Literary and Rhetorical Terms Literary and Rhetorical Terms Collected from past AP Multiple-choice and Essay Tests.

Literary and Literary and Rhetorical TermsRhetorical Terms

Collected from past Collected from past

AP Multiple-choice and Essay AP Multiple-choice and Essay TestsTests

Abstract DictionAbstract Diction

Language that denotes ideas, Language that denotes ideas, emotions, conditions, or concepts emotions, conditions, or concepts that are intangible-impenetrable, that are intangible-impenetrable, incredible, inscrutable, incredible, inscrutable, inconceivable, unfathomableinconceivable, unfathomable

ad hominemad hominem

Latin for “against the man.”Latin for “against the man.” Attacking the person instead of the Attacking the person instead of the

argument proposed by that individual.argument proposed by that individual. An argument directed to the personality, An argument directed to the personality,

prejudices, previous words and actions of prejudices, previous words and actions of an opponent rather than an appeal to pure an opponent rather than an appeal to pure reason.reason.

Example: “Rush Limbaugh is a big fat Example: “Rush Limbaugh is a big fat idiot,” writes left-wing comedian Al idiot,” writes left-wing comedian Al Franken.Franken.

adverbial phrasesadverbial phrases

First, let’s define an adverb: word First, let’s define an adverb: word that modifies a verb, verb form, that modifies a verb, verb form, adjective or another adverb.adjective or another adverb.

Thus, an adverbial phrases is a group Thus, an adverbial phrases is a group of words that modifies, as a single of words that modifies, as a single unit, a verb, verb form, adjective or unit, a verb, verb form, adjective or another adverb.another adverb.

Example: He lost the first game Example: He lost the first game due due to carelessnessto carelessness. .

allegoryallegory

A fiction or nonfiction narrative, in which A fiction or nonfiction narrative, in which characters, things, and events represent characters, things, and events represent qualities, moral values, or concepts.qualities, moral values, or concepts.

Playing out of the narrative is designed to Playing out of the narrative is designed to reveal an abstraction or truth.reveal an abstraction or truth.

Characters and other elements may be Characters and other elements may be symbolic of the ideas referred to in the symbolic of the ideas referred to in the allegory.allegory.

Example: Example: The Pilgrim’s ProgressThe Pilgrim’s Progress by John by John Bunyan or Bunyan or A Scarlet LetterA Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel by Nathaniel Hawthorne.Hawthorne.

AlliterationAlliteration

The repetition of the same consonant The repetition of the same consonant sound, especially at the beginning of sound, especially at the beginning of words. For example, “Five miles words. For example, “Five miles meandering with a mazy motion” meandering with a mazy motion” Kubla KhanKubla Khan by S.T. Coleridge by S.T. Coleridge

allusionallusion

A reference, explicit or indirect, to a A reference, explicit or indirect, to a person, place, or event, or to another person, place, or event, or to another literary work or passage. literary work or passage.

Generally speaking, the writer assumes Generally speaking, the writer assumes the educated reader will recognize the the educated reader will recognize the reference. reference.

Often humorous, but not always. Often humorous, but not always. Establishes a connection between writer Establishes a connection between writer

and reader, or to make a subtle point.and reader, or to make a subtle point. Example: “In gulfs enchanted, where the Example: “In gulfs enchanted, where the

Siren Siren sings.” sings.”

AmbiguityAmbiguity

Use of language where the meaning Use of language where the meaning is unclear or has two or more is unclear or has two or more possible interpretations or meanings. possible interpretations or meanings. It could be created through a It could be created through a weakness in the way the writer has weakness in the way the writer has expressed himself or herself, but expressed himself or herself, but often it is used by writers quite often it is used by writers quite deliberately to create layers of deliberately to create layers of meaning in the mind of the reader. meaning in the mind of the reader.

AmbivalenceAmbivalence

This indicates more than one This indicates more than one possible attitude is being displayed possible attitude is being displayed by the writer towards a character, by the writer towards a character, theme, or idea, etc. theme, or idea, etc.

AnachronismAnachronism

Something that is historically Something that is historically inaccurate, for example the inaccurate, for example the reference to a clock chiming in reference to a clock chiming in Shakespeare’s Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.Julius Caesar.

AnadiplosisAnadiplosis

Last word of one line is the first word Last word of one line is the first word of the next lineof the next line

analogyanalogy A comparison to a directly parallel case, arguing A comparison to a directly parallel case, arguing

that a claim reasonable for one case is that a claim reasonable for one case is reasonable for the analogous case.reasonable for the analogous case.

A comparison made between two things that A comparison made between two things that may initially seem to have little in common but may initially seem to have little in common but can offer fresh insights when compared. can offer fresh insights when compared.

