral or didactic lesson.5
5053926419NarrativeAny type of writing that is concerned with relating an event or a series of events.6
5053932374ParodyA literary work that imitates either style or the subject manner of an author for the purpose of ridicule, criticism, or tribute.7
5053947422PanegyricA statement of high praise.8
5053949080PolemicA passionate or strongly worded controversial argument against something or someone Meant to create controversy.9
5053955479SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something. When well done, it can be witty and insightful' when poorly done, it's simply cruel.10
5053994851SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.11
5054004518Horation SatireThis playfully criticizes some social vice through gentle, mild and light-hearted humor. It directs wit, exaggeration and self-depicting humor toward what it identifies as folly, rather than evil. It has a sympathetic tone is common in modern society.12
5054029815Juvenalian SatireThis addresses social evil through scorn, outrage and savage ridicule. This form is pessimistic characterized by irony, sarcasm, moral indignation and personal invective with less emphasis on humor.13
5054054807AbstractA word that signifies a general concept, an idea, or a condition that is intangible.14
5054060549ConcreteA word that signifies what is tangible,something we can know with one or more of our 5 senses. Clarity is #1 rule of effective communication.15
5054073309ConnotationThe implied or understood meaning of a word.16
5054074761DenotationThe literal or dictionary definition of a word.17
5054077438ColloquialismWords and phrases used in casual conversation and given new, informal meanings, often associated with particular regions in the country.18
5054088030JargonThe specialized language of a professional, occupational, or other group. Connotatively, it has come to mean pretentious, wordy and almost meaningless language.19
5054105987NeologismA recently invented phrase or word. They are sometimes used to make an author seem up to date or trendy.20
5054110453ArchaismAn old-fashioned word or expression that has passed out of usage. Modern authors use it to suggest an earlier time period or style.21
5054121936AnaphoraThe exact repetition of the first few words or phrases at the beginning of successive sentences or clauses.22
5054130232AntithesisThe contrast of ideas by means of the parallel arrangement of words, phrases or clauses.23
5054135714AphorismA concisely phrased statement of truth or opinion.24
5054138326AsndetonThe listing of words, phrases, or clauses without the use of a typically occurring conjunction.25
5064197548PolysyndetonThe use of a conjunction after each word, phrase, or clause in a list.26
5064202134AmbiguityThe purposeful creation of a statement with more than one possible meaning.27
5064209285CataloguingA fancy word for "listing"28
5064211664ChiasmusTwo or more clauses related to each other through a reversal of structures in order to make a larger point; the clauses display inverted parallelism.29
5064229128InversionA reversal of the usual order of words.30
5064231915JuxtapositionThe placement of two items, often contrasting next to each other.31
5064236543Inverted SentenceA sentence where the predicate comes before the subject.32
5064242984Loose SentenceA sentence in which the main idea(which is also the main clause of the sentence) comes first and is followed by subordinate clauses and phrases that provide support for the main idea.33
5064252084Periodic SentenceA long and frequently involved sentence in which the main idea appears at the end.34
5064257177ParallelismUsing the same pattern of words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence.35
5064263627Rhetorical QuestionA question to which no answer is expected.36
5064265841AlliterationThe repetition of a sound at the beginning of two or more words.37
5064272050AllusionAn indirect reference to a historical event, literary work, or religious book.38
5064277826AnachronismSomething or someone that isn't in its correct historical chronological time period.39

Positive Tone Words for AP Literature Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7682042778amiablehaving or displaying a friendly and pleasant manner0
7682044753elevatedlofty, exalted, can also mean high-spirited; OR having an intelligent and usually formal tone or quality1
7682050597sprightlylively, full of life; spicy, flavorful2
7682052702exuberanthigh-spirited, enthusiastic, unrestrained; excessive, abundant3
7682055453ecstaticextreme joy; to know the feeling of pure delight4
7682110827enrapturedto be delighted beyond measure; to be captivated by joy5
7682061407whimsicalSubject to odd ideas, notions, or fancies; playful; unpredictable6
7682064920graciouscourteous, kind, generous, and pleasant7
7682069136solicitousshowing concern or care; fearful or anxious about someone or something8
7682071541indulgentyielding to the wishes or demands of others9
7682073627ardentvery enthusiastic, impassioned10
7682077973exaltedplaced at a high or powerful level; held in high regard11
7682080997rapturouscharacterized by, feeling, or expressing great pleasure or enthusiasm12
7682088577earnestSerious and sincere, honest13
7682127341feverishgreatly excited14
7682104833serenecalm and peaceful15
7682093346impassionedfilled with passionate emotion16
7682096596amorousfeeling loving, especially in a sexual sense17
7682099246sensualrelating to the senses, gratifying the physical (often sexual) senses18

Terms- AP English Language and Composition Flashcards

Allegory The device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meaning. In some allegories, for example, an author may intend the characters to personify an abstraction like hope or freedom. The allegorical meaning usually deals with moral truth or a generalization about human existence.
Alliteration The repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells"). Although the term is not frequently in the multiple choice section, you can look for alliteration in any essay passage. The repetition can reinforce meaning, unify ideas, supply a musical sound, and/or echo the sense of the passage.
Allusion A direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art. Allusions can be historical, literary, religious, topical, or mythical. There are many more possibilities, and a work may simultaneously use multiple layers of allusion.
Ambiguity The multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.
