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4774353573actingthe last of the four steps of characterization in a performed play.0
4774353574actionan imagined event or series of events; an event may be verbal as well as physical, so that saying something or telling a story within the story may be an event.1
4774353575allegoryas in metaphor, one thing (usually non rational, abstract, religious) is implicitly spoken of in terms of something concrete, but in an allegory the comparison is extended to include an entire work or large portion of a work.2
4774353576alliterationthe repetition of initial consonant sounds through a sequence of words— for example, "While I nodded, nearly napping" in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven."3
4774353577allusiona reference—whether explicit or implicit, to history, the Bible, myth, literature, painting, music, and so on —that suggests the meaning or generalized implication of details in the story, poem, or play.4
4774353578ambiguitythe use of a word or expression to mean more than one thing.5
4774353579amphitheaterthe design of classical Greek theaters, consisting of a stage area surrounded by a semicircle of tiered seats.6
4774353580analogya comparison based on certain resemblances between things that are otherwise unlike.7
4774353581anapestica metrical form in which each foot consists of two unstressed syllables followed by a stressed one.8
4774353582antagonista neutral term for a character who opposes the leading male or female character. See hero/heroine and protagonist.9
4774353583antiheroa leading character who is not, like a hero, perfect or even outstanding, but is rather ordinary and representative of the more or less average person.10
4774353584archetypea plot or character element that recurs in cultural or cross-cultural myths, such as "the quest" or "descent into the underworld" or "scapegoat."11
4774353585arena stagea stage design in which the audience is seated all the way around the acting area; actors make their entrances and exits through the auditorium.12
4774353586assonancethe repetition of vowel sounds in a sequence of words with different endings— for example, "The death of the poet was kept from his poems" in W. H. Auden's "In Memory of W. B. Yeats."13
4774353587aubadea morning song in which the coming of dawn is either celebrated or denounced as a nuisance.14
4774353588auditorsomeone other than the reader—a character within the fiction—to whom the story or "speech" is addressed.15
4774353589authorial timedistinct from plot time and reader time, authorial time denotes the influence that the time in which the author was writing had upon the conception and style of the text.16
4774353590ballada narrative poem that is, or originally was, meant to be sung. Characterized by repetition and often by a repeated refrain (recurrent phrase or series of phrases), ballads were originally a folk creation, transmitted orally from person to person and age to age.17
4774353591ballad stanzaa common stanza form, consisting of a quatrain that alternates four-beat and three-beat lines; lines 1 and 3 are unrhymed iambic tetrameter (four beats), and lines 2 and 4 are rhymed iambic trimeter (three beats).18
4774353592blank versethe verse form most like everyday human speech; blank verse consists of unrhymed lines in iambic pentameter. Many of Shakespeare's plays are in blank verse.19
4774353593caesuraa short pause within a line of poetry; often but not always signaled by punctuation.20
4774353594canonwhen applied to an individual author, canon (like oeuvre) means the sum total of works written by that author.21
4774353595castingthe third step in the creation of a character on the stage; deciding which actors are to play which parts.22
4774353596centered (central) consciousnessa limited third-person point of view, one tied to a single character throughout the story;23
4774353597character(1) a fictional personage who acts, appears, or is referred to in a work; (2) a combination of a person's qualities, especially moral qualities, so that such terms as "good" and "bad," "strong" and "weak," often apply.24
4774353598characterizationthe fictional or artistic presentation of a fictional personage.25
4774353599chorusin classical Greek plays, a group of actors who commented on and described the action of a play.26
4774353600classical unitiesas derived from Aristotle's Poetics, the principles of structure that require a play to have one action that occurs in one place and within one day.27
4774353601climaxalso called the turning point, the third part of plot structure, the point at which the action stops rising and begins falling or reversing.28
4774353602colloquial dictiona level of language in a work that approximates the speech of ordinary people.29
4774353603comedya broad category of dramatic works that are intended primarily to entertain and amuse an audience. Comedies take many different forms, but they share three basic characteristics: (1) the values that are expressed and that typically present the conflict within the play are social and determined by the general opinion of society (as opposed to being universal and beyond the control of humankind, as in tragedy); (2) characters in comedies are often defined primarily in terms of their society and their role within it; (3) comedies often end with a restoration of social order in which one or more characters take a proper social role.30
4774353604conceptionthe first step in the creation of any work of art, but especially used to indicate the first step in the creation of a dramatic character, whether for written text or performed play; the original idea, when the playwright first begins to construct (or even dream about) a plot, the characters, the structure, or a theme.31
4774353605conclusionthe fifth part of plot structure, the point at which the situation that was destabilized at the beginning of the story becomes stable once more.32
4774353606concrete poetrypoetry shaped to look like an object. Robert Herrick's "Pillar of Fame," for example, is arranged to look like a pillar. Also called shaped verse.33
4774353607confessional poema relatively recent (or recently defined) kind in which the speaker describes a state of mind, which becomes a metaphor for the larger world.34
4774353608conflicta struggle between opposing forces, such as between two people, between a person and something in nature or society, or even between two drives, impulses, or parts of the self.35
4774353609connotationwhat is suggested by a word, apart from what it explicitly describes.36
4774353610controlling metaphorsmetaphors that dominate or organize an entire poem. In Linda Pastan's "Marks," for example, the controlling metaphor is of marks (grades) as a way of talking about the speaker's performance of roles within her family.37
4774353611conventionsstandard or traditional ways of saying things in literary works, employed to achieve certain expected effects.38
4774353612cosmic ironya type of irony that arises out of the difference between what a character aspires to and what socalled universal forces deal him or her; such irony implies that a god or fate controls and toys with human actions, feelings, lives, outcomes.39
4774353613criticismthe evaluative or interpretive work written by professional interpreters of texts.40
4774353614culturea broad and relatively indistinct term that implies a commonality of history and some cohesiveness of purpose within a group. One can speak of southern culture, for example, or urban culture, or American culture, or rock culture; at any one time, each of us belongs to a number of these cultures.41
4774353615curiositythe desire to know what is happening or has happened.42
4774353616dactylicthe metrical pattern in which each foot consists of a stressed syllable followed by two unstressed ones.43
4774353617denotationa direct and specific meaning.44
4774353618descriptive structurea textual organization determined by the requirements of describing someone or something.45
4774353619dramatic ironya plot device in which a character holds a position or has an expectation that is reversed or fulfilled in a way that the character did not expect but that we, as readers or as audience members, have anticipated because our knowledge of events or individuals is more complete than the char-acter's.46
4774353620dramatic monologuea monologue set in a specific situation and spoken to an imaginary audience.47
4774353621dramatic structurea textual organization based on a series of scenes, each of which is presented vividly and in detail.48
4774353622discriminated occasionthe first specific event in a story, usually in the form of a specific scene.49
4774353623discursive structurea textual organization based on the form of a treatise, argument, or essay.50
4774353624dramatic ironya plot device in which a character holds a position or has an expectation that is reversed or fulfilled in a way that the character did not expect but that we, as readers or as audience members, have anticipated because our knowledge of events or individuals is more complete than the char-acter's.51
4774353625dramatic monologuea monologue set in a specific situation and spoken to an imaginary audience52
4774353626dramatic structurea textual organization based on a series of scenes, each of which is presented vividly and in detail53
4774353627dramatis personaethe list of characters that appears either in the play's program or at the top of the first page of the written play.54
4774353628echoa verbal reference that recalls a word, phrase, or sound in another text.55
4774353629elegyin classical times, any poem on any subject written in "elegiac" meter; since the Renaissance, usually a formal lament on the death of a particular person.56
4774353630English sonnetsee Shakespearean sonnet.57
4774353631enjambmentrunning over from one line of poetry to the next without stop, as in the following lines by Wordsworth: "My heart leaps up when I behold / A rainbow in the sky."58
4774353632epica poem that celebrates, in a continuous narrative, the achievements of mighty heroes and heroines, usually in founding a nation or developing a culture, and uses elevated language and a grand, high style.59
4774353633epigramoriginally any poem carved in stone (on tombstones, buildings, gates, and so forth), but in modern usage a very short, usually witty verse with a quick turn at the end.60
4774353634expectationthe anticipation of what is to happen next (see curiosity and suspense), what a character is like or how he or she will develop, what the theme or meaning of the story will prove to be, and so on.61
4774353635expositionthat part of the structure that sets the scene, introduces and identifies characters, and establishes the situation at the beginning of a story or play. Additional exposition is often scattered throughout the work.62
4774353636extended metaphora detailed and complex metaphor that stretches through a long section of a work63
4774353637falling actionthe fourth part of plot structure, in which the complications of the rising action are untangled.64
4774353638farcea play characterized by broad humor, wild antics, and often slapstick, pratfalls, or other physical humor.65
4774353639figurativeusually applied to language that uses figures of speech. Figurative language heightens meaning by implicitly or explicitly representing something in terms of some other thing, the assumption being that the "other thing" will be more familiar to the reader66
4774353640figures of speechcomparisons in which something is pictured or figured in other, more familiar terms67
4774353641first person narrativea character, "I," who tells the story and necessarily has a limited point of view; may also be an unreliable narrator.68
4774353642flashbacka plot-structuring device whereby a scene from the fictional past is inserted into the fictional present or dramatized out of order.69
4774353643flat charactera fictional character, often but not always a minor character, who is relatively simple; who is presented as having few, though sometimes dominant, traits; and who thus does not change much in the course of a story. See round character.70
4774353644focusthe point from which people, events, and other details in a story are viewed. See point of view.71
4774353645foilone character that serves as a contrast to another72
4774353646formal dictionlanguage that is lofty, dignified, and impersonal. See colloquial diction and informal diction73
4774353647free versepoetry characterized by varying line lengths, lack of traditional meter, and nonrhyming lines74