Used for illustration and/or argument. Used for illustration and/or argument. Example: “We advance in years somewhat in the Example: “We advance in years somewhat in the

manner of an invading army in a barren land; the manner of an invading army in a barren land; the age that we have reached, as the phrase goes, age that we have reached, as the phrase goes, we but hold with an outpost, and still keep open we but hold with an outpost, and still keep open our communications with the extreme rear and our communications with the extreme rear and first beginnings of the march.” –Robert Louis first beginnings of the march.” –Robert Louis Stevenson, “On Marriage.”Stevenson, “On Marriage.”

anaphoraanaphora Repetition of a word, phrase or clause at the Repetition of a word, phrase or clause at the

beginning of two or more sentences in a row.beginning of two or more sentences in a row. Deliberate form of repetition to reinforce Deliberate form of repetition to reinforce

point or to make it more coherent.point or to make it more coherent. Example: In the Example: In the Declaration of Declaration of

IndependenceIndependence, Thomas Jefferson places the , Thomas Jefferson places the subject, “He,” at the beginning of twenty subject, “He,” at the beginning of twenty accusations in a row, each as a single accusations in a row, each as a single paragraph, to put the weight of paragraph, to put the weight of responsibility for the problems with King responsibility for the problems with King George III, whom Jefferson refers to in the George III, whom Jefferson refers to in the third person. third person.

Anastrophe (Inversion)Anastrophe (Inversion)

Inversion of the normal syntactical Inversion of the normal syntactical structure of a sentence. Ex. “Ready structure of a sentence. Ex. “Ready are you?” are you?”

AntecedentAntecedent

The word, phrase, or clause referred The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronounto by a pronoun

AnthropomorphismAnthropomorphism

The endowment of something that is The endowment of something that is not human with human not human with human characteristics. characteristics.

anticlimaxanticlimax

In writing, denotes a writer’s In writing, denotes a writer’s intentional drop from the serious and intentional drop from the serious and elevated to the trivial and lowly, in elevated to the trivial and lowly, in order to achieve a comic or satiric order to achieve a comic or satiric effect.effect.

An event (as at the end of a series) An event (as at the end of a series) that is strikingly less important than that is strikingly less important than what has preceded it.what has preceded it.

The transition towards this ending. The transition towards this ending.

Antimetabole Antimetabole

A sentence strategy in which the A sentence strategy in which the arrangement of ideas in the second arrangement of ideas in the second clause is a reversal o the first; it adds clause is a reversal o the first; it adds power to the sentence.power to the sentence.

antithesisantithesis A balancing of two opposite or contrasting A balancing of two opposite or contrasting

words, phrases or clauses.words, phrases or clauses. Example: “. . .one seeing more where the Example: “. . .one seeing more where the

other sees less, one seeing black where other sees less, one seeing black where the other sees white, one seeing big where the other sees white, one seeing big where the other sees small. . . .”the other sees small. . . .”

Example: Shakespeare’s Example: Shakespeare’s MacbethMacbeth, Act I, , Act I, Scene I, Line 11: “Fair is foul and foul is Scene I, Line 11: “Fair is foul and foul is fair.”fair.”

Oxymoron: rhetorical antithesis, Oxymoron: rhetorical antithesis, juxtaposing two contradictory terms like juxtaposing two contradictory terms like “wise fool” or “eloquent silent.”“wise fool” or “eloquent silent.”

anecdoteanecdote

A brief recounting of a relevant A brief recounting of a relevant episode.episode.

Used in fiction and nonfiction.Used in fiction and nonfiction. Develops point or injects humor.Develops point or injects humor. Commonly used as an illustration for an Commonly used as an illustration for an

abstract point being made.abstract point being made. Example: Mark Twain is famous for his Example: Mark Twain is famous for his

short anecdotes about growing up in short anecdotes about growing up in Missouri intertwined with humor and an Missouri intertwined with humor and an abstract truth about human nature.abstract truth about human nature.

AphorismAphorism

A terse statement of known A terse statement of known authorship that expresses a general authorship that expresses a general truth or moral principletruth or moral principle

ApostropheApostrophe An interruption in a poem or An interruption in a poem or

narrative so that the speaker or narrative so that the speaker or writer can address a dead or absent writer can address a dead or absent person or particular audience or person or particular audience or notion directly. “Oh Time thou must notion directly. “Oh Time thou must untangle this not I” Viola in untangle this not I” Viola in Twelfth Twelfth NightNight

appositiveappositive Nonessential word groups (phrases and clauses) Nonessential word groups (phrases and clauses)

that follow nouns and identify or explain them.that follow nouns and identify or explain them. Example: My aunt, Example: My aunt, who lives in Montanawho lives in Montana, is taking , is taking

surfing lessons in Hawaii.surfing lessons in Hawaii. The sentence above is a “nonrestrictive clause,” The sentence above is a “nonrestrictive clause,”

because it is not necessary to the meaning of the because it is not necessary to the meaning of the sentence and it can easily be put in another sentence and it can easily be put in another sentence and still make sense. Thus, it is set off by sentence and still make sense. Thus, it is set off by commas.commas.