Analogy A similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them. An analogy can explain something unfamiliar by associating it with or pointing out its similarity to something more familiar. Analogies can also make writing more vivid, imaginative, or intellectually engaging.
Antecedent The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun. The AP language exam occasionally asks for the antecedent of a given pronoun in a long, complex sentence or in a group of sentences.

Terms : Hide Images
4234175318AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells"). Although the term is not frequently in the multiple choice section, you can look for _____ in any essay passage. The repetition can reinforce meaning, unify ideas, supply a musical sound, and/or echo the sense of the passage.0
4234175319AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art. _____s can be historical, literary, religious, topical, or mythical. There are many more possibilities, and a work may simultaneously use multiple layers of _____.1
4234175320AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them. An _____ can explain something unfamiliar by associating it with or pointing out its similarity to something more familiar. _____s can also make writing more vivid, imaginative, or intellectually engaging.2
4234175321AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun. The AP language exam occasionally asks for the _____ of a given pronoun in a long, complex sentence or in a group of sentences. A question from the 2001 AP test as an example follows: "But it is the grandeur of all truth which can occupy a very high place in human interests that it is never absolutely novel to the meanest of minds; IT exists eternally, by way of germ of latent principle, in the lowest as in the highest, needing to be developed but never to be planted." The _____ of "IT" is...? (answer: all truth)3
4234175322AphorismA terse statement of known authorship which expresses a general truth or a moral principle. (If the authorship is unknown, the statement is generally considered to be a folk proverb.) An _____ can be a memorable summation of the author's point.4
4234175323AtmosphereThe emotional nod created by the entirety of a literary work, established partly by the setting and partly by the author's choice of objects that are described. Even such elements as a description of the weather can contribute to the _____. Frequently _____ foreshadows events. Perhaps it can create a mood.5
4234175324ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning. _____s may involve ideas, emotions or attitudes6
4234175325DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color. (Example: the _____ of knife- a utensil for cutting - Connotation - knife - such as knife in the back - anger fear violence betrayal)7
4234175326DictionRelated to style, _____ refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness. For the AP Exam you should be able to describe an author's _____ (for example, formal or informal) and understand how it compliments the author's purpose. _____, combined with syntax, figurative language, literary devices, etc., creates an author's style.8
4234175327DidacticFrom the Greek, _____ literally means "teaching." They have the primary aim of teaching or instructing,especially the teaching of moral or ethical principles.9
4234175328Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.10
4234175329Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid11
4234175330Figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. Could include apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, metaphor, oxymoron, paradox, personification, simile, synecdoche, understatement.12
4234175331ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. On a physical level, _____ uses terms related to the five senses: visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, and olfactory. On a broader, deeper level, however, one image can represent more than one thing. For example, a rose may present visual imagery while also representing the color in a woman's cheeks and/or symbolizing some degree of perfection. An author may use complex _____ while simultaneously employing other figures of speech, especially metaphor and simile. In addition, this term can apply to the total of all the images in a work. On the AP language exam, pay attention to how an author creates imagery and to the effect of this _____.13
4234175332Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language. (For example, in Henry IV, Part hill of flesh.")14
4234175333Irony/IronicThe contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is really meant, or the difference between what appears to be and what is actually true. _____ is often used to create poignancy or humor. In general, there are three major types of _____ used in language: (1) verbal _____ - when the words literally state the opposite of the writer's (or speaker's) meaning (2) situational _____ - when events turn out the opposite of what was expected; when what the characters and readers think ought to happen is not what does happen (3) dramatic _____ - when facts or events are unknown to a character in a play or piece of fiction but known to the reader, audience, or other characters in the work.15
4234175334LitotesA form of understatement that involves making an affirmative point by denying its opposite. _____ is the opposite of hyperbole. Examples: "Not a bad idea," "Not many," "It isn't very serious. I have this tiny little tumor on the brain" (Salinger, Catcher in the Rye).16
4234175335MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity. _____ical language makes writing more vivid, imaginative, thought provoking, and meaningful.17
4234175336MetonymyA term from the Greek meaning "changed label" or "substitute name," _____ is a figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it. For example, a news release that claims "the White House declared" rather than "the President declared" is using metonymy; Shakespeare uses it to signify the male and female sexes in As You Like It: "doublet and hose ought to show itself courageous to petticoat." The substituted term generally carries a more potent emotional impact.18
4234175337MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work. Setting, tone, and events can affect the _____. _____ is similar to tone and atmosphere.19
4234175338NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.20
4234175339OnomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words. Simple examples include such words as buzz, hiss, hum, crack, whinny, and murmur. If you note examples of onomatopoeia in an essay passage, note the effect.21
4234175340OxymoronFrom the Greek for "pointedly foolish," an _____ is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox. Simple examples include "jumbo shrimp" and "cruel kindness." This term does not usually appear in the multiple-choice questions, but there is a chance that you might find it in an essay. Take note of the effect that the author achieves with the use of _____.22