4774353648genrethe largest category for classifying lit-erature— fiction, poetry, drama. See kind and subgenre.75
4774353649haikuan unrhymed poetic form, Japanese in origin, that contains seventeen syllables arranged in three lines of five, seven, and five syllables, respectively76
4774353650hero/heroinethe leading male/female character, usually larger than life, sometimes almost godlike. See antihero, protagonist, and villain.77
4774353651heroic coupletrhymed pairs of lines in iambic pentameter.78
4774353652hexametera line of poetry with six feet: "She comes, | she comes | again, | like ring | dove frayed | and fled" (Keats, The Eve of St. Agnes).79
4774353653high (verbal) comedyhumor that employs subtlety, wit, or the representation of refined life. See low (physical) comedy.80
4774353654hyperboleoverstatement characterized by exaggerated language.81
4774353655iamba metrical foot consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one82
4774353656iambic pentametera metrical form in which the basic foot is an iamb and most lines consist of five iambs; iambic pentameter is the most common poetic meter in English: "One com | mon note | on ei | ther lyre | did strike" (Dryden, "To the Memory of Mr. Oldham")83
4774353657imagerybroadly 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.84
4774353658imitative structurea textual organization that mirrors as exactly as possible the structure of something that already exists as an object and can be seen.85
4774353659implied authorthe guiding personality or value system behind a text; the implied author is not necessarily synonymous with the actual author.86
4774353660informal dictionlanguage that is not as lofty or impersonal as formal diction; similar to everyday speech. See colloquial diction, which is one variety of informal diction87
4774353661initiation storya kind of short story in which a character—often but not always a child or young person—first learns a significant, usually life-changing truth about the universe, society, people, himself or herself.88
4774353662in 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.89
4774353663ironya situation or statement characterized by a significant difference between what is expected or understood and what actually happens or is meant. See cosmic irony, dramatic irony, and situational irony.90
4774353664Italian sonnetsee Petrarchan sonnet91
4774353665kinda species or subcategory within a subgenre; initiation story is a subcategory of the subgenre short story92
4774353666limericka light or humorous verse form of mainly anapestic verses of which the first, second, and fifth lines are of three feet; the third and fourth lines are of two feet; and the rhyme scheme is aabba93
4774353667limited point of view or focusa perspective pinned to a single character, whether a first-person-or a third-person-centered consciousness, so that we cannot know for sure what is going on in the minds of other characters; thus, when the focal character leaves the room in a story we must go, too, and cannot know what is going on while our "eyes" or "camera" is gone. A variation on this, which generally has no name and is often lumped with the omniscient point of view, is the point of view that can wander like a camera from one character to another and close in or move back but cannot (or at least does not) get inside anyone's head and does not present from the inside any character's thoughts.94
4774353668literary criticismthe evaluative or interpretive work written by professional interpreters of texts. It is "criticism" not because it is negative or corrective, but rather because those who write criticism ask hard, analytical, crucial, or "critical" questions about the works they read.95
4774353669litotesa figure of speech that emphasizes its subject by conscious understatement. An example from common speech is to say "Not bad" as a form of high praise.96
4774353670low (physical) comedyhumor that employs burlesque, horseplay, or the representation of unrefined life. See high (verbal) comedy97
4774353671lyricoriginally, a poem meant to be sung to the accompaniment of a lyre; now, any short poem in which the speaker expresses intense personal emotion rather than describing a narrative or dramatic situation.98
4774353672major (main) charactersthose characters whom we see and learn about the most99
4774353673meditationa contemplation of some physical object as a way of reflecting upon some larger truth, often (but not necessarily) a spiritual one.100
4774353674memory devicesalso called mnemonic devices; these devices— including rhyme, repetitive phrasing, and meter— when part of the structure of a longer work, make that work easier to memorize.101
4774353675metaphor(1) one thing pictured as if it were something else, suggesting a likeness or analogy between them; (2) an implicit comparison or identification of one thing with another unlike itself without the use of a verbal signal. Sometimes used as a general term for figure of speech.102
4774353676meterthe more or less regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry. This is determined by the kind of "foot" (iambic and dactylic, for example) and by the number of feet per line (five feet = pentameter, six feet = hexameter, for example).103
4774353677minor charactersthose figures who fill out the story but who do not figure prominently in it104
4774353678modestyle, manner, way of proceeding, as in "tragic mode"; often used synonymously with genre, kind, and subgenre.105
4774353679monologuea speech of more than a few sentences, usually in a play but also in other genres, spoken by one person and uninterrupted by the speech of anyone else. See soliloquy.106
4774353680motifa recurrent device, formula, or situation that deliberately connects a poem with common patterns of existing thought107
4774353681mythlike allegory, myth usually is symbolic and extensive, including an entire work or story. Though it no longer is necessarily specific to or pervasive in a single culture—individual authors may now be said to create myths—myth still seems communal or cultural, while the symbolic can often involve private or personal myths. Thus stories more or less universally shared within a culture to explain its history and traditions are frequently called myths.108
4774353682narrative structurea textual organization based on sequences of connected events usually presented in a straightforward chronological framework.109
4774353683narratorthe character who "tells" the story.110
4774353684natureas it refers to a person "it is his (or her) nature" a rather old term suggesting something inborn, inherent, fixed, and thus predictable. See character, personality.111
4774353685occasional poema poem written about or for a specific occasion, public or private112
4774353686octametera line of poetry with eight feet: "Once u | pon a | midnight | dreary | while I | pondered, | weak and | weary" (Poe, "The Raven").113
4774353687octavethe first eight lines of the Italian,or Petrarchan, sonnet. See also sestet.114
4774353688odea lyric poem characterized by a serious topic and formal tone but no prescribed formal pattern. See Keats's odes and Shelley's "Ode to the West Wind."115
4774353689oeuvrethe sum total of works verifiably written by an author. See canon116
4774353690omniscient point of viewalso called unlimited point of view; 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 any character's mind at any time. Organization in which the reader has access to the perceptions and thoughts of all the characters in the story.117
4774353691onomatopoeiaa word capturing or approximating the sound of what it describes; buzz is a good example118
4774353692orchestrain classical Greek theater, a semicircular area used mostly for dancing by the chorus119
4774353693overplota main plot in fiction or drama120
4774353694overstatementexaggerated language; also called hyperbole121
4774353695oxymorona figure of speech that combines two apparently contradictory elements, as in wise fool (sophomore).122
4774353696parablea short fiction that illustrates an explicit moral lesson.123
4774353697paradoxa statement that seems contradictory but may actually be true, such as "That I may rise and stand, o'erthrow me" in Donne's "Batter My Heart."124
4774353698parodya work that imitates another work for comic effect by exaggerating the style and changing the content of the original.125
4774353699pastorala poem (also called an eclogue, a bucolic, or an idyll) that describes the simple life of country folk, usually shepherds who live a timeless, painless (and sheep-less) life in a world full of beauty, music, and love.126
4774353700pastoral playa play that features the sort of idyllic world described in the definition for pastoral.127
4774353701pentametera line of poetry with five feet: "Nuns fret | not at | their con | vent's nar | row room" (Wordsworth)128
4774353702personthe voice or figure of the author who tells and structures the story and who may or may not share the values of the actual author.129
4774353703personalitythat which distinguishes or individualizes a person; its qualities are judged not so much in terms of their moral value, as in "character," but as to whether they are "pleasing" or "unpleasing."130
4774353704personification(or prosopopeia) treating an abstraction as if it were a person by endowing it with humanlike qualities.131
4774353705Petrarchan sonnetalso called Italian sonnet; a sonnet form that divides the poem into one section of eight lines (octave) and a second section of six lines (sestet), usually following the abbaabba cdecde rhyme scheme or, more loosely, an abbacddc pattern.132
4774353706plot/plot structurethe arrangement of the action.133
4774353707plot summarya description of the arrangement of the action in the order in which it actually appears in a story. The term is popularly used to mean the description of the history, or chronological order, of the action as it would have appeared in reality. It is important to indicate exactly in which sense you are using the term.134
4774353708plot timethe temporal setting in which the action takes place in a story or play.135
4774353709point of viewalso called focus; the point from which people, events, and other details in a story are viewed. This term is sometimes used to include both focus and voice.136
4774353710precisionexactness, accuracy of language or description137
4774353711presentationthe second step in the creation of a character for the written text and the performed play; the representation of the character by the playwright in the words and actions specified in the text.138
4774353712propsarticles and objects used on the stage.139
4774353713proscenium archan arch over the front of a stage; the proscenium serves as a "frame" for the action on stage140
4774353714protagonistthe main character in a work, who may be male or female, heroic or not heroic. See antagonist, antihero, and hero/ heroine. Protagonist is the most neutral term.141
4774353715protest poema poetic attack, usually quite direct, on allegedly unjust institutions or social injustices.142
4774353716psychological realisma modification of the concept of realism, or telling it like it is, which recognizes that what is real to the individual is that which he or she perceives. It is the ground for the use of the centered consciousness, or the first-person narrator, since both of these present reality only as something perceived by the focal character.143
4774353717reader timethe actual time it takes a reader to read a work.144
4774353718realismthe practice in literature of attempting to describe nature and life without idealization and with attention to detail.145
4774353719red herringa false lead, something that misdirects expectations146
4774353720referentialwhen used to describe a poem, play, or story, referential means making textual use of a specific historical moment or event or, more broadly, making use of external, "natural," or "actual" detail.147
4774353721reflective (meditative) structurea textual organization based on the pondering of a subject, theme, or event, and letting the mind play with it, skipping from one sound to another or to related thoughts or objects as the mind receives them.148
4774353722representto verbally depict an image so that readers can "see" it.149
4774353723rhetorical tropetraditional figure of speech, used for specific persuasive effects.150
4774353724rhyme schemethe pattern of end rhymes in a poem, often noted by small letters, e.g., abab or abba, etc.151