A restrictive clause also follows a noun but is A restrictive clause also follows a noun but is necessary to the meaning of the sentence. It necessary to the meaning of the sentence. It is notis not an appositive. Thus, no commas. “That” always an appositive. Thus, no commas. “That” always signals restrictive.signals restrictive.

Example: People Example: People who can speak more than one who can speak more than one language arelanguage are multilingual. multilingual.

Example: Please repair all the windows Example: Please repair all the windows that are that are brokenbroken..

ArchaicArchaic

Language that is old-fashioned –not Language that is old-fashioned –not completely obsolete but no longer in completely obsolete but no longer in current use. current use.

archetypearchetype Meaning: model, example, standard, original, classic.Meaning: model, example, standard, original, classic. Elemental patterns of ritual, mythology and folklore Elemental patterns of ritual, mythology and folklore

that recur in the legends, ceremonies and stories of the that recur in the legends, ceremonies and stories of the most diverse cultures.most diverse cultures.

In literature, applies to narrative designs, character In literature, applies to narrative designs, character types, or images which are said to be identifiable in a types, or images which are said to be identifiable in a wide variety of works of literature, as well as myths, wide variety of works of literature, as well as myths, and even ritualized modes of social behavior.and even ritualized modes of social behavior.

Example: Over 300 different versions of the Cinderella Example: Over 300 different versions of the Cinderella tale exist from around the world, and all of them have tale exist from around the world, and all of them have certain archetypal characteristics: wicked step-mother, certain archetypal characteristics: wicked step-mother, mean sisters, handsome prince who rescues the girl. mean sisters, handsome prince who rescues the girl. These common characteristics are qualities that strike These common characteristics are qualities that strike a strong emotional reaction in all who own the story.a strong emotional reaction in all who own the story.

assonanceassonance

Repetition of a vowel sound within two or Repetition of a vowel sound within two or more words, usually with different more words, usually with different consonant sounds either before or after consonant sounds either before or after the same vowel sounds.the same vowel sounds.

Example: “Once upon a midnight Example: “Once upon a midnight drearydreary, , while I pondered, while I pondered, weakweak and and weary,weary,” Edgar ” Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven.” Allan Poe’s “The Raven.”

Example: “Thou foster child of silence and Example: “Thou foster child of silence and slow time,” John Keat’s “Ode on a Grecian slow time,” John Keat’s “Ode on a Grecian Urn.”Urn.”

asyndetonasyndeton

Sentence where commas are used Sentence where commas are used with no conjunctions to separate a with no conjunctions to separate a series of words.series of words.

Gives equal weight to each part.Gives equal weight to each part. Speeds up the flow of the sentence.Speeds up the flow of the sentence. Formula: X, Y, Z. As opposed to X, Y, Formula: X, Y, Z. As opposed to X, Y,

and Z.and Z. See See polysyndetonpolysyndeton for variation. for variation.

AtmosphereAtmosphere

The prevailing mood created by a The prevailing mood created by a piece of writing. piece of writing.

Balanced SentenceBalanced Sentence

The phrases or clauses balance each The phrases or clauses balance each other by virtue of their likeness or other by virtue of their likeness or structure, meaning, or length. Ex. structure, meaning, or length. Ex. “He maketh me to lie down in green “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters.” still waters.”

BalladBallad

A narrative poem that tells a story A narrative poem that tells a story (traditional ballads were songs) (traditional ballads were songs) usually in a straightforward way. The usually in a straightforward way. The theme is often tragic or contains a theme is often tragic or contains a whimsical, supernatural, or whimsical, supernatural, or fantastical element. fantastical element.

bathosbathos

Noun.Noun. Etymology: Greek.Etymology: Greek. A sudden drop from the sublime or A sudden drop from the sublime or

elevated to the ludicrous.elevated to the ludicrous. An anticlimax.An anticlimax. Example: Within the last decade, the Example: Within the last decade, the

Catholic community in North America has Catholic community in North America has faced its greatest bathos as they wrestle faced its greatest bathos as they wrestle with the dozens of arrests and convictions with the dozens of arrests and convictions of priests for child molestation.of priests for child molestation.

Blank VerseBlank Verse

Unrhymed poetry that adheres to a Unrhymed poetry that adheres to a strict pattern in that each line is an strict pattern in that each line is an iambic pentameter (a ten-syllable iambic pentameter (a ten-syllable line with five stresses). It is close to line with five stresses). It is close to the natural rhythm of English speech the natural rhythm of English speech or prose, and is used a great deal by or prose, and is used a great deal by many writers including Shakespeare many writers including Shakespeare and Milton.and Milton.

bombastbombast Originally meant “cotton stuffing.”Originally meant “cotton stuffing.” Adopted to signify verbose and inflated Adopted to signify verbose and inflated

diction that is disproportionate to the diction that is disproportionate to the matter it expresses.matter it expresses.