4234175341ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity. (Think of the beginning of Dickens' Tale of Two Cities: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times....")23
4234175342PersonificationA _____ __ ______ in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions. Personification is used to make these abstractions, animals, or objects appear more vivid to the reader.24
4234175343Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told. There are two general divisions of _____ __ _____, and many subdivisions within those. (1) first person narrator tells the story with the first person pronoun, "I," and is a character in the story. This narrator can be the protagonist, a secondary character, or an observing character. (2) third person narrator relates the events with the third person pronouns, "he," "she," and "it." There are two main subdivisions to be aware of: a. third person omniscient, in which the narrator, with godlike knowledge, presents the thoughts and actions of any or all characters b. third person limited omniscient, in which the narrator presents the feelings and thoughts of only one character, presenting only the actions of all the remaining characters. In addition, be aware that the term _____ __ _____ carries an additional meaning. When you are asked to analyze the author's _____ __ ____, the appropriate point for you to address is the author's attitude.25
4234175344SarcasmFrom the Greek meaning "to tear flesh," _____ involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something. It may use irony as a device, but not all ironic statements are _____stic (that is, intended to ridicule). When well done,_____can be witty and insightful; when poorly done, it is simply cruel.26
4234175345SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule. Regardless of whether or not the work aims to reform human behavior, _____ is best seen as a style of writing rather than a purpose for writing. It can be recognized by the many devices used effectively by the _____ist: irony, wit, parody, caricature, often humorous, is thought provoking and insightful about the human condition. Some modern satirists include Joseph Heller (Catch 22) and Kurt Vonnegut (Cat's Cradle, Player Piano).27
4234175346SyllogismFrom the Greek for "reckoning together," a _____ (or _____istic reasoning or _____istic logic) is a deductive system of formal logic that presents two premises (the first one called "major" and the second called "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion. A frequently cited example proceeds as follows: major premise: All men are mortal. minor premise: Socrates is a man. conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is a mortal. A _____'s conclusion is valid only if each of the two premises is valid. _____s may also present the specific idea first ("Socrates") and the general second ("all men").28
4234175347Symbol/SymbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else. Usually a _____is something concrete -- such as an object, action, character, or scene - that represents something more abstract. However, _____s (1) natural _____s are objects and occurrences from nature to _____lize ideas commonly associated with them (dawn _____lizing hope or a new beginning, a rose _____izing love, a tree _____lizing knowledge). (2) conventional _____s are those that have been invested with meaning by a group (religious _____s such as a cross or Star of David; national _____s, such as a flag or an eagle; or group _____s, such as a skull and crossbones for pirates or the scale of justice for lawyers). (3) literary _____s are sometimes also conventional in the sense that they are found in a variety of works and are more generally recognized. However, a work's _____s may be more complicated, as is the jungle in Heart of Darkness. On the AP exam, try to determine what abstraction an object is a _____ for and to what extent it is successful in representing that abstraction.29
4234175348SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences. _____ is similar to diction, but you can differentiate them by thinking of _____ as groups of words, while diction refers to the individual words. In the multiplechoice section of the AP exam, expect to be asked some questions about how an author manipulates _____. In the essay section, you will need to analyze how _____ produces effects.30
4234175349ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life. Usually _____ is unstated in fictional works, but in nonfiction, the _____ may be directly state, especially in expository or argumentative writing.31
4234175350ThesisIn expository writing, the _____ statement is the sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position. Expository writing is usually judged by analyzing how accurately, effectively,and thoroughly a writer has proven the thesis.32
4234175351ToneSimilar to mood, _____ describes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both. ____ is easier to determine in spoken language than in written language. Considering how a work would sound if it were read aloud can help in identifying an author's ____. Some words describing ____are playful, serious, businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, somber, etc.33
4234175352Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact, ___________ presents something as less significant than it is. The effect can frequently be humorous and emphatic. _____________ is the opposite of hyperbole. Example: Jonathan Swift's A Tale of a Tub: "Last week I saw a woman flayed, and you will hardly believe how much it altered her person for the worse."34
4234175353AntiheroA protagonist (main character) who is markedly unheroic: morally weak, cowardly, dishonest, or any number of other unsavory qualities.35
4234175354ArchetypeA detail, image, or character type that occurs frequently in literature and myth and is thought to appeal in a universal way to the unconscious and to evoke a response36
4234175355SimileA comparison using like or as37
4234175356AllegoryThe device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meanin. In some allegories, for example, an author may intend the characters to personify an abstraction like hope or freedom. The ________ meaning usually deals with the moral truth or a generalization about human existence.38
4234175357AntithesisThe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite39
4234175358ApostropheA figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction, such as liberty or love. It is an address to someone or something that cannot answer. The effect may add familiarity or emotional intensity. William Wordsworth addresses John Milton as he writes, "Milton, thou shouldst be living at this hour:/ England hath need of thee." Another example is Keats' "Ode to Grecian Urn," in which Keats addresses the urn itself: "Thou still unravished bride of quietness". Many apostrophes imply a personification of the object addressed.40