4774353725rhythmthe modulation of weak and strong (or stressed and unstressed) elements in the flow of speech. In most poetry written before the twentieth century, rhythm was often expressed in regular, metrical forms; in prose and in free verse, rhythm is present but in a much less predictable and regular manner.152
4774353726rising actionthe second of the five parts of plot structure, in which events complicate the situation that existed at the beginning of a work, intensifying the conflict or introducing new conflict.153
4774353727rite of passagea ritual or ceremony marking an individual's passing from one stage or state to a more advanced one, or an event in one's life that seems to have such significance; a formal initiation. Rites of passage are common in initiation stories.154
4774353728round characterscomplex characters, often major characters, who can grow and change and "surprise convincingly"—that is, act in a way that you did not expect from what had gone before but now accept as possible, even probable, and "realistic."155
4774353729sarcasma form of verbal irony in which apparent praise is actually harshly or bitterly critical156
4774353730satirea literary work that holds up human failings to ridicule and censure157
4774353731second person narratora character, "you," who tells the story and necessarily has a limited point of view; may be seen as an extension of the reader, an external figure acting out a story, or an auditor; may also be an unreliable narrator158
4774353732sestetthe last six lines of the Italian, or Petrarchan, sonnet. See also octave.159
4774353733sestinaan elaborate verse structure written in blank verse that consists of six stanzas of six lines each followed by a three-line stanza. The final words of each line in the first stanza appear in variable order in the next five stanzas, and are repeated in the middle and at the end of the three lines in the final stanza, as in Elizabeth Bishop's "Sestina."160
4774353734setthe design, decoration, and scenery of the stage during a play161
4774353735settingthe time and place of the action in a story, poem, or play.162
4774353736Shakespearian Sonnetalso called an English sonnet; a sonnet form that divides the poem into three units of four lines each and a final unit of two lines (4+4+4+2 structure). Its classic rhyme scheme is abab cdcd efef gg, but there are variations.163
4774353737shaped verseanother name for concrete poetry; poetry that is shaped to look like an object.164
4774353738similea direct, explicit comparison of one thing to another, usually using the words like or as to draw the connection. See metaphor.165
4774353739situationthe context of the literary work's action, what is happening when the story, poem, or play begins166
4774353740situational ironyin a narrative, the incongruity between what the reader and/or character expects to happen and what actually does happen.167
4774353741skenea low building in the back of the stage area in classical Greek theaters. It represented the palace or temple in front of which the action took place.168
4774353742soliloquya monologue in which the character in a play is alone and speaking only to him-or herself.169
4774353743sonneta fixed verse form consisting of fourteen lines usually in iambic pentameter. See Italian sonnet and Shakespearean sonnet.170
4774353744spatial settingthe place of a poem, story, or play171
4774353745speakerthe person, not necessarily the author, who is the voice of a poem.172
4774353746Spenserian stanzaa stanza that consists of eight lines of iambic pentameter (five feet) followed by a ninth line of iambic hexameter (six feet). The rhyme scheme is ababbcbcc.173
4774353747spondeea metrical foot consisting of a pair of stressed syllables ("Dead set").174
4774353748stage directionsThe words in the printed text of a play that inform the director, crew, actors, and readers how to stage, perform, or imagine the play. Stage directions are not spoken aloud and may appear at the beginning of a play, before any scene, or attached to a line of dialogue. The place and time of the action, the design of the set itself, and at times the characters' actions or tone of voice are dictated through stage directions and interpreted by the group of people that put on a performance.175
4774353749stanzaa section of a poem demarcated by extra line spacing. Some distinguish between a stanza, a division marked by a single pattern of meter or rhyme, and a verse paragraph, a division governed by thought rather than sound pattern.176
4774353750stereotypea characterization based on conscious or unconscious assumptions that some one aspect—such as gender, age, ethnic or national identity, religion, occupation, marital status, and so on—is predictably accompanied by certain character traits, actions, even values.177
4774353751stock charactera character that appears in a number of stories or plays, such as the cruel stepmother, the braggart, and so forth.178
4774353752structurethe organization or arrangement of the various elements in a work.179
4774353753stylea distinctive manner of expression; each author's style is expressed through his/her diction, rhythm, imagery, and so on.180
4774353754subgenrea division within the category of a genre; novel, novella, and short story are subgenres of the genre fiction.181
4774353755subject(1) the concrete and literal description of what a story is about; (2) the general or specific area of concern of a poem—also called topic; (3) also used in fiction commentary to denote a character whose inner thoughts and feelings are recounted.182
4774353756subplotanother name for an underplot; a subordinate plot in fiction or drama183
4774353757suspensethe expectation of and doubt about what is going to happen next184
4774353758syllabic versea form in which the poet establishes a precise number of syllables to a line and repeats it in subsequent stanzas.185
4774353759symbola person, place, thing, event, or pattern in a literary work that designates itself and at the same time figuratively represents or "stands for" something else. Often the thing or idea represented is more abstract, general, non-or superrational; the symbol, more concrete and particular.186
4774353760symbolic poema poem in which the use of symbols is so pervasive and internally consistent that the larger referential world is distanced, if not forgotten.187
4774353761syntaxthe way words are put together to form phrases, clauses, and sentences188
4774353762technopaegniathe art of "shaped" poems in which the visual force is supposed to work spiritually or magically189
4774353763temporal settingthe time of a story, poem, or play190
4774353764terza rimaa verse form consisting of three-line stanzas in which the second line of each stanza rhymes with the first and third of the next.191
4774353765tetrametera line of poetry with four feet: "The Grass | divides | as with | a comb" (Dickinson).192
4774353766tetrameter coupletrhymed pairs of lines that contain (in classical iambic, trochaic, and anapestic verse) four measures of two feet or (in modern English verse) four metrical feet.193
4774353767theme(1) a generalized, abstract paraphrase of the inferred central or dominant idea or concern of a work; (2) the statement a poem makes about its subject.194
4774353768third-person narratora character, "he" or "she," who "tells" the story; may have either a limited point of view or an omniscient point of view; may also be an unreliable narrator195
4774353769thrust stagea stage design that allows the audience to sit around three sides of the major acting area.196
4774353770tonethe attitude a literary work takes toward its subject and theme.197
4774353771topic(1) the concrete and literal description of what a story is about; (2) a poem's general or specific area of concern. Also called subject.198
4774353772traditionan inherited, established, or customary practice.199
4774353773traditional symbolssymbols that, through years of usage, have acquired an agreed-upon significance, an accepted meaning. See archetype.200
4774353774tragedya drama in which a character (usually a good and noble person of high rank) is brought to a disastrous end in his or her confrontation with a superior force (fortune, the gods, social forces, universal values), but also comes to understand the meaning of his or her deeds and to accept an appropriate punishment. Often the protagonist's downfall is a direct result of a fatal flaw in his or her character.201
4774353775trochaica metrical form in which the basic foot is a trochee202
4774353776trocheea metrical foot consisting of a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed one ("Homer").203
4774353777turning pointthe third part of plot structure, the point at which the action stops rising and begins falling or reversing. Also called climax.204
4774353778underplota subordinate plot in fiction or drama. Also called a subplot.205
4774353779understatementlanguage that avoids obvious emphasis or embellishment; litotes is one form of it206
4774353780unity of timeone of the three unities of drama as described by Aristotle in his Poetics. Unity of time refers to the limitation of a play's action to a short period— usually the time it takes to present the play or, at any rate, no longer than a day. See classical unities.207
4774353781unlimited point of viewalso called omniscient point of view; 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 any character's mind at any time. Organization in which the reader has access to the perceptions and thoughts of all the characters in the story.208
4774353782unreliable narratora speaker or voice whose vision or version of the details of a story are consciously or unconsciously deceiving; such a narrator's version is usually subtly undermined by details in the story or the reader's general knowledge of facts outside the story. If, for example, the narrator were to tell you that Columbus was Spanish and that he discovered America in the fourteenth century when his ship the Golden Hind landed on the coast of Florida near present-day Gainesville, you might not trust other things he tells you.209
4774353783verbal ironya statement in which the literal meaning differs from the implicit meaning. See dramatic irony and situational irony.210
4774353784verse paragraphsee stanza211
4774353785villainthe one who opposes the hero and heroine—that is, the "bad guy." See antagonist and hero/heroine.212
4774353786villianellea verse form consisting of nineteen lines divided into six stanzas—five tercets (three-line stanzas) and one quatrain (four-line stanza). The first and third lines of the first tercet rhyme, and this rhyme is repeated through each of the next four tercets and in the last two lines of the concluding quatrain. The villanelle is also known for its repetition of select lines. A good example of a twentieth-century villanelle is Dylan Thomas's "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night."213
4774353787voicethe acknowledged or unacknowledged source of story's words; the speaker; the "person" telling the story.214
4774353788word orderthe positioning of words in relation to one another.215
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AP Literature Beowulf Vocabulary Flashcards

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4938685866anathemasomething or someone cursed or loathed0
4938689176arbitrateto settle an argument between two people or groups after hearing the opinions and ideas of both1
4938691816bereftdeprived or robbed of the possession or use of something2
4938694071coffera treasury; a box or place for holding precious things3
4938696484depredationan act of attack or plunder4
4938697710effulgentshining; brilliant5
4938698834gainsayto contradict, deny, or oppose6
4938700097harriedpersistently harassed or assaulted; under strain7
4938701680ignominiouscausing disgrace or shame; despicable8
4938703750litanya lengthy recitation; a repetitive chant9
4938706100measuredrestrained; thoughtful10
4938707881overweeningexcessively confident, proud, or ambitious11
4938709833presumeto assume or suppose without certain knowledge; to do something without permission or justification12
4938712570renegeto refuse to do something promised; to revoke a commitment13
4938714960reparationamends for an insult or injury14
4938716626retainera person serving, or attached to, a household or master a fee paid to a professional advisor15
4938721206sumptuousluxurious; costly; impressive16
4938722304temperto make stronger, especially through hardship to moderate or dilute the state of balance within the mind and emotions17
4938725717uncannystrange, surprising, or seemingly supernatural18
4938727176vehementmarked by forceful energy or emotion19