Popular with the heroic drama of the late Popular with the heroic drama of the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries.seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries.

Although a century after the height of this Although a century after the height of this style, James Fenimore Cooper’s style, James Fenimore Cooper’s Leatherstocking SagasLeatherstocking Sagas ( (Last of the Last of the MohicansMohicans for example) are typical of for example) are typical of bombastic speeches.bombastic speeches.

bowdlerizebowdlerize

Named after Thomas Bowdler, who Named after Thomas Bowdler, who tidied up his tidied up his Family ShakespeareFamily Shakespeare in in 1815 by omitting whatever is unfit to 1815 by omitting whatever is unfit to be read by a gentleman in the be read by a gentleman in the presence of a lady.presence of a lady.

Means to expurgate from a work any Means to expurgate from a work any passages considered indecent or passages considered indecent or indelicate.indelicate.

High school and some college texts High school and some college texts are guilty of this censuring. are guilty of this censuring.

CacaphonyCacaphony

Harsh clashing, or dissonant sounds, Harsh clashing, or dissonant sounds, often produced by combinations of often produced by combinations of words that require a clipped, words that require a clipped, explosive delivery or words that explosive delivery or words that contain a number of plosive contain a number of plosive consonants. Opposite of Euphony.consonants. Opposite of Euphony.

CaesuraCaesura

A conscious break in a line of poetry. A conscious break in a line of poetry.

CaricatureCaricature

A character described through the A character described through the exaggeration of a small number of exaggeration of a small number of features that he or she possesses. features that he or she possesses.

CatharsisCatharsis

A purging of the emotions which A purging of the emotions which takes place at the end of a tragedy.takes place at the end of a tragedy.

Chiasmus/AntimetaboleChiasmus/Antimetabole

Arrangement of repeated thoughts in Arrangement of repeated thoughts in the pattern of X Y Y X.the pattern of X Y Y X.

Usually short and summarizes the main Usually short and summarizes the main idea.idea.

Example: From Yeats’ “An Irish Airman Example: From Yeats’ “An Irish Airman Foresees His Death,” the poet writes:Foresees His Death,” the poet writes:

““The years to come seemed waste of breath, The years to come seemed waste of breath,

A waste of breath the years behind.”A waste of breath the years behind.”

ClichéCliché

A phrase, idea, or image that has A phrase, idea, or image that has been used so much that it has lost been used so much that it has lost much of its original meaning, impact, much of its original meaning, impact, and freshness.and freshness.

ClauseClause

A grammatical unit that contains A grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verbboth a subject and a verb

coin a verbcoin a verb This is not a literary term, but it confused more This is not a literary term, but it confused more

than one student. So, I am including it here.than one student. So, I am including it here. coincoin (intransitive verb) means “to invent.” (intransitive verb) means “to invent.” Thus, to “coin a verb” is to “invent a verb.”Thus, to “coin a verb” is to “invent a verb.” Shakespeare “coined” more than 1,700 words by Shakespeare “coined” more than 1,700 words by

changing nouns to verbs, making verbs adjectives, changing nouns to verbs, making verbs adjectives, making new combination of words paired together, making new combination of words paired together, etc.etc.

Example: Example: Olivia: “There lies your way, due west.”Olivia: “There lies your way, due west.”Viola:Viola: “Then westward ho!” “Then westward ho!”

From Shakespeare’s From Shakespeare’s Twelfth NightTwelfth Night, Act III, Scene I, Line 135., Act III, Scene I, Line 135. Some words Shakespeare coined: advertising, Some words Shakespeare coined: advertising,

alligator, anchovy, countless, gust, investment, alligator, anchovy, countless, gust, investment, obscene, puke, puppy dog, tranquil, zany.obscene, puke, puppy dog, tranquil, zany.

ColloquialColloquial

Ordinary, everyday speech and Ordinary, everyday speech and languagelanguage

Colloquial expressions are non-Colloquial expressions are non-standard, often regional, ways of standard, often regional, ways of using language appropriate to using language appropriate to informal or conversational speech informal or conversational speech and writing. Ex. “ya’ll”and writing. Ex. “ya’ll”

ComedyComedy

Originally simply a play or other work Originally simply a play or other work which ended happily. Now we use this which ended happily. Now we use this term to describe something that is term to describe something that is funny and which makes us laugh. In funny and which makes us laugh. In literature the comedy is not necessarily literature the comedy is not necessarily a lightweight form. A play like a lightweight form. A play like Shakespeare’s Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, Measure for Measure, for example, is, for the most part a for example, is, for the most part a serious and dark play but as it ends serious and dark play but as it ends happily, it is often described as a happily, it is often described as a comedy. comedy.

common knowledgecommon knowledge

Shared beliefs or assumptions Shared beliefs or assumptions between the reader and the audience.between the reader and the audience.