4234175359CaricatureA verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features and other characteristics.41
4234175360ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb. An independent, or main ______ expresses complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent, or subordinate ______, cannot stand alone as a sentence and must be accompanied by an independent _____. The point that you want to consider is the question or what or why the author subordinates one element should also become aware of making effective use of subordination in your own writing.42
4234175361Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing. Not generally acceptable for formal writing, ____________ give a work a conversational, familiar tones. __________ expressions in writing include local or regional dialects.43
4234175362ConceitA fanicful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects. A _______ displays intellectual cleverness as a result of an unusual comparison being made.44
4234175363EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech", ________s are a mor agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept. The _________ may be used to adhere to standards of social or political correctness or to add humor or iroinic understatement. Saying "earthly remains" rather than "corpse" is an example of __________.45
4234175364Generic ConventionsThis term describes traditions for each genre. These conventions help to define each genre; for example, they differentiate an essay and journalistic writing or an autobiography and a political writing. On the AP Language Exam, try to distinguish the unique features of a writer's work from those dictated by convention.46
4234175365GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama. However, _____ is a flexible term; within these broad boundaries exist many subdivisions that are often called _____s themselves. For example, prose can be divided into fiction (novels and short stories) or nonfiction (essays, biographies, autobiographies, etc.). Poetry can be divided into lyric, dramatic, narrative, epic, etc. Drama can be divided into tragedy, comedy melodrama, farce, etc. On the AP Language exam, expect the majority of the passages to be from the following _____s: autobiography, biography, diaries, criticism, essays, and journalistic, political, scientific, and nature writing. There may be fiction or poetry.47
4234175366HomilyThis term literally means "sermon", but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.48
4234175367HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.") _________s often have a comic effect; however, a serious effect is also possible. Often, _________ produces irony. The opposite of _________ is understatement.49
4234175368Inference/InferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented. When a multiple choice asks for an _________ to be drawn from a passage, the most direct, most reasonable _________ is the safest answer choice. If an __________ is implausible, it is unlikely to be the correct answeer. Note that if the answer choice is directly stated, it is not ______ed and it is wrong. You must be careful to note the connotation-negative or positive- of the choices.50
4234175369Loose Sentence/Non-Periodic SentenceA type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by dependent grammatical units such as phrases and clauses. If a period were placed at the end of the independent clause, the clause would be a complete sentence. A work containing many _____ ________s often seems informal, relaxed, or conversational. Generally, _____ ________s create loose style. The opposite of a _____ ________ is the periodic sentence. Example: I arrived at the San Diego airport after a long, bumpy ride and multiple delays. Could stop at: I arrived at the San Diego airport.51
4234175370ParallelismAlso referred to as parallel construction or parallel structure, this terms comes from Greek roots meaning "beside one another". It refers to the grammatical or rhetorical framing of words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs to give structural similarity. This can involve, but is not limited to, repetition of a grammatical element such as preposition or verbal phrase. (Again, the opening of Dickens' Tale of Two Cities is an example: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of believe, it was the epoch of incredulity...") The effects of ___________ are numerous, but frequently they act as an organizing force to attract the reader's attention, add emphasis and organization, or simply provide a musical rhythym.52
4234175371AnaphoraA sub-type of parallelism, when the exact repetition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive lines or sentences. MLK used anaphora in his famous "I Have a Dream" speech (1963).53
4234175372ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule. It exploits peculiarities of an author's expression (propensity to use too many parentheses, certain favorite words, etc.) Well-written ______ offers enlightenment about the original, but poorly written parody offers only ineffectual imitation. Usually an audience must grasp literary allusion and understand the work being ______ed in order to fully appreciate the nuances of the newer work. Occassionally, however, ______es take on a life of their own and don't require knowledge of the original.54
4234175373PedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, bookish (language that might be described as "show-offy"; using big words for the sake of big words).55
4234175374Periodic SentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end. This independent clause is preceded by a phrase of clause that cannot stand alone. The effect of the ________ ________ is to add emphasis and structural variety. It is also a much stronger sentence than the loose sentence. (Example: After a long, bumpy flight and multiple delays, I arrived at the San Diego airport.)56
4234175375ProseOne of the major divisions of genre, _____ refers to fiction and nonfiction, including all its forms. In _____ the printer determines the length of the line; in poetry, the poet determines the length of the line.57
4234175376RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.58
4234175377RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator", this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.59