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AP Literature Flashcards

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6599826429allegorystory or poem that can be used to reveal a hidden meaning0
6599826430alliterationbeginning of same letter or sound in closely connected words1
6599826431allusionindirect of passing reference2
6599826432anaphorarepetition in first part of a sentence , to have an artistic meaning3
6599826433antagonista hostile person who is opposed to another character4
6599826434apostrophefigure of speech used to adresss an imaginary character5
6599826435approximate rhymewords in rhyming pattern that sound alike6
6599826436asidewhen a character's dialogue is spoken but not heard by other actors on the stage7
6599826437assonancerepetition of vowel sounds8
6599826438blank versepoetry written in meter without an ending rhyme9
6599826439cacophonyblend of unharmonious sounds10
6599826440caesurapause in the middle of a line11
6599826441catharsisthe release of emotions through art (emotional cleanse)12
6599826442flat characterstory character who have no depth, usually has one personality or characteristic13
6599826443round charactercharacter who has complex personality: contradicted person14
6599826444dynamic characterchanges throughout the story, through major conflict15
6599826445static characterperson who doesn't change throughout story keeps same personality16
6599826446characterizationprocess of revealing characters personality17
6599826447climaxpoint where conflict hits its highest point18
6599826448comedydrama that is amusing or funny19
6599826449conflictstruggle between opposing forces20
6599826450connotationsecondary meaning to a word21
6599826451consonancerepetition of same consonant in words close together22
6599826452couplettwo rhyming lines in a verse23
6599826453denotationthe literal meaning of a word24
6599826454denouementfinal outcome of the story25
6599826455deus ex machinaresolution of a plot by chance or coincidence26
6599826456didactic writingwriting with a primary purpose to teach or preach27
6599826457direct presentation of characterauthor telling the reader how a character is and what actions it will do further in the story28
6599826458double rhymerhyme where the repeated vowel is in the second last syllable of words involved (ex; born scorn)29
6599826459dramatic expositionprose commentaries, to provide background information about the characters and their world30
6599826460end rhymerhymes occurring at the end of line31
6599826461end stopped lineline ending in regular punctuation32
6599826462English sonneta sonnet rhyming ababcdcdededgg33
6599826463epiphanywhen a character receives a spiritual insight into they life34
6599826464euphonysmooth choice and arrangement of sounds35
6599826465extended figureA figure of speech sustained or developed through a considerable number of lines or through a whole poem.36
6599826466falling actionEvents after the climax, leading to the resolution37
6599826467feminine rhymelines rhymed by their final two syllables38
6599826468figurative languageLanguage that cannot be taken literally since it was written to create a special effect or feeling.39
6599826469figure of speecha way of saying something other than the ordinary way40
6599826470footbasic unit in the scansion or measurement of verse , stressed and un stressed syllables41
6599826471formexternal pattern or shape of a poem42
6599826472free versePoetry that does not have a regular meter or rhyme scheme43
6599826473hamartiatragic flaw which causes a character's downfall44
6599826474imageryDescription that appeals to the senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste)45
6599826475indirect presentation of characterthe personality of a character is revealed by what he or she does or says46
6599826476internal rhymeA word inside a line rhymes with another word on the same line47
6599826477ironyA contrast between expectation and reality48
6599826478verbal ironyA figure of speech in which what is said is the opposite of what is meant49
6599826479dramatic ironyIrony that occurs when the meaning of the situation is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play.50
6599826480irony of situationrefers to an occurrence that is contrary to what is expected or intended51
6599826481italian sonnetA sonnet consisting of an octave with the rhyme pattern abbaabba, followed by a sestet with the rhyme pattern cdecde or cdcdcd52
6599826482masculine rhymeA rhyme ending on the final stressed syllable53
6599826483melodramaa play based upon a dramatic plot and developed sensationally54
6599826484metaphorA comparison without using like or as55
6599826485meterA regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry56
6599826486metonymyA figure of speech in which something is referred to by using the name of something that is associated with it57
6599826487motivationA need or desire that energizes and directs behavior58
6599826488narratorPerson telling the story59
6599826489octave8 line stanza60
6599826490onomatopoeiaA word that imitates the sound it represents.61
6599826491hyperboleA figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humor62
6599826492oxymoronA figure of speech that combines opposite or contradictory terms in a brief phrase.63
6599826493paradoxA contradiction or dilemma64
6599826494paraphraseA restatement of a text or passage in your own words.65
6599826495personificationA figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes66
6599826496plotSequence of events in a story67
6599826497point of viewThe perspective from which a story is told68
6599826498omniscient point of viewThe point of view where the narrator knows everything about the characters and their problems - told in the 3rd person.69
6599826499third person limited point of viewnarrator tells the story from only one character's pov70
6599826500first person point of viewa character in the story is actually telling the story himself/herself71
6599826501objective point of viewa narrator who is totally impersonal and objective tells the story, with no comment on any characters or events.72
6599826502protagonistMain character73
6599826503quatrainA four line stanza74
6599826504rhythmA regularly recurring sequence of events or actions.75
6599826505rhyme schemeA regular pattern of rhyming words in a poem76
6599826506rising actionEvents leading up to the climax77
6599826507sarcasmthe use of irony to mock or convey contempt78
6599826508satireA literary work that criticizes human misconduct and ridicules vices, stupidities, and follies.79
6599826509scansionAnalysis of verse into metrical patterns80
6599826510sestet6 line stanza81
6599826511settingThe context in time and place in which the action of a story occurs.82
6599826512simileA comparison using "like" or "as"83
6599826513soliloquyA long speech expressing the thoughts of a character alone on stage84
6599826514sonnet14 line poem85
6599826515stanzaA group of lines in a poem86
6599826516stream of consciousnessprivate thoughts of a character without commentary87
6599826517syllabic verseVerse measured by the number of syllables rather than the number of feet per line.88
6599826518symbolA thing that represents or stands for something else89
6599826519synecdochea figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa90
6599826520synesthesiadescribing one kind of sensation in terms of another ("a loud color", "a sweet sound")91
6599826521tercet3 line stanza92
6599826522terza rimaa verse form with a rhyme scheme: aba bcb cdc, etc.93
6599826523themeCentral idea of a work of literature94
6599826524toneAttitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character95
6599826525tragedyA serious form of drama dealing with the downfall of a heroic or noble character96
6599826526truncationUtilizing a melody with part of the end omitted.97
6599826527understandmentthe deliberate representation of something as lesser in magnitude than it actually is; a deliberate under-emphasis98
6599826528verseA single line of poetry writing arranged with a metrical rhythm, typically having a rhyme99
6599826529vilanellea nineteen-line poem with two rhymes throughout, consisting of five tercets and a quatrain, with the first and third lines of the opening tercet recurring alternately at the end of the other tercets and with both repeated at the close of the concluding quatrain.100
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AP Language Flashcards

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6727004066Allegorya story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one0
6727011639Alliterationthe occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words1
6727019015Allusionan expression designed to call something to mind without mentioning it explicitly; an indirect or passing reference2
6727031947Ambiguityuncertainty or inexactness in language3
6727036352Analogya comparison between two things, typically on the basis of their structure and for the purpose of explanation or clarification4
6727048373Anaphoraone of the devices of repetition, in which the same expression (word or words) is repeated at the beginning of two or more lines, clauses, or sentences5
6727145508Antecedentthe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun6
6727154218Antimetabolea literary and rhetorical device in which a phrase or sentence is repeated, but in reverse order7
6727172859Antithesisa person or thing that is the direct opposite of someone or something else8
6727175734Aphorisma terse statement of known authorship that expresses a general truth or moral principle9
6727184458Apostrophe (figure of speech)a figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified, abstraction, such as liberty or love. An address to someone or something that cannot answer. The effect is to display intense emotion, which can no longer be held back.10
6727217613Appositivenoun, noun phrase, or noun clause which follows a noun or pronoun and renames the noun or pronoun11
6727224643Archaic Dictionthe use of words common to an earlier time period12
6727230392Asyndetonleaving out conjunctions between words, phrases, clauses13
6727236041Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of a series of conjunctions14
6727238459Atmospherethe emotional feeling or mood of a place, scene, or event15
6727485310Caricaturea description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect16
6727489004Clausea grammatical unit that contains both a subject and verb17
6727493423Chiasmusa figure of speech in which two successive phrases or clauses are parallel in syntax, but revere the order of analogous words ex: "Poetry is the record of the best and happiest moments of the happiest and best minds"18
6727561404Colloquialthe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing19
6727575116Conceita fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects. Displays intellectual cleverness.20
6727592993Connotationthe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning. may involve ideas, emotions, or attitudes.21
6727856560Denotationthe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color22
6727864030Dictionthe author's choice of words that creates a tone, attitude, and style, as well as meaning23
6727870173Didacticwriting whose purpose is to teach, usually formal and focuses on moral or ethical concerns24
6727973061Euphemisma more acceptable and usually more pleasant way of saying something that might be inappropriate or uncomfortable (passing away vs. dying)25
6727982011Exigencean issue, problem, or situation that causes or prompts someone to write or speak26
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AP Language Lesson Ten Flashcards

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6084129081idolatryexcessive or blind adoration; worship of an object0
6084130002ignobledishonorable, shameful1
6084130945imminentlikely to happen; threatening2
6084132321immolateto kill someone as a sacrificial victim, usually by fire3
6084133455immutableunchangeable, fixed4
6084133456impairto weaken; to cause to become worse5
6084134758impaleto pierce with a sharp stake through the body6
6084136458impalpablecannot be felt7
6084136459impecuniousto be without money; penniless8
6084138229impedimenta barrier; obstruction9
6084139321imperativeextremely necessary; vitally important10
6084140172imperiousdomineering; haughty11
6084142189impingeto strike; to encroach12
6084143660impiousdisrespectful toward God13
6084144860importuneto persistently ask; to beg14
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Top 100 AP Language terms 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.