Used to argue that if something is Used to argue that if something is widely believed, readers should widely believed, readers should accept it.accept it.

A self-evident, obvious truth, A self-evident, obvious truth, especially one too obvious to mention especially one too obvious to mention is a is a truismtruism..

Complex SentenceComplex Sentence

Contains an independent clause and Contains an independent clause and one or more subordinate clause one or more subordinate clause “Because the singer was tired, she “Because the singer was tired, she went straight to bed after the went straight to bed after the concert”concert”

Compound SentenceCompound Sentence

Contains two independent clauses Contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolonor a semicolon

Compound-Complex Compound-Complex SentenceSentence

Contains two or more independent Contains two or more independent clauses and one or more subordinate clauses and one or more subordinate clauses. Ex. clauses. Ex. The singer bowed while the audience The singer bowed while the audience applauded, but she sang no applauded, but she sang no encores.”encores.”

ConceitConceit

An elaborate, extended, and An elaborate, extended, and sometimes surprising comparison sometimes surprising comparison between things that, at first sight, do between things that, at first sight, do not have much in common. not have much in common.

Concrete DictionConcrete Diction

Specific words that describe physical Specific words that describe physical qualities or conditionsqualities or conditions

ConnotationConnotation

An implication or association An implication or association attached to a word or phrase. A attached to a word or phrase. A connotation is suggested or felt connotation is suggested or felt rather than being explicit. rather than being explicit.

ContrastContrast

A traditional rhetorical strategy A traditional rhetorical strategy based on the assumption that a based on the assumption that a subject may be shown more clearly subject may be shown more clearly by pointing out ways in which it is by pointing out ways in which it is unlike another subject. unlike another subject.

consonanceconsonance Repetition of a consonant sound within two Repetition of a consonant sound within two

or more words in close proximity.or more words in close proximity. Sometimes refers to repetition of consonant Sometimes refers to repetition of consonant

sounds in the middle or at the end of words.sounds in the middle or at the end of words. Example: “And Example: “And allall the air a the air a solemn stillnesssolemn stillness

holdsholds.” from Thomas Gray’s “Elegy Written .” from Thomas Gray’s “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard.”in a Country Churchyard.”

Sometimes refers to Sometimes refers to slant rhymeslant rhyme or or partial partial rhymerhyme: Initial and final consonants are the : Initial and final consonants are the same but the vowels are different.same but the vowels are different.

Example: Example: litterlitter and and letterletter, or , or greengreen and and groangroan..

conventionalconventional

Following certain conventions, or Following certain conventions, or traditional techniques of writing. traditional techniques of writing.

Over-reliance on conventions may Over-reliance on conventions may result in a lack of originality.result in a lack of originality.

Example: Five-paragraph theme is a Example: Five-paragraph theme is a conventionalconventional format of argument. format of argument.

CoupletCouplet

Two consecutive lines of verse that Two consecutive lines of verse that rhymerhyme

Declarative SentenceDeclarative Sentence

Makes a statementMakes a statement

deconstructiondeconstruction

A critical approach that debunks A critical approach that debunks single definitions of meaning based single definitions of meaning based upon the instability of language.upon the instability of language.

Deconstructionist: reexamines Deconstructionist: reexamines literary conventions in light of the literary conventions in light of the belief that because of the instability belief that because of the instability of language, the text has already of language, the text has already dismantled itself.dismantled itself.

DenotationDenotation

Exact, literal definition of a word Exact, literal definition of a word independent of any emotional independent of any emotional association or secondary meaningassociation or secondary meaning

DenouementDenouement

The ending of a play, novel, or drama The ending of a play, novel, or drama where “all is revealed” and the plot is where “all is revealed” and the plot is unraveled unraveled

DialectDialect

Nonstandard subgroup of a language Nonstandard subgroup of a language with its own vocabulary and with its own vocabulary and grammatical features; writers often grammatical features; writers often use regional dialects or dialects that use regional dialects or dialects that reveal a person’s economic or social reveal a person’s economic or social classclass

diatribediatribe

From Latin From Latin diatribadiatriba meaning “to spend meaning “to spend time,” or “to wear away.”time,” or “to wear away.”