4234175378Rhetorical ModesThis flexible term describes the variety, the conventions, and the purposes of major kinds of writing. The four most common _________ _____ (often referred to as the modes of discourse) are as follows: 1) The purpose of 'exposition' (or expository writing) is to explain and analyze information by presenting an idea, relevant evidence, and appropriate discussion. The AP Language exam essay questions are frequently expository topics. 2) The purpose of 'argumentation' is to prove the validity of an idea, or point of view, by presenting sound reasoning, discussion, and argument that thoroughly convince the reader. Persuasive writing is a type of argumentation having an additional aim of urging some form of action. 3) The purpose of 'description' is to recreate, invent, or visually present a person, place, event, or action so that the reader can picture that being described. Sometimes an author engages all five senses in a description; good descriptive writing can be sensuous and picturesque. Descriptive imaging may be straightforward and objective, or highly emotional and subjective. 4) The purpose of 'narration' is to tell a story or narrate an event or series of events. This writing mod frequently uses the tools of descriptive writing.60
4234175379SemanticsThe branch of linguistics that studies the meanings of words, their historical and psychological development, their connotations, and their relation to one another.61
4234175380StyleThe consideration of _____ has two purposes: 1) An evaluation of the sum of the choices an author makes in blending diction, syntax, figurative language, and other literary devices. Some authors' _____s are so idiosyncratic that we can quickly recognize works by the same author. we can analyze and describe an author's personal _____ and make judgments on how appropriate it is to the author's purpose. _____s can be called flowery, explicit, succinct, rambling, bombastic, commonplace, incisive, laconic, etc. 2) Classification of authors to a group and comparison of an author to similar authors. By means of such classification and comparison, we can see how an author's _____ reflects and helps to define a historical period, such as the Renaissance or the Victorian period, or a literary movement, such as the romantic, transcendental, or realist movement.62
4234175381Subject ComplementThe word (with any accompanying phrases) or clause that follows a linking verb and complements, or completes the subject of the sentence by either (1) renaming it(the predicative nominative) or (2) describing it (the predicate adjective). These are defined below: 1) The predicate nominative- a noun, group of nouns, or noun clause that renames the subject. It, like the predicate adjective, follows a linking verb and is located in the predicate of the sentence. Example: Julia Roberts is a movie star. movie star= predicate nominative, as it renames the subject, Julia Roberts 2) The predicate adjective- an adjective, a group of adjectives, or adjective clause that follows a linking verb. It is in the predicate of the sentence, and modifies, or describes, the subject. Example: Warren remained optimistic. optimistic= predicate adjective, as it modifies the subject, Warren63
4234175382Subordinate ClauseLike all clauses, this word group contains both a subjec and a verb (plus any accompanying phrases or modifiers), but unlike independent clauses, the ___________ ______ cannot stand alone; it does not express a complete thought. The ___________ ______ depends on a main clause (or independent clause) to complete its meaning. Easily recognized key words and phrases usually begin these clauses. For example: although, because, unless, if, even though, since, as soon as, while, who, when, where, how, and that. Example: Yellowstone is a national park in the West 'that is known for its geysers'. Parenthesed phrase= ___________ ______64
4234175383SynechdocheA figure of speech in which a part of something us used to represent the whorle, or occassionally, the whole is used to represent a part. Examples: To refer to a boat as a "sail"; to refer to a car as "wheels"; to referr to the violins, violas, etc. in an orchestra as "the strings". **Different tan metynomy, in whcih one thing is represented by another thing that is commonly physically associated withi it (but is not necessarily part of it), i.e., regerring to a monarch as "the crown" or the President as "The White House".65
4234175384SynesthesiaWhen one kind of sensory stimulus the subjective experience of another. Ex: The sight of the red ants makes you itchy. In literature, __________ refers to the practice of associating two or more different senses in te same image. Red Hot Chili Pepper's song title,"Taste the Pain" is an example.66
4234175385TransitionA word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and argumentative writing, __________s effectively signal a shift from one idea to another. a few commonly used __________al words or phrases are furthermore, consequently, nevertheless, for example, in addition, likewise, similarly, on the contrary,etc. More sophisitcated writers use more subtle means of __________.67
4234175386WitIn modern usage, intllectually amusing language that surprises and delights. A ___ty statement is humorous, while suggesting the speakers verbal power in creating ingenious and perceptive remarks. ___ usually uses terse language that makes a pointed statement. Historically, ___ originally meant basic understanding. Its meaning evolved to include speed of understanding, and finally, it grew to mean quick perception including creating fancy and a quick tongue to articulate an answer that demanded the same quick perception.68
4234175387RHETORICAL STRATEGIESAny tools used by the author to make his/her point more convincing. Rhetorical strategies help the author to make his claim (Logos) more convincing by appealing to Pathos and Ethos.69
4234175388Assertion/claim (noun)/ assert (verb)Assertions are opinions stated as facts—the basis of all arguments. Assertions are always arguable. Another word for an assertion that controls an argument is claim."America has long had a love affair with violence and guns"(x). Canada begins his book by claiming, or asserting that an important part of America's experience has been their love of violence and guns.70
4234175389Qualification (noun)to modify, restrict or limit. A qualification of an assertion or claim means that you agree in part, or you wish to redefine or reshape the assertion. If you were asked your opinion of Canada's assertion, or claim, you might agree that guns have held an important place in the defense of America, but that "love affair" is too strong a term to describe Americans' feelings for guns. So you would express your opinion as a qualification of Canada's argument: while it is true that guns have played an important part in American history, the reason is not Americans' love for guns but rather their desire for safety and security.71
4234175390Speaker's Stancea "stance" is a position, where you stand on an issue. You might, for example, disagree with Bush's stance on Iraq and believe instead that we should withdraw our troops. That belief, then, would be your stance.72
4234175391Rebuttal/Refutation(nouns) rebut/refute (verbs)an opposing argument; a contradiction. To prove an argument wrong.73