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3990453372AllegoryThe 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. A story in which each aspect of the story has a symbolic meaning outside the tale itself.0
3990453373AlliterationThe 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.1
3990453374AllusionA 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.2
3990453375AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.3
3990453376AnalogyA 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.4
3990453377AntecedentThe 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. 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."5
3990453378Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.6
3990453379AphorismA 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 aphorism can be a memorable summation of the author's point7
3990453380ApostropheA prayer like 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 a Grecian Urn," in which Keats addresses the urn itself: rarely on an AP exam, but important when there. ALWAYS Pathos8
3990453381AtmosphereThe 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 atmosphere. Frequently atmosphere foreshadows events. Perhaps it can create a mood.9
3990453382Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics. Example: The pupils of her eyes are small; like a pebble of sand floating atop a can of blue paint.10
3990453383ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb. An independent, or main, clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent, or subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a sentence and must be accompanied by an independent clause. The point that you want to consider is the question of what or why the author subordinates one element should also become aware of making effective use of subordination in your own writing.11
3990453384Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing. Not generally acceptable for formal writing, colloquialisms give a work a conversational, familiar tone. Colloquial expressions in writing include local or regional dialect12
3990453385Literary ConceitA fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects Displays intellectual cleverness through unusual comparisons that make good sense13
3990453386ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning. Connotations may involve ideas, emotions or attitudes14
3990453387DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color. (Example: the denotation of knife- a utensil for cutting - Connotation - knife - such as knife in the back - anger fear violence betrayal15
3990453388DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness. FOR AP EXAMSyou should be able to describe the uthors diction and understand how it compliments his purpose (along iwth imagery syntax, literary devices, etc)16
3990453389DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching." Didactic words have the primary aim of teaching or instructing,especially the teaching of moral or ethical principles.17
3990453390EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT18
3990453391Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.19
3990453392Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid20
3990453393Figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. Figures of speech include apotrophe hyperbole irony metaphor oxymoron paradox personification simile syneddoche understatement21
3990453394Generic conventionsThis term describes traditions for each genre. These conventions help to define each genre; for example, and differentiate an essay they differentiate they differentiate an essay and journalistic writing or an autobiography and political writing. On the AP language exam,try to distinguish the unique features of a writer's work from those dictated by convention.22
3990453395GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.However, genre is a flexible term; within these broad boundaries exist many subdivisions that are often called genresthemselves. 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 genres: autobiography, biography, diaries, criticism, essays, and journalistic, political, scientific, and nature writing. There may be fiction or poetry.23
3990453396HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.24
3990453397HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.") Hyperboles often have a comic effect; however, a serious effect is also possible. Often, hyperbole produces irony. The opposite of hyperbole is understatement.25
3990453398ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. On a physical level, imagery uses terms related to the five senses: visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, and olfactory. On a broader and 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 imagery 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 imagery.26
3990453399Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented. When a multiple choice question asks for an inference to be drawn from a passage, the most direct, most reasonable inference is the safest answer choice. If an inference is implausible, it's unlikely to be the correct answer. Note that if the answer choice is directly stated, it is not inferred and it is wrong. You must be careful to note the connotation - negative or positive - of the choices. Adapted from V. Stevenson, Patrick Henry High School, and Abrams' Glossary of Literary Terms27
3990453400Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language. (For example, in Henry IV, Part hill of flesh.")28
3990453401Irony/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. Irony is often used to create poignancy or humor. In general, there are three major types of irony used in language: (1) verbal irony - when the words literally state the opposite of the writer's (or speaker's) meaning (2) situational irony - 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 irony - 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.29
3990453402Loose 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 loose sentences often seems informal, relaxed, or conversational. Generally, loose sentences create loose style. The opposite of a loose sentence 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.30
3990453403MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity. Metaphorical language makes writing more vivid, imaginative, thought provoking, and meaningful.31
3990453404Metonymy(mĕtŏn′ ĭmē) A term from the Greek meaning "changed label" or "substitute name," metonymy 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.32
3990453405MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work. Setting, tone, and events can affect the mood. Mood is similar to tone and atmosphere.33
3990453406NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.34
3990453407onomatopoeiaA 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.35
3990453408OxymoronFrom the Greek for "pointedly foolish," an oxymoron 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 oxymoron.36
3990453409ParadoxA 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....")37
3990453410ParallelismAlso referred to as parallel construction or parallel structure, this term 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 a preposition or verbal 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 parallelism 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 rhythm. Adapted from V. Stevenson, Patrick Henry High School, and Abrams' Glossary of Literary Terms38
3990453411ParodyA 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 parody offers enlightenment about the original, but poorly written parody offers only ineffectual imitation. nuances of the newer work. Occasionally, however, parodies take on a life of their own and don't require knowledge of the original.39
3990453412PedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish (language that might be described as "show-offy"; using big words for the sake of using big words).40
3990453413Periodic 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 or clause that cannot stand alone. The effect of a periodic sentence 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.)41
3990453414PersonificationA figure of speech 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.42
3990453415Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told. There are two general divisions of point of view, 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 point of view carries an additional meaning. When you are asked to analyze the author's point of view, the appropriate point for you to address is the author's attitude.43
3990453416Proseone of the major divisions of genre, prose refers to fiction and nonfiction, including all its forms. In prose the printer determines the length of the line; in poetry, the poet determines the length of the line.44
3990453417RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.45
3990453418RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.46
3990453419Rhetorical modesThis flexible term describes the variety, the conventions, and the purposes of the major kinds of writing. The four most common rhetorical modes (often referred to as "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, 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 description; good descriptive writing can be sensuous and picturesque. Descriptive writing may be straightforward and objective or highly emotional an subjective. (4) The purpose of narration is to tell a story or narrate an event or series of events. This writing mode frequently uses the tools of descriptive writing. Adapted from V. Stevenson, Patrick Henry High School, and Abrams' Glossary of Literary Terms47
3990453420SarcasmFrom the Greek meaning "to tear flesh," sarcasm 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 sarcastic (that is, intended to ridicule). When well done, sarcasm can be witty and insightful; when poorly done, it is simply cruel.48
3990453421SatireA 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, satire 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 satirist: 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).49
3990453422StyleThe consideration of style has two purposes: (1) An evaluation of the sum of the choices an author makes in blending diction, syntax, figurative language, and other We can analyze and describe an author's personal style and make judgments on how appropriate it is to the author's purpose. Styles 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 style 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.50
3990453423Subject 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 predicate 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, Warren51
3990453424Subordinate clauseLike all clauses, this word group contains both a subject and a verb (plus any accompanying phrases or modifiers), but unlike the independent clause, the subordinate clause cannot stand alone; it does not express a complete thought. Also called a dependent clause, the subordinate clause 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. underlined phrase = subordinate clause52
3990453425SyllogismFrom the Greek for "reckoning together," a syllogism (or syllogistic reasoning or syllogistic 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 syllogism's conclusion is valid only if each of the two premises is valid. Syllogisms may also present the specific idea first ("Socrates") and the general second ("all men"). Adapted from V. Stevenson, Patrick Henry High School, and Abrams' Glossary of Literary Terms53
3990453426Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else. Usually a symbol is something concrete -- such as an object, action, character, or scene - that represents something more abstract. However, symbols (1) natural symbols are objects and occurrences from nature to symbolize ideas commonly associated with them (dawn symbolizing hope or a new beginning, a rose symbolizing love, a tree symbolizing knowledge). (2) conventional symbols are those that have been invested with meaning by a group (religious symbols such as a cross or Star of David; national symbols, such as a flag or an eagle; or group symbols, such as a skull and crossbones for pirates or the scale of justice for lawyers). (3) literary symbols 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 symbols 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 symbol for and to what extent it is successful in representing that abstraction.54
3990453427SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences. Syntax is similar to diction, but you can differentiate them by thinking of syntax 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 syntax. In the essay section, you will need to analyze how syntax produces effects.55
3990453428ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life. Usually theme is unstated in fictional works, but in nonfiction, the theme may be directly state, especially in expository or argumentative writing.56
3990453429ThesisIn expository writing, the thesis 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.57
3990453430ToneSimilar to mood, tone describes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both. Tone 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 tone. Some words describing tone are playful, serious, businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, somber, etc.58
3990453431TransitionA word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and argumentative writing, transitions effectively signal a shift from one idea to another. A few commonly used transitional words or phrases are furthermore, consequently, nevertheless, for example, in addition, likewise, similarly, on the contrary, etc. More sophisticated writers use more subtle means of transition.59
3990453432Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact, understatement presents something as less significant than it is. The effect can frequently be humorous and emphatic. Understatement 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."60