Archaic meaning: a prolonged discourse.Archaic meaning: a prolonged discourse. A bitter and abusive speech or writing.A bitter and abusive speech or writing. Ironical or satirical criticism.Ironical or satirical criticism. Example: The challenging candidate Example: The challenging candidate

shouted his diatribe against the incumbent shouted his diatribe against the incumbent platform to several thousand supporters in platform to several thousand supporters in attendance.attendance.

dictiondiction

Means “word choice.”Means “word choice.” Refers to word choice as a reflection of Refers to word choice as a reflection of

style.style. Different types and arrangements of Different types and arrangements of

words have significant effects on words have significant effects on meaning.meaning.

Purpose, tone, point of view, persona, Purpose, tone, point of view, persona, verve, color, all are affected by verve, color, all are affected by diction.diction.

didacticdidactic Fiction or nonfiction that teaches a specific Fiction or nonfiction that teaches a specific

lesson or moral or provides a model of lesson or moral or provides a model of correct behavior or thinking.correct behavior or thinking.

Designed to expound a branch of Designed to expound a branch of theoretical, moral, or practical knowledge, theoretical, moral, or practical knowledge, or else to instantiate, in an impressive and or else to instantiate, in an impressive and persuasive imaginative or fictional form, a persuasive imaginative or fictional form, a moral, religious, or philosophical theme or moral, religious, or philosophical theme or doctrine.doctrine.

Example: “On the Nature of Things” by Example: “On the Nature of Things” by Lucretius; “Essay on Man” by Pope; “Faerie Lucretius; “Essay on Man” by Pope; “Faerie Queene” by Spencer; “The Pilgrim’s Queene” by Spencer; “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by Bunyan.Progress” by Bunyan.

Dramatic MonologueDramatic Monologue

A poem or prose piece in which a A poem or prose piece in which a character addresses an audience. character addresses an audience. Often the monologue is complete in Often the monologue is complete in itself, as in Alan Bennett’s itself, as in Alan Bennett’s Talking Talking Heads.Heads.

double entendre double entendre

A corruption of a French phrase A corruption of a French phrase meaning "double meaning." meaning "double meaning."

The term is used to indicate a word The term is used to indicate a word or phrase that is deliberately or phrase that is deliberately ambiguous, especially when one of ambiguous, especially when one of the meanings is risqué or improper.the meanings is risqué or improper.

Example: The Elizabethan usage of Example: The Elizabethan usage of the verb "die," which refers both to the verb "die," which refers both to death and to orgasm.death and to orgasm.

either-or reasoningeither-or reasoning

Reducing an argument or issue to Reducing an argument or issue to two polar opposites and ignoring any two polar opposites and ignoring any alternatives.alternatives.

ElegyElegy

A meditative poem, usually sad and A meditative poem, usually sad and reflective in nature. Sometimes, reflective in nature. Sometimes, though not always, it is concerned though not always, it is concerned with the theme of death. with the theme of death.

EllipsisEllipsis

The deliberate omission of a word or The deliberate omission of a word or words that are readily implied by the words that are readily implied by the context; it creates and elegant or context; it creates and elegant or daring economy of words. daring economy of words.

EmpathyEmpathy

A feeling on the part of the reader of A feeling on the part of the reader of sharing the particular experience sharing the particular experience being described by the character or being described by the character or writer.writer.

emotional appealemotional appeal

Appealing to the emotions of the Appealing to the emotions of the reader in order to excite and involve reader in order to excite and involve them in the argument.them in the argument.

Makes use of Makes use of pathospathos: the quality in : the quality in an experience, narrative, literary an experience, narrative, literary work, etc., which arouses profound work, etc., which arouses profound feelings of compassion or sorrow.feelings of compassion or sorrow.

PathosPathos is Greek for “suffering.” is Greek for “suffering.”

End stoppingEnd stopping

A verse line with a pause or a stop at A verse line with a pause or a stop at the end of it. the end of it.

EnjambmentEnjambment

A line of verse that flows on into the A line of verse that flows on into the next line without a pause.next line without a pause.

EpanalepsisEpanalepsis

The repetition at the end of a clause The repetition at the end of a clause of the word that occurred at the of the word that occurred at the beginning of the clause; it tends to beginning of the clause; it tends to make the sentence or clause in make the sentence or clause in which it occurs stand apart from its which it occurs stand apart from its surroundings. surroundings.

EpicEpic

A long narrative poem, written in an A long narrative poem, written in an elevated style and usually dealing elevated style and usually dealing with a heroic theme or story. with a heroic theme or story. Homer’s Homer’s The IliadThe Iliad and Milton’s and Milton’s Paradise LostParadise Lost are examples of this. are examples of this.

epic simileepic simile Formal and sustained similes that are developed Formal and sustained similes that are developed

far beyond its specific points of parallel to the far beyond its specific points of parallel to the primary subject.primary subject.