4234175392Recapitulateto repeat briefly; to summarize. Often when you write an argument essay or give a speech, you recapitulate, or sum up your points, in your conclusion. After describing his experience as a teacher with some difficult students (Ch. 4), Canada recapitulates by comparing these students to those he had grown up with in the Bronx and restating his claim that "Violence is a learned response"(28).74
4234175393Appeals to authorityusing the endorsement , approval or voice of an authority to make an argument seem more convincing. When students voice their opinions in a synthesis essay, they often quote from authority figures to support their opinions.75
4234175394Anecdotethe retelling of a brief incident that may illustrate or prove a point made in an argument.76
4234175395Juxtapositiona device by which a writer or speaker juxtaposes, or places two items side by side. This is done to create an ironic contrast or effect. A famous photograph from the Depression shows a long line of men waiting for bread who are standing in front of a billboard that says, "America, Land of Opportunity." The picture of men who are out of work and must rely on food hand-outs is juxtaposed with the message that America provides opportunities for all.77
4234175396Litotes (understatement)deliberately representing something as less than it is in order to create a particular effect. Canada relates an incident which begins with the claiming of a basketball and escalates into the confrontation of a man with a gun. He watches as the older boys reach for their knives and face down an opponent who has a much more powerful weapon. Later, when Geoffrey wants to talk about this incident, Mike and Junior deliberately understate the severity of what happened: '"He was an *******. Forget it."'(42). Their use of litotes or understatement is meant to teach an important lesson: you must keep your emotions under control in order to survive on the streets78
4234175397Doublespeaklanguage used to distort and manipulate rather than to communicate. "Not doing so well" instead of very sick or injured79
4234175398EllipsisThe omission of a word or words necessary for complete construction but understood in the context. "The eyes of others our prisons; their thoughts our cages."80
4234175399EthnocentricThe belief in the inherent superiority of one's own group and culture.81
4234175400Euphemismthe substitution of an inoffensive, indirect, or agreeable expression for a word or phrase perceived as socially unacceptable or unnecessarily harsh. "overweight" rather than "fat," "disadvantaged" rather than "poor"82
4234175401Jargonrefers to a specialized language providing a shorthand method of quick communication between people in the same field. The basis of assessment for Schedule D Case I and II, other than commencement and cessation, is what is termed a previous year basis. (legal jargon)83
4234175402Lending CredenceIn arguing her point, a writer or speaker should always give the opponent some credit for his / her ideas.84
4234175403Logical Fallaciesmethods of pseudo-reasoning that may occur accidentally or may be intentionally contrived to lend plausibility to an unsound argument.85
4234175404Shift or Turna change or movement in a piece resulting from an epiphany, realization, or insight gained by the speaker, a character, or the reader86
4234175405Spintwist and turn so as to give an intended interpretation"The President's spokesmen had to spin the story to make it less embarrassing"87
4234175406Parallel syntactic structuresusing the same part of speech or syntactic structure in (1) each element of a series, (2) before and after coordinating conjunctions (and, but, yet, or, for, nor), and (3) after each of a pair of correlative conjunctions (not only...but also, neither...nor, both...and, etc.). Below are examples for definitions (1) and (3):Over the hill, through the woods, and to grandmother's house we go. (3) That vegetable is both rich in vitamins and low in calories.88
4234175407Antithesisthe contrast of opposites within parallel clauses or phrases. Canada uses antithesis to point out the contrast between his innocent belief that the police would help him and his growing awareness that they didn't care about people in his neighborhood: "It was nothing they did, it was what they didn't do"(14).89

AP Literature and Comp Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7316148077AllegoryA prose or poetic narrative in which characters, behaviors, and even the setting demonstrates multiple levels of meaning and significance. Often allegory is a universal symbol or personified abstraction such as Death portrayed as a black-cloaked "grim-reaper" with a scythe and ab hourglass.0
7316177262AlliterationThe sequential repetition of a similar initial sound, usually applied to consonants, usually heard in closely proximate stressed syllables. "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."1
7316201828AllusionA reference to a literary or historical event, person, or place.2
7316220056AnapesticA metrical foot in poetry that consists of two unstressed syllables followed by one stressed. "Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house/ Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse."3
7316235480AnaphoraThe regular repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive phrases or clauses. The...../The..../The...4
7316245636AnecdoteA brief story or tale told by a character in a piece of literature.5
7316254125AntagonistAny force that is in opposition to the main character, or protagonist.6
7316276788AntithesisThe juxtaposition of sharply contrasting ideas in balanced or parallel words, phrases, grammatical structure, or ideas.7
7316287711ApostropheAn address of invocation to something that is inanimate-such as an angry lover who might scream at the ocean in his or her despair.8
7316752704ArchetypeRecurrent designs, patterns of action, character types, themes, or images which are identifiable in a wide range of literature.9
7316768239AssonanceA repetition of identical or similar vowel sounds, usually those found in stressed syllables of close proximity.10
7316789095AsyndetonA style in which conjunctions are omitted, usually producing a fast-paced, more rapid prose.11
7316804902AttitudeThe sense expressed by the tone of voice and/or the mood of a piece of writing; the feelings the author holds towards his subject, the people in his narrative, the events, the setting, or even the theme.12
7316822009BalladA narrative poem that is, or originally was meant to be sung. Repetition and refrain (recurring phrase or phrases) characterize the ballad.13
7316828820Ballad stanzaA common stanza form, consisting of a quatrain (a stanza of four lines) that alternate four-beat and three-beat lines.14
7316854214Blank verseThe verse form that most resembles common speech, blank verse consists of unrhymed lines in iambic pentameter.15
7316868032CaesuraA pause in a line of verse, indicated by natural speech patterns rather than due to specific metrical patterns.16