3990453433Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights. A witty statement is humorous, while suggesting the speaker's verbal power in creating ingenious and perceptive remarks. Wit usually uses terse language that makes a pointed statement. Historically, wit originally meant basic understanding. Its meaning evolved to include speedof understanding, and finally, it grew to mean quick perception including creative fancy and a quick tongue to articulate an answer that demanded the same quick perception.61
3990453434Ad HominemAn attack on the person rather than the issue at hand - a common fallacy - common in elections62
3990453435Chisamus'chi structure' unlike abab / language listed in an abba form: Ask not what your country Can do for you, But what you Can do for your country63
3990453436Malapropisma word humorously misused: Example, he is the AMPLE of her eye... instead of ' he is the APPLE of her eye,64
3990453437Parallelism (parallel syntax)a pattern of language that creates a rhythm of repetition often combined with some other language of repetition. Like a train gaining momentum. Ex: When you are right you cannot be too radical; when you are wrong, you cannot be too conservative.65
3990453438Poisoning the WellDiscrediting a person's claim by presenting unfavorable information (true or false) about the person. Person B attacking Person A before Person A can make his/her claim. Example: 'John, an abusive alcoholic, will now give his argument for the legalization of public drinking'.66
3990453439Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.67
3990453440straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.68
3990453441EthosOne of the fundamental strategies of argumentation identified by Aristotle. Ethos is basically an appeal to credibility. The writer is seeking to convince you that he or she has the background, history, skills, and/or expertise to speak on the issue. Whenever you encounter an ethos argument, always ask yourself is the credibility is substantiated and valid. An essay advocating policy changes on drug rehabilitation programs is more powerful is the person is a former addict or customer in a current rehab program.69
3990453442JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite. In art it is called chiaroscuro, where a bright white object is placed next to a black object and thus both are made more visible. My goodness is often chastened by my sense of sin, or The Gasoline savings from a hybrid car as compared to a standard car seem excellent until one compares the asking prices of the two vehicles. The juxtaposition of the asking prices shows that the savings are not as significant as they first appear.70
3990453443LogosAn appeal to reason. Logos is one of the fundamental strategies of argumentation identified by Aristotle. It occurs when a writer tries to convince you of the logic of his argument. writers may use inductive argumentation or deductive argumentation, but they clearly have examples and generally rational tome to their language. The problem with logos is that is can appear reasonable until you dissect the argument and then find fallacies that defeat the viability of the argument on the reader's eyes. Of course, that presupposes that the readers is able to identify the fallacies.71
3990453444PathosAn appeal to emotion. This is one of the fundamental strategies of argumentation identified by Aristotle. Typically, pathos arguments may use loaded words to make you feel guilty, lonely, worried, insecure, or confused. The easiest way to remember whats pathos arguments are is to see most advertising as a form of pathos argument.72
3990453445Predicate AdjectiveAm adjective that follows a linking web and modifies the subject of the sentence. The gigantic whirlpool was inky black, and there was no moon.73
3990453446Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed, a rhetorical question is designed to force the reader to respond in a predetermined manner and is a significant tool in the study of rhetoric. One of the most basic purposes for rhetorical questions is cheerleading. Rhetorical questions, therefor, propel an argument emotionally. They often look like extensions of a logical argument, but more often than not, they are setting you up to agree with the writer. As with a parallel syntax, rhetorical questions are excellent devices to use in the development of your own essay writing. As graders, we notice when you use them- if you use them to effectively nurture your argument. There are some types of rhetorical questions, but they always follow the same basic pattern: the writer ask herself something and then answers the question in the next sentence or paragraph. Another form is when the question functions as an ironic assault on the writer's adversaries. This kind if rhetorical question can have many uses, and you should notice its function whenever you encounter one in nonfiction prose. Who's afraid of the big bad wolf? Who's afraid of the jolly green giant? Are we? No!!!74
3990453447SimileA critical figure of speech in an argument when what is unknown is compared to something that is known using the word "like," "as," or "than" in order to better perceive its importance. Remember the ripple effect and look for patterns in similes and metaphors in any piece of nonfiction prose. The troll's fishing technique was like a mercenary throwing bombs in the water to catch trout.75
3990453448rhetorical appealthe persuasive devices by which a writer tries to sway an audience's attention and response to any given work. See logos, ethos, and pathos.76
3990453449concrete detailStrictly defined, concrete refers to nouns that name physical objects, -a bridge. a book, or a coat. Concrete nouns are the opposite of abstract nouns (which refer to concepts like freedom and love). However, as used in the essay portion of the AP Language and Composition Exam. this term has a slightly different connotation. The direc tions may read sometbing like this: "Provide concrete details that will convince the reader." This means that your essay should include details in the passage; at times, you' ll be allowed I() provide details from your own life (readings, obser· vations, experiences, and so forth).77
3990453450descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description. Descriptive detail appealing to the visual sense is usually tbe most predominant, but don't overlook other sensory details. As usual, after you identify a passage's descriptive details, analyze their effect.78
3990453451devicesThe figures of speecb, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.79
3990453452narrative devicesThis term describes the tools of the storyteller (also used in nonfiction), such as ordering events so that they build to a climactic moment or withholding infomlation until a crucial or appropriate momcnt when revealing it creates a desired effect On the essay portion of the exam, this lerm may also apply to biographical and autobiographical writing.80
3990453453narrative techniquesThe style of telling the "story," even if the passage is nonfiction. Concentrate on the order of events and on their detail in evaluating a writer's technique.81
3990453454sentence structureWhen an essay question asks you to analyze sentence structure, look at the type of sentences the author uses. Remember that the basic sentence structures are simple, compound, and complex and variations created with sentence combining. Also consider variation or lack of it in sentence length, any unusual devices in sentence construction, such as repetition or inverted word order, and any unusual word or phrase placement with all devices, be prepared to discuss the effect of the sentence structure. For example, a series of short, simple sentences or phrases can produce a feeling of speed and choppiness. which may suit the author's purpose.82
3990453455stylistic devicesAn essay prompt that mentions stylistic devices is asking you to note and analyze all of the elements in language that contribute to style-such as diction, syntax, tone, attitude, figures of speech, connotations, and repetition.83
3990453456Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue84
3990453457AnadiplosisFigure of repetition that occurs when the last word or terms in one sentence, clause, or phrase is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of the next sentence, clause, or phrase.85
3990453458AnaphoraFigure of repetition that occurs when the first word or set of words in one sentence, clause, or phrase is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of successive sentences, clauses, or phrases; repetition of the initial words over successive phrases or clauses86
3990453459Anathema(n.) an object of intense dislike; a curse or strong denunciation (often used adjectivally without the article)87
3990453460AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point88
3990453461Antimeriathe substitution of one part of speech for another89
3990453462AntimetaboleFigure of emphasis in which the words in one phrase or clause are replicated, exactly or closely, in reverse grammatical order in the next phrase or clause; a chiasmus on the level of words (A-B, B-A). For example, "And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country" (JFK).90
3990453463Appeal to authorityA fallacy in which a speaker or writer seeks to persuade not by giving evidence but by appealing to the respect people have for a famous person or institution.91
3990453464Argumentationone of the four forms of discourse which uses logic, ethics, and emotional appeals (logos, ethos, pathos) to develop an effective means to convince the reader to think or act in a certain way.92
3990453465AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity93
3990453466AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction), e.g. "I came, I saw, I conquered." The parts of the sentence are emphasized equally; in addition, the use of commas with no intervening conjunction speeds up the flow of the sentence.94
3990453467attitudeA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.95
3990453468audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.96
3990453469Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast97
3990453470Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.98
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Ap language vocabulary Flashcards

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3019879514Ad hominemDef: a fallacy that attacks the person rather than dealing with the real issue in dispute Ex: you blame your friend for deleting the project instead of fixing it0
3019879515AllegoryDef: A literary work in which characters, object, or actions represent abstractions Ex: animal farm1
3019879516AlliterationDef: reptition of initial consonant sounds Ex: ah, what a delicious day2
3019879517AllusionDef: a refrence to a historical person or event or to a literary work or figure that is well known enough to be reconized by a well-read person Ex: shakespear3
3019879518AnadiplosisRepetition of the last word of one clause at the beginning of the following clause Ex: sun through the sea/sea in the heart/ heart in its house4
3019879519AnalogyDef: a comparison between two things, typically on the basis of their structure and for the purpose of explanation or clarification Ex: knowledge always desires increase, its like a fire5
3019879520AnaphoraDef: a sub-type of parallelism, when the exact repetition of words or phrases at the beging of successive lines or sentence Ex: is this what you want? Is this how you want it? Is this where you want it?6
3019879521AnedoteDef: a short account of an incident in someones life Ex: a fire saftey instruction tells you a story about what happened to a man7
3019879522AnnotationDef: a critical or explanatory note or comment, expecially for a literary work Ex: notes or comments8
3019879523AntithesisDef: balancing words, phrases, or ideas that are strongley contrasted, often by means of grammatical structure Ex: if we try, we might succeeed, if we dont try, we cannot succed9
3021301005Emotional appealDef: tries to persuade the reader by using word that appeal to the reader's emotions instead of logic or reason Ex: If you dont let me use the car tonight, everyone is going to hate me10
3021314551Dramatic IronyDef: In this type of irony, facts or events are unknown to a character in a play or a piece of fiction but known to the reader, audience, or other characters in the work Ex: In a scary movie, a character walks into a house and the audience knows the killer is in the house11
3021335175asyndetonDef: commas used (with no conjunction) to seperate a series of words, speeds up flow of sentence. xyz opposed to x,y, and z Ex: he was a winner, a hero12
3021351761ChiasmusDef: A statement consisting of two parallel parts in which the second part is structurally reversed Ex: ask not what your country can do for you ask what you can do for your country13
3021377207DissonanceDef: a harsh and disagreeable combination especially of sounds ex: the dissonance between what we see with our own eyes and what we are told14
3021392901Denotationdictionary definition of a word15
3021392902DictionDef: a writers or speakers choice of words16
3021395626DeductionDef: a form of reasoning that begins with generalization, then applies the generalization to a specific case or cases Ex: all organisms have RNA Therefore, a raccoon has RNA17
3021411965ConsonanceDef: Repetition of a consonant sound within two or more words in close proximity. Ex. Blank and think spelled and scald18
3021420080ColloquialismDef: Informal words or expressions not usually acceptable in formal writing Ex: wanna ganna y'all19
3021430463concrete languageDef: Language that describes specific, observable things, people, or places, rather than ideas or qualities. Ex: noises objects, food20