Primary subject is called “tenor.”Primary subject is called “tenor.” Secondary subject (the simile) is called “vehicle.”Secondary subject (the simile) is called “vehicle.” Homer (Homer (IliadIliad and and OdysseyOdyssey) invented the ) invented the

technique; Virgil, Milton and other epic writers technique; Virgil, Milton and other epic writers copied the style.copied the style.

Example: Milton in Example: Milton in Paradise Lost IParadise Lost I, lines 768-76 , lines 768-76 describes the fallen angels (tenor) thronging describes the fallen angels (tenor) thronging towards their newly built palace of Pandemonium towards their newly built palace of Pandemonium by an elaborate comparison to swarming of bees by an elaborate comparison to swarming of bees (vehicle) that lasts an entire stanza.(vehicle) that lasts an entire stanza.

epigraphepigraph

A quotation or aphorism at the A quotation or aphorism at the beginning of a literary work beginning of a literary work suggestive of the theme of the fiction suggestive of the theme of the fiction or nonfiction text.or nonfiction text.

An An aphorismaphorism is a short clever saying is a short clever saying parting truth. Example: “waste not, parting truth. Example: “waste not, want not.”want not.”

epigramepigram Originally in Greek meant “an inscription.”Originally in Greek meant “an inscription.” Extended to encompass a very short poem Extended to encompass a very short poem

whether amorous (sexual love), elegiac (longing whether amorous (sexual love), elegiac (longing for the past), meditative (contemplative), for the past), meditative (contemplative), anecdotal (description, story, episode), or satiric anecdotal (description, story, episode), or satiric (witty, sarcasm).(witty, sarcasm).

Poem is polished, condensed, and pointed, often Poem is polished, condensed, and pointed, often with a witty end.with a witty end.

In his epigram “On a Volunteer Singer” Coleridge In his epigram “On a Volunteer Singer” Coleridge explains:explains:

Swans sing before they die—’twere no bad Swans sing before they die—’twere no bad thingthing

Should certain people die before they sing!Should certain people die before they sing!

epiphanyepiphany

Literally means “a manifestation.”Literally means “a manifestation.” Traditionally, Christianity used the word to Traditionally, Christianity used the word to

signify a manifestation of God’s presence signify a manifestation of God’s presence in the world.in the world.

Irishman James Joyce, in Irishman James Joyce, in A Portrait of the A Portrait of the Artist as a Young ManArtist as a Young Man, first adapted the , first adapted the word to a secular meaning: a sudden word to a secular meaning: a sudden radiance and revelation while observing a radiance and revelation while observing a commonplace object. commonplace object.

Joyce replaced what earlier writers had Joyce replaced what earlier writers had called “the moment,” an instance or called “the moment,” an instance or moment of revelation.moment of revelation.

EpistropheEpistrophe

The repetition of the same word or The repetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of group of words at the ends of successive clauses; it sets up a successive clauses; it sets up a pronounced rhythm and gains a pronounced rhythm and gains a special emphasis both by repeating special emphasis both by repeating the word and by putting the words in the word and by putting the words in the final position. the final position.

EpithetEpithet

An adjective or adjective phrase An adjective or adjective phrase applied to a person or thing to applied to a person or thing to emphasize a characteristic quality or emphasize a characteristic quality or attribute, such as “lily-livered attribute, such as “lily-livered coward”coward”

equivoqueequivoque

Special type of pun that makes use of a Special type of pun that makes use of a single word or phrase which has two single word or phrase which has two disparate meanings, in a context which disparate meanings, in a context which makes both meanings equally relevant.makes both meanings equally relevant.

The art of writing this pun is The art of writing this pun is equivocationequivocation.. As an example, an epitaph for a bank As an example, an epitaph for a bank

teller might read:teller might read:He checked his cash, cashed in his He checked his cash, cashed in his checks,checks,And left his window. Who is next?And left his window. Who is next?

ethical appealethical appeal

When a writer tries to persuade the When a writer tries to persuade the audience to respect him or her based audience to respect him or her based upon a presentation of self through upon a presentation of self through the text.the text.

Reputation of the author is often a Reputation of the author is often a factor in ethical appeals.factor in ethical appeals.

Regardless of the topic or over-all Regardless of the topic or over-all purpose of the essay, the ethical purpose of the essay, the ethical appeal is always done to gain the appeal is always done to gain the audience’s confidence.audience’s confidence.

ethosethos

Etymology: Greek.Etymology: Greek. A person’s character or disposition.A person’s character or disposition. The characteristic spirit or prevalent tone of The characteristic spirit or prevalent tone of

a people or a community.a people or a community. The essential identity of an institution or The essential identity of an institution or

system.system. Ideal excellence; nobler than reality.Ideal excellence; nobler than reality. Example: “The real is preferred to the ideal, Example: “The real is preferred to the ideal,

transient emotions to permanent transient emotions to permanent lineaments, pathos to ethos.”lineaments, pathos to ethos.”

euphemismeuphemism

Originally in Greek meant “to speak well.”Originally in Greek meant “to speak well.” Has come to mean: to speak well in the Has come to mean: to speak well in the

place of the blunt, disagreeable, terrifying place of the blunt, disagreeable, terrifying or offensive term.or offensive term.