7316877694CaricatureA depiction in which a character's characteristics or features are so deliberately exaggerated as to render them absurd. Political cartoons use visual caricature.17
7316889936ChiasmusA figure of speech by which the order of the terns in the first of the two parallel clauses is reversed in the second. "Pleasure's a sin, and sometimes a sin's a pleasure."18
7316909630ColloquialOrdinary language, the vernacular. For example, depending where you live in the United States, a large sandwich may be a hero, a sub, or a hoagie.19
7316923122ConceitA comparison of two unlikely things that is drawn out within a piece of literature, in particular an extended metaphor within a poem. Conceits might be the idea of tracing a love affair as a flower growing, budding, coming to fruition and dying.20
7316943528ConnotationWhat is suggested by a word, apart from what it explicitly describes, often referred to as the implied meaning of a word.21
7316956020ConsonanceThe repetition of a sequence of two or more consonants, but with a change in the intervening vowels, such as "pitter-patter, pish-posh, clinging-clanging."22
7316967771CoupletTwo rhyming lines of iambic pentameter that together present a single idea or connection.23
7316977072DactylicA metrical foot in poetry that consists of two stressed syllables followed by one unstressed syllable.24
7316984728DenotationA direct and specific meaning, often referred to as the dictionary meaning of a word.25
7316990240DialectThe language and speech idiosyncrasies of a specific area, region, or group of people.26
7316997779DictionThe specific word choice an author uses to persuade or convey tone, purpose, or effect.27
7317005903Dramatic monologueA monologue set in a specific situation and spoken to an imaginary audience. Another term is soliloquy.28
7317011685ElegyA poetic lament upon death of a particular person, usually ending in consolation.29
7317017856EnjambmentThe continuation of a sentence from one line or couplet of a poem to the next.30
7317028628EpicA poem that celebrates, in a continuous narrative, the achievements of mighty heroes and heroines, often concerned with the founding of a nation or developing of a culture; it uses elevated language and grand, high style.31
7317043538ExpositionThat part of the structure that sets the scene, introduces and identifies characters, and establishes the situation at the beginning of a story or play.32
7317057979Extended metaphorA detailed and complex metaphor that extends over a long section of a work, also known as a conceit.33
7317064241FableA legend or short moral story often using animals as characters.34
7317073157Falling actionThe part of the plot structure in which the complications of the rising action are untangles.35
7317077878FarceA play or scene in a play or book that is characterized by the broad humor, wild antics, and often slapstick and physical humor.36
7317088852ForeshadowingTo hint at or present an indication of the future beforehand.37
7317095333Formal dictionLanguage that is lofty, dignified, and impersonal. Such diction is often used in narrative epic poetry.38
7317101999FlashbackRetrospection, where an earlier event is inserted into the normal chronology of the narrative.39
7317117915Free versePoetry tat is characterized by varying line lengths, lack of traditional meter, and nonrhyming lines,40
7317128132GenreA type or class of literature such as an epic or narrative or poetry or belles letters.41
7317136582HyperboleOverstatement characterized by exaggerated language.42
7317143256IambicA metrical foot in poetry that consists of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.43
7317151304ImageryBroadly defined, any sensory detail or evocation in a work; more narrowly, the use of figurative language to evoke a feeling, to call to mind an idea, or to describe an object. Basically, imagery involves any or all of the five senses.44
7317169941Informal dictionLanguage that is not as lofty or impersonal as a formal diction; similar to everyday speech.45
7317182760In medias res"in the midst of things"; refers to opening a story in the middle of the action, necessitating filling in past details by exposition or flashback.46
7317195141IronyA situation or statement characterized by significant difference between what is expected or understood and what actually happens or is meant. Irony is often humorous, and sometimes sarcastic when it uses words to imply the opposite of what they normally mean.47
7317212728JargonSpecialized or technical language of a trade, profession, or similar group.48
7317222074JuxtapositionThe location of one thing as being adjacent or juxtaposed with another. This placing of two items side by side creates a certain effect, reveals an attitude, or accomplishments some purpose of the writer.49
7317236698Limited point of viewA perspective confined to a single character, whether a first person or third person; the reader cannot know for sure what is going on in the minds of other characters.50
7317247919LitoteA figure of speech that emphasizes its subject by conscious understatement.51
7317260063Loose sentenceA sentence grammatically complete, and usually stating its main idea, before the end. "The child ran as if being chased by demons."52
7317270582LyricOriginally designated poems meant to be sung accompaniment of a lyre; now any short poem in which the speaker expresses intense personal emotion rather than describing a narrative or dramatic situation.53
7317280954MessageA misleading term for theme; the central idea or statement of a story, or area of inquiry or explanation; misleading because it suggests a simple, packaged statement that pre-exists and for the simple communication of which the story is written.54
7317310417MetaphorOne thing pictured as if it were something else, suggesting a likeness or analogy between them.55
7317321775MeterThe more or less regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry.56
7317329958MetonymyA figure of speech in which an attribute or commonly associated feature is used to name or designate something.57
7317402168MoodA feeling or ambiance resulting from the tone of a piece as well as the writer/narrator's attitude and point of view. This effect is fabricated through descriptions of feelings or objects that establish a sense of fear, patriotism, sanctity, hope, etc.58
7317419900MotifA recurring device, formula, or situation that often serves as a signal for the appearance of a character or event.59
7317440722Narrative structureA textual organization based on the sequences of connected events, usually presented in a straightforward, chronological framework.60
7317452708NarratorThe "character" who "tells" the story, or in poetry, the persona.61
7317456735Occasional poemA poem written about or for a specific occasion, public or private.62
7317463753OdeA lyrical poem that is somewhat serious in a subject and treatment, is elevated in style, and sometimes uses elaborate stanza structure, which is often patterned in sets of three.63