3021435592CanonDef:An established set of principles or code of laws, often religious in nature Ex: the standard of how exams are graded by21
3021440992ConceitDef:A fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects. Ex: You are as slow as a snail22
3021446787CaricatureDef:A portrait (verbal or otherwise) that exaggerates a facet of personality. Ex: her eyes were lasers boring a hole through me Her ears were smoking and her hair was on fire mom was mad23
3021458055CacophonyDef: Harsh, jarring noise Ex: dishes crashing on the floor24
3021461639AssonanceDef: Repetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity Ex: Oh a proud round cloud in white high night25
3021467842ApostropheDef: A figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction, such as liberty or love. Ex: oh desk you hold all my stuff so nicely26
3021478483AnthimeriaDef: The substitution of one part of speech for another Ex: I'll unhair your head27
3021484803AnastropheDef: inversion of the usual order of words Ex: try, he did not28
3021488928AphorismDef: A brief, cleverly worded statement that makes a wise observation about life. Ex: if it ain't broke, don't fix it.29
3034933041ForeshadowingDefinition= In literature, foreshadowing is a literary device authors use to hint toward future events in the story. Example= "Life were better ended by their hate, Than death prorogued, wanting of thy love"30
3034936399Extended metaphorDef:A metaphor developed a great length occurring frequently frequently in or throughout a work Ex: Bobby says my imagination is a three-hundred-ring circus. Currently I was in ring two hundred and ninety-nine, with elephants dancing and clowns cart wheeling and tigers leaping through rings of fire31
3034947157Heroic CoupletDef:A pair of rhyming iambic pentameters Ex: The time is out of joint, O cursed spite That ever I was born to set it right!32
3034950540EpistropheDef: the repetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive clauses. Ex:If you had known the virtue of the ring, Or half her worthiness that gave the ring, Or your own honour to contain the ring, You would not then have parted with the ring.33
3034960278EnjambedDef:(of a line, couplet, or stanza of verse) ending partway through a sentence or clause that continues in the next. ex:Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing Memory and desire, stirring Dull roots with spring rain.34
3034972544EuphonyDefinition: The quality of being pleasing to the ear, especially through a harmonious combination of words. Example: 1. Twinkle, twinkle, little star, How I wonder what you are. Up above the world so high, Like a diamond in the sky.35
3034976430ExpositionDefinition: a comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory Example: The U.S. flag consists of thirteen alternating stripes of red and blue, representing the 13 original states. In the top left of the flag there is a field of blue with fifty stars, one for each state.36
3034979777HumanismDefinition: A Renaissance intellectual movement in which thinkers studied classical texts and focused on human potential and achievements. Example: "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare includes introspection, self awareness and musings about mankind.37
3034985423Free VerseDefinition: Poetry that does not rhyme or have a regular meter Example: It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.38
3034991419Framedefinition: to find an angle to appeal to the reader of a piece and convince them of an argument example: you should buy this Escalade because it make you look rich.39
3035000318ethical appealdefinition: a method of persuasion that's based on the author's credibility. example: "our expertise in roofing contracting is evidence not only by over 100 years in the business and our staff of qualified technicians, but in the decades of satisfied customers who have come to expect nothing but the best."40
3035006880GenreDef:a category of artistic composition, as in music or literature, characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter. Examples: Sci-fi, action and adventure, comedy41
3035010570EpithetDefinition: A descriptive word or phrase occurring with or in place of the name of a person or thing. An insulting or demeaning word or phrase. Example: Star-crossed lovers, The Great Emancipator (Abraham Lincoln)42
3035014126Figurative LanguageDefinition: a word or words that are inaccurate literally but described by calling to mind sensations or responses that a thing described evokes. Example: the dogs breath smelled like fish 43
3035017038EpigraphDefinition: An inscription on a building, statue, or coin Example: In God we trust44
3035025740HubrisDefinition- Excessive pride or self-confidence, arrogance Example- Mr. Darcy in "Pride and Prejudice" nearly loses Elizabeth because of excessive pride45
3035033102EuphemismDefinition: An indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant Example: -Passed away (instead of died) -He's a special child46
3035037065HyperboleDef: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. Example: "OMG! You scared me! I almost died!"47
3035044680False AnalogyDefinition- An argument using an inappropriate metaphor. Example- The earth is like a watch and, just as a fine watch was made, so also the earth was made.48
3075565630InferenceDef: A conclusion one can draw from the presented details Ex: When we make an inference, we draw a conclusion based on the evidence that we have available.49
3075572532Interior monologueDef: A passage of writing presenting a character's inner thoughts and emotions in a direct, sometimes disjointed or fragmentary, manner. Ex: I am just taking the names, Hynes said below his breath. What is your christian name? I'm not sure50
3075578082InvectiveDef: abusive language Ex: You are a slut51
3075583549InversionDef:A sentence in which the verb precedes the subject Ex: Her mother is the lady of the house, And a good lady, and wise and virtuous. I nursed her daughter that you talked withal. I tell you, he that can lay hold of her, Shall have the chinks.52
3075586381IronyDef: A device that depends on the existence of at least two separate and contrasting levels of meaning embedded in one message. Verbal irony is sarcasm when the speaker says something other than what they really mean. In dramatic irony the audience is more aware than the characters in a work. Situational irony occurs when the opposite of what is expected happens. This type of irony often emphasizes that people are caught in forces beyond their comprehension and control Ex: I hate you even though i love you53
3075600664JargonDef: (noun) specialized technical terminology; a characteristic language of a particular group Ex: police; suspect, code eight, 10-4,54
3075604225LampoonDef: to ridicule with satire Ex: When you make a cartoon about a politician's new platform and publish it55
3075608979LitotesDef: ironical understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of its contrary Ex: We saw him throw the buckets of paint at his canvas in disgust, and the result did not perfectly represent his subject, Mrs. Jittery.56
3075614456Logical FallacyDef: A "fallacy" is a mistake, and a "logical" fallacy is a mistake in reasoning. There are many "types" of logical fallacies (for example, refer to the terms "ad hominem," and "circular reasoning"). Logical fallacies generally occur in arguments that fail to make concrete, logical claims for support. Ex: (1) All dogs have legs. (2) Tiny is a dog. Therefore: (3) Tiny has legs.57
3075622253LyricalDef: Expressing deep personal emotions or observations Ex: Turn back the heart you've turned away Give back your kissing breath Leave not my love as you have left The broken hearts of yesterday But wait, be still, don't lose this way Affection now, for what you guess May be something more, could be less Accept my love, live for today.58
3075631487MetaphorDef: A figure of speech in which an expression is used to refer to something that it does not literally denote in order to suggest a similarity. Ex: We are the trees whom shaking fastens more59
3075633970MeterDef:A regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry Ex:That time l of year l thou mayst l in me l behold60
3075637705MetonymyDef: A figure of speech in which one word or phrase is substituted for another with which it is closely associated (such as "crown" for "royalty"). Ex: The orders came directly from the White House61
3075644621Mock EpicDef: A parody of traditional epic form. It usually treats a frivolous topic with extreme seriousness, using conventions such as invocations to the Muse, action-packed battle scenes, and accounts of heroic exploits. Ex: parody62
3075648882ModeDef: The major types of written discourse: persuasive, expository, narrative; descriptive Ex: rhetoric63
3075653981MoodDef: Feeling or atmosphere that a writer creates for the reader Ex:Environment64
3075658972MoralDef: A lesson a work of literature is teaching. Ex: learn to not bully from a book65
3075664536MotifDef: A recurring element, such as an image, theme, or type of incident. Ex: cross in native sun66
3075669048NarrationDef: A method of informing that explains something by recounting events Ex: native son, dreams67
3075674331Non-sequiturDef: (logic) a conclusion that does not follow from the premises Ex: jason in friday the thirteenth68
3075676875ObjectivityDef: An impersonal presentation of events and characters. It is a writer's attempt to remove himself or herself from any subjective, personal involvement in a story. Hard news journalism is frequently prized for its objectivity, although even fictional stories can be told without a writer rendering personal judgment. Ex: author removed his opinion from native son69
3244308751Onomatopoeiadef:sound words; words that are used to imitate the sounds they represent Ex:Bow! Pop! crash!70
3244316252OxymoronDef: A figure of speech that combines opposite or contradictory terms in a brief phrase. Ex:71
3244319605ParableDef: A short tale that teaches a moral; similar to but shorter than an allegory EX: Adam and Eve72
3244323927ParadoxDef:A statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity. Ex:"I'm lying to you right now."73
3244330791ParallelismDef: Recurrent syntactical similarity Ex:Ferocious dragons breathing fire and wicked sorcerers casting their spells do their harm by night in the forest of Darkness.74
3244333577ParenthesisDef:a word, clause, or sentence inserted as an explanation or afterthought into a passage that is grammatically complete without it, in writing usually marked off by curved brackets, dashes, or commas. EX: "......."75
3244337442ParodyDef:A work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule. Ex: Taylor swift music76
3244340613PathosDef:A feeling of sympathy; a quality that arouses pity or tenderness. Ex: emotional appeal77
3244346650pedanticDef:An adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish. ex:78
3244350015personificationDef:An object or abstract idea given human qualities or human form (e.g., Flowers danced about the lawn.).79
3244355092point of veiwDef:In literature, the perspective from which a story is told. Ex:80
3244359159polyptotonDef:s the stylistic scheme in which words derived from the same root are repeated (such as "strong" and "strength"). A related stylistic device is antanaclasis, in which the same word is repeated, but each time with a different sense.81
3244362042first person narratorDef:A point of view in which a narrator, referred to as "I," who is a character in the story and relates the actions through his or her own perspective, also revealing his or her own thoughts Ex: I82
3244367204stream of conciousnessDef: a style of writing that portrays the inner (often chaotic) workings of a character's mind. ex:83
3244372608omniscientDef:omniscient 3rd person point of view where everything is revealed to the reader, such as character thoughts and feelings. ex:84
3244377945limited omniscentA Third person narrator who generally reports only what one character sees, and who only reports the thoughts of that one privileged character. Ex:85
3244380495objectiveFactual, related to reality or physical objects; not influenced by emotions, unbiased ex:86
3244385839polysyndetonDeliberate use of many conjunctions in close succession, especially where some might be omitted. Hemingway and the Bible both use extensively. Ex. "he ran and jumped and laughed for joy"87
3244390262protagonistChief character in a dramatic or narrative work, usually trying to accomplish some objective or working toward some goal. ex:88
3244399209Reductio ad AbsurdomDefinition: reduced the absurdity (logical argument to illogical) if everyone jumped off a bridge Ex:89
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AP Literature Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
5151501990diametricalexactly the opposite; contrary0
5151501991Phariseea member of an ancient Jewish sect, strict observance of the traditional law, sanctimonious; self- righteous, a hypocrite1
5151501992disseverdivide or separate2
5151501993carrionthe decaying flesh of a dead animal3
5151501994lambent(of light or fire) glowing, gleaming or flickering with a soft radiance, flickering, fluttering4
5151501995decrypublicly denounce, condemn, censure, vilify, lambaste5
5151501996repugnanceintense disgust, revulsion, abhorrence, loathing, aversion6
5151501997antipodethe direct opposite of something7
5151501998fidelityfaithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support8
5151501999meritocracygovernment by people selected based on ability9
5151502000retaliatoryto match evil with evil, to get revenge, to strike back10
5151502001incarnationa person who embodies in the flesh a deity, spirit or abstract quality11
5151502002cholerone of the 4 bodily humors (in medieval medicine), identified with bile; anger or irascibility12
5151502003vehemencethe display of strong feeling; passion, force, fervor, urgency, zeal13
5151502004inimicaltending to obstruct or harm, destructive, pernicious ruinous, unfriendly, hostile14
5151502005sequesterisolate or to hide away (someone or something)15
5151502006penultimatethe second to last16
5151502007sanctitythe state or quality of being holy, sacred or saintly17
5151502008besettrouble or threaten persistently beleaguer, torment, rack OR to be covered or studded with18
5151502009ambivalencehaving mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone19
5151502010paradigma typical example or pattern of something; a model20
5151502011intemperatehaving or showing a lack of self-control; immoderate, excessive unrestrained21
5151502012pivotalof crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else22
5151502013lamentabledeplorably bad or unsatisfactory; full of or expressing sorrow or23
5151502014subversiveseeking or intended to overthrow an established system or institution disruptive, inflammatory24
5151502015staturesomeone's height or the importance or reputation gained by ability or achievement25
5151502016derivativeimitative of the (usually art) work of another and usually disapproved of for that reason unoriginal26
5151502017incipientin an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop; a person developing into a specific type or role27
5151502018decorumbehavior in keeping with good taste and propriety28
5151502019reclusiveavoiding the company of other people; solitary, hermitic, eremitical, cloistered29
5151502020cloisterkeeping away from the outside world; sheltered like a courtyard, a cloister is also a monastery30
5151502021ignobledishonorable, unworthy, dastardly, degenerate, sordid31
5151502022ignominiousdeserving or causing public disgrace or shame; humiliating, embarrassing, mortifying32
5151502023ferventhaving or displaying a passionate intensity; vehement, fervid, ardent33
5151502024impecunioushaving little or no money; penniless, indigent, insolvent, destitute34
5151502025evangelicalevangelical the teaching of the gospel or the Christian religion; biblical, scriptural; fundamentalist35
5151502026consumption (tuberculosis)bacterial infectious disease, especially impacting the lungs36
5151502027precocious(a child) having developed abilities or proclivities earlier than most; gifted, quick37
5151502028proclivitya tendency to choose or do something regularly; inclination, propensity, bent, penchant, predisposition38
5151502029sagaa long story of heroic achievement, especially a medieval prose narrative of old Norse or Old Icelandic39
5151502030juveniliaworks produced by an author or artist while still young40
5151502031Byronica hero in works of Lord Byron, like himself melancholy, rebellious, distressed by a terrible wrong he committed in the past.41
5151502032Gothicelaborate architecture; fiction using horror, death and at times romance, dark and picturesque scenery, genteel, or gentrified42
5151502033gentrypeople of a good social position just below nobility43
5151502034gentrifiedmake someone or his life more refined or dignified44
5151502035genteelgenteel polite, refined, or respectable, often in an affected way, decorous, courteous, seemly45
5151502036assiduityconstant or close attention to what one is doing46
5151502037insipidlacking flavor, or vigor or interest47
5151502038mirea stretch of swampy or boggy ground/ a situation of difficulty, distress or embarrassment48
5151502039torpidsluggish in functioning or act49
5151502040biliousill-tempered, spiteful50
5151502041antipathya deep-seated feeling of dislike; aversion51
5151502042imprudencenot showing care for the consequences of an action; rash52
5151502043pungentsomething that has a sharply strong taste or smell, stinky53
5151502044trifleSomething of little value, substance, or importance54
5151502045consecrationto make or declare sacred55
5151502046opprobriumharsh criticism or censure56
5151502047revileabusive, angry, insulting criticism57
5151502048consternationa sudden, alarming amazement, leading to utter confusion; dismay58
5151502049tumultconfusion or disorder59
5151502050noxiousharmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant60
5151502051sanguineoptimistic or positive, especially in a bad situation61
5151502052artificeclever, cunning ways, especially as used to trick or deceive62
5151502053parleyto conference with the opposing side to discuss terms63
5151502054cadencea modulation or inflection of the voice; intonation64
5151502055insuperablea difficulty or obstacle, impossible to overcome65
5151502056aversiona strong dislike or disinclination66
5151502057audaciouswillingness to take surprisingly bold risks, presumptuous, cheeky, irreverent67
5151502058capriciouswhimsical, impulsive68
5151502059usuriouscharging illegal or exorbitant rates of interest for the use of money69
5151502060preternaturalbeyond what is normal or natural70
5151502061refectorya room used for communal meals, especially in an educational or religious institution71
5151502062truculenteager or quick to argue or fight; aggressively defiant72
5151502063amelioratemake better or more tolerable73
5151502064lassitudea tired feeling or laziness, usually caused by depression or being overworked74
5151502065stagnantnot moving75
5151502066occludeto obstruct, close off or block76
5151502067whimsyplayfully quaint or fanciful behavior, odd77
5151502068curatea member of the clergy engaged as assistant to a vicar, rector, or parish priest78
5151502069parsonagethe residence of a member of the clergy, provided by the parish or church79
5151502070bildungsromana novel dealing with one person's formative years or spiritual education80
5151502071trajectorythe path followed by a projectile flying or an object moving under the action of given forces, path81
5151502072motifa distinctive feature or dominant idea in an artistic or literary composition; theme82
5151502073leitmotif (LIGHT mo teef)a recurrent theme in music or literary piece, focused on a person, idea or situation83
5151502074meritocracya government, or ruling or influential class selected on the basis of their education or ability84
5151502075regentsomeone appointed to administer a country because the monarch is a minor or is absent or incapacitated85
5151502076sycophantone who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain an advantage, yes-man, bootlicker, toady86
5151502077obsequiousexcessively obedient or attentive87
5151502078caviller (cavalier)showing a lack of proper concern; offhand88
5151502079vignettea brief evocative description, account, or episode89
5151502080eventideevening90
5151502081torpidmentally or physically inactive; lethargic91
5151502082diffidencemodesty, shyness from a lack of self-confidence, modesty, meekness, insecurity92
5151502083intimateimply or hint93
5151502084antipathya deep-seated dislike or aversion94
5151502085pungentsharply strong taste or smell95
5151502086subjoinedadd at the end of a speech or text96
5151502087incredulousunwilling or unable to believe something97
5151502088quailedto feel or show fear or apprehension, cower, cringe, flinch, recoil98
5151502089turbidcloudy liquid or confused meaning of effect99
5151502090aperturean opening, hole or gap100
5151502091diversolder spelling diverse, meaning of varying types; several101
5151502092effluviaa slight or invisible exhalation or vapor, especially one that is disagreeable or noxious.102
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AP language vocab Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
3340824717pidgin languagea simplified version of lingua franca for 2 dif. countries communication0
3340824718lingua francaa language used in trade by people with different native languages1
3340824719extinct languageslanguages once used by people in life but not anymore2
3340824720isolated languageslanguage unrelated to any others and is not part of a language family3
3340824721creolized languagelanguage that forms from a mix of colonizers and indigenous languages of people being dominated4
3340824722standard languagelanguage used by a group of people in public discourse5
3340824723isoglossboundary that separates regions with different languages that predominate6
3340824724dialectregional variety of a language7
3340824725logogramssymbol that represents a word instead of a sound8
3340824726language grouplanguages in a branch that share a common origin and are slightly different9
3340824727language branchlanguages that relate through a common ancestor from years ago and has written records10
3340824728language familylanguages related through a common ancestor but not recorded on records11
3340824729official languagelanguage that is used within the government for business and documents12
3340824730literary traditionlanguage that is written and spoken13
3340824731languagecommunication through speech of sounds understood by a group for the same meaning14
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AP literature terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
6662269424allegorystory or poem that can be used to reveal a hidden meaning0
6662269425alliterationbeginning of same letter or sound in closely connected words1
6662269426allusionindirect of passing reference to a piece of literary or historical significance2
6662269427anaphorarepetition in first part of a sentence , to have an artistic meaning3
6662269429apostrophefigure of speech used to adresss an imaginary character4
6662269430approximate rhymewords in rhyming pattern that sound alike5
6662269431asidewhen a character's dialogue is spoken but not heard by other actors on the stage6
6662269432assonancerepetition of vowel sounds7
6662269433blank versepoetry written in meter without an ending rhyme8
6662269434cacophonyblend of unharmonious sounds9
6662269435caesurapause in the middle of a line10
6662269436catharsisthe release of emotions through art (emotional cleanse)11
6662269443comedydrama that is amusing or funny12
6662269445connotationsecondary meaning to a word13
6662269446consonancerepetition of same consonant in words close together14
6662269447couplettwo rhyming lines in a verse15
6662269448denotationthe literal meaning of a word16
6662269449denouementfinal outcome of the story17
6662269450deus ex machinaresolution of a plot by chance or coincidence18
6662269451didactic writingwriting with a primary purpose to teach or preach19
6662269453double rhymerhyme where the repeated vowel is in the second last syllable of words involved (ex; born scorn)20
6662269455end rhymerhymes occurring at the end of line21
6662269458epiphanywhen a character receives a spiritual insight into they life22
6662269459euphonysmooth choice and arrangement of sounds23
6662269462feminine rhymelines rhymed by their final two syllables24
6662269465footbasic unit in the scansion or measurement of verse , stressed and un stressed syllables25
6662269467free versePoetry that does not have a regular meter or rhyme scheme26
6662269468hamartiatragic flaw which causes a character's downfall27
6662269471internal rhymeA word inside a line rhymes with another word on the same line28
6662269472ironyA contrast between expectation and reality29
6662269473verbal ironyA figure of speech in which what is said is the opposite of what is meant30
6662269474dramatic ironyIrony that occurs when the meaning of the situation is understood by the audience but not by the characters in the play.31
6662269475situational ironyrefers to an occurrence that is contrary to what is expected or intended32
6662269477masculine rhymeA rhyme ending on the final stressed syllable33
6662269478melodramaa play based upon a dramatic plot and developed sensationally34
6662269480meterA regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry35
6662269481metonymyA figure of speech in which something is referred to by using the name of something that is associated with it36
6662269484octave8 line stanza37
6662269485onomatopoeiaA word that imitates the sound it represents.38
6662269486hyperboleA figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humor39
6662269487oxymoronA figure of speech that combines opposite or contradictory terms in a brief phrase.40
6662269488paradoxA contradiction or dilemma41
6662269492point of viewThe perspective from which a story is told42
6662269493omniscient point of viewThe point of view where the narrator knows everything about the characters and their problems - told in the 3rd person.43
6662269494third person limited point of viewnarrator tells the story from only one character's pov44
6662269495first person point of viewa character in the story is actually telling the story himself/herself45
6662269496objective point of viewa narrator who is totally impersonal and objective tells the story, with no comment on any characters or events.46
6662269498quatrainA four line stanza47
6662269499rhythmA regularly recurring sequence of events or actions.48
6662269500rhyme schemeA regular pattern of rhyming words in a poem49
6662269501rising actionEvents leading up to the climax50
6662269502sarcasmthe use of irony to mock or convey contempt51
6662269503satireA literary work that criticizes human misconduct and ridicules vices, stupidities, and follies.52
6662269505sestet6 line stanza53
6662269508soliloquyA long speech expressing the thoughts of a character alone on stage54
6662269509sonnet14 line poem55
6662269511stream of consciousnessprivate thoughts of a character without commentary56
6662269514synecdochea figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa57
6662269515synesthesiadescribing one kind of sensation in terms of another ("a loud color", "a sweet sound")58
6662269519toneAttitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character59
6662269520tragedyA serious form of drama dealing with the downfall of a heroic or noble character60
6662269521truncationUtilizing a melody with part of the end omitted.61
6662269522understandmentthe deliberate representation of something as lesser in magnitude than it actually is; a deliberate under-emphasis62
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