7317473777Omniscient point of viewAlso called unlimited focus: a perspective that can be seen from one character's view, then another's, then another's or can be moved in or out of the mind of any character at any time.The reader has access to the perceptions and thoughts of all the characters in the story.64
7317487751OnomatopoeiaA word capturing or approximating the sound of what it describes; "buzz" is a good example.65
7317495575OverstatementExaggerated language; also called hyperbole.66
7317498607OxymoronA figure of speech that combines two apparently contradictory elements, sometimes resulting in humorous image or statement; "jumbo shrimp."67
7317506474ParableA short fiction that illustrates an explicit moral lesson through the use of analogy.68
7317511734ParadoxA statement that seems contradictory but may be true. "Fight for peace."69
7317518552Parallel structureThe use of similar forms in writing for nouns, verbs, phrases, or thoughts.70
7317522233ParodyA work that imitates another work for comedic effect by exaggerating the style and changing the content of the original.71
7317528628PastoralA work (also called an ecologue, a bucolic or an idyll) that describes the simple life of country folk, usually shepherds who live a timeless, painless (and sheepless) life in a world full of beauty, music, and love.72
7317548342Periodic sentenceA sentence which is not grammatically complete until the end. "The child, who looked as if she were being chased by demons, ran."73
7317554964PersonaThe voice or figure of the author who tells and structures the story and who may or may not share the values or the actual author.74
7317561594PersonificationTreating an abstraction or nonhuman object as if it were a person by endowing it with human qualities.75
7317569870Petrarchan sonnetAlso called Italian sonnet; a sonnet form that divides the poem into one section of eight lines (octave) and a second section into six lines (sestet), usually following the abba abba cde cde rhyme scheme though the sestet's rhyme varies.76
7317584208PlotThe arrangement of the narration based on the cause-effect relationship of the events.77
7317592767ProtagonistThe main character in a work, who may or may not be heroic.78
7317596546QuatrainA poetic stanza of four lines.79
7317600463RealismThe practice in the literature of attempting to describe nature and life without idealization and with attention to detail.80
7317605686RefrainA repeated stanza or line(s) in a poem or song.81
7317609557Rising actionThe development of action in a work, usually at the beginning. First part of the plot.82
7317615224Rhetorical questionA question that is asked simply for stylistic effect and is not expected to be answered.83
7317630190RhymeThe repetition of the same or similar sounds, most often at the ends of lines.84
7317635456RhythmThe modulation of weak and strong (stressed and unstressed) elements in the flow of speech.85
7317642614SarcasmA form of verbal irony in which apparent praise is actually harshly or bitterly critical.86
7317649535SatireA literary work that holds up human failings to ridicule and censure.87
7317656346ScansionThe analysis of verse to show it meter.88
7317662306SettingThe time and place of the action in a story, poem, or play.89
7317669539Shakespearean sonnetAlso called an English sonnet: a sonnet that divides the poem into three units of four lines and each a final unit of two lines, usually abab cdcd efef gg.90
7317677082Shaped verseAnother name for concrete poetry: poetry that is shaped to look like an object.91
7317681811SimileA direct, explicit comparison of one thing to another, usually using the words like or as to draw a connection.92
7317687075SoliloquyA monologue in which the character in a play is alone and speaking only to himself or herself.93
7317692996SpeakerThe person, not necessarily the author, who is the voice of a poem.94
7317697455StanzaA section of a poem demarcated by extra line spacing. Some distinguish a stanza, a division marked by a single pattern or meter or rhyme, from a verse paragraph, a division marked by thought rather than patter, not unlike a paragraph in prose writing.95
7317712647Stanza linesCouplet: two lines, Tercet: three lines, Quatrain: four lines, Cinquain: five lines, Sestet: six lines, Heptatich: seven lines, Octave: eight lines.96
7317725156StereotypeA characterization based on conscious or unconscious assumptions that some one aspect, such as gender, age, ethnic, or nationality, religion, occupation, relationship status etc. are predictably accompanied by certain character traits, actions, even values.97
7317749935Stock characterOne who appears in a number of stories or plays such as the cruel stepmother.98
7317757384StructureThe organization or arrangement of the various elements in a work.99
7317761337StyleA distinctive manner of expression; each author's style is expressed through his or her diction, rhythm, imagery, and so on. It's a writer's typical way or writing.100
7317816991SymbolismA person, place, thing, event, or pattern in a literary work that designates itself and at the same time figuratively represents something else.101
7317824643SynecdocheWhen part is used to signify a whole, "all hands on deck!" 'Hands' stand for the whole of the sailors.102
7317896261SyntaxThe way words are put together to form phrases, clauses and sentences. Syntax is sentence structure and how influences the way the reader receives a particular piece of writing.103
7317904944Terza rimaA verse form consisting of three-stanzas in which the second line of each rhymes with the first and third of the next.104
7317911964ThemeA generalized, abstract paraphrase of the inferred central or dominant idea or concern of a work; the statement a poem makes about its subject.105
7317919132ToneThe attitude a literary work takes toward its subject and theme; the tenor of a piece of writing based on the particular stylistic devices employed by the writer. The tone reflects the narrator's attitude.106
7317931216TragedyA drama in which a character (usually good and noble and of high rank) is brought to a disastrous end in his or her confrontation with the superior force.107
7317941867TrochaicA metrical foot in poetry that is the opposite of iambic. The first syllable is stressed, the second is not.108
7317947265Turning pointThe third part of plot structure, the point at which the action stops rising the begins falling or reversing. Sometimes referred to as the climax of the story.109
7317956538VillanelleA verse form consisting of nineteen line divided into six stanzas - five tercets and one quatrain. The first and third line of the first tercet rhyme, and this rhyme is repeated through each of the four tercets and in the last two lines of the concluding quatrain.110
7317971635VoiceThe acknowledged or unacknowledged source of the words of the story; the speaker; the "person" telling the story or poem.111

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