Example: death becomes “to pass away.”Example: death becomes “to pass away.” Example: “Damn it” becomes “Darn it!”Example: “Damn it” becomes “Darn it!” Example: Victorians first used “limb” for Example: Victorians first used “limb” for

leg or “privates” for sexual organs.leg or “privates” for sexual organs.

EuphonyEuphony

Use of pleasant or melodious sounds.Use of pleasant or melodious sounds.

Exclamatory SentenceExclamatory Sentence

Provides emphasis or expresses Provides emphasis or expresses strong emotion often indicated by strong emotion often indicated by punctuationpunctuation

ExemplumExemplum

A story that contains or illustrates a A story that contains or illustrates a moral point put forward as an moral point put forward as an “example.”“example.”

expositionexposition

Background information provided by Background information provided by author to enhance the audience’s author to enhance the audience’s understanding of the context of a understanding of the context of a fiction or nonfiction story.fiction or nonfiction story.

Example: Robert Louis Stevenson Example: Robert Louis Stevenson gives the reader plenty of cultural gives the reader plenty of cultural background on the small seaside background on the small seaside village of his youth in hopes the village of his youth in hopes the audience will better appreciate the audience will better appreciate the context of “The Lantern-Bearers.”context of “The Lantern-Bearers.”

Extendend MetaphorExtendend Metaphor

A metaphor developed at great A metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.throughout a work.

FableFable A short story that presents a clear A short story that presents a clear

moral lesson.moral lesson.

FabliauFabliau

A short comic tale with a bawdy A short comic tale with a bawdy element, akin to the “dirty story.” element, akin to the “dirty story.” Chaucer’s Chaucer’s The Miller’s Tale The Miller’s Tale contains contains elements of the fabliau.elements of the fabliau.

FarceFarce

A play that aims to entertain the A play that aims to entertain the audience through absurd and audience through absurd and ridiculous characters and actions.ridiculous characters and actions.

Feminine EndingFeminine Ending

An extra unstressed syllable at the An extra unstressed syllable at the end of a line of poetry. (Contrast with end of a line of poetry. (Contrast with a stressed syllable, a masculine a stressed syllable, a masculine ending).ending).

Figurative LanguageFigurative Language

Language that is symbolic or Language that is symbolic or metaphorical and not meant to be metaphorical and not meant to be taken literally.taken literally.

Figure of SpeechFigure of Speech

A device used to produce figurative A device used to produce figurative languagelanguage

Flat CharacterFlat Character

Forester’s term for a character with a Forester’s term for a character with a single qualitysingle quality

FoilFoil

Usually a character who by contrast Usually a character who by contrast points up the qualities or points up the qualities or characteristics of another character. characteristics of another character.

FootFoot

A group of syllables forming a unit of A group of syllables forming a unit of verseverse

The basic unit of “metre”The basic unit of “metre”

Frame DeviceFrame Device

Overall unifying story within which Overall unifying story within which one or more tales are related. Ex. one or more tales are related. Ex. Frankenstein.Frankenstein.

Free VerseFree Verse

Verse written without any fixed Verse written without any fixed structure (either in metre or rhyme)structure (either in metre or rhyme)

freight-trainfreight-train

Sentence consisting three or more Sentence consisting three or more very short independent clauses very short independent clauses joined by conjunctions.joined by conjunctions.

Generic ConventionsGeneric Conventions

Refers to traditions for each genreRefers to traditions for each genre

GenreGenre

A particular type of writingA particular type of writing e.g. prose, poetry, dramae.g. prose, poetry, drama

HeptameterHeptameter

A verse line containing seven feetA verse line containing seven feet

HexameterHexameter

A verse line containing six feetA verse line containing six feet

High/Formal DictionHigh/Formal Diction

Contains language that creates an Contains language that creates an elevated tone; free of slang, idioms, elevated tone; free of slang, idioms, colloquialisms, and contractions; colloquialisms, and contractions; contains polysyllabic words, contains polysyllabic words, sophisticated syntax, and elegant sophisticated syntax, and elegant word choiceword choice

HomilyHomily

Literally “sermon.” A usually short Literally “sermon.” A usually short sermon. A lecture or discourse on a sermon. A lecture or discourse on a moral thememoral theme

hyperbolehyperbole Originally in Greek meant “overshooting.”Originally in Greek meant “overshooting.” A bold overstatement or extravagant expression of A bold overstatement or extravagant expression of

fact, used for serious or comic effect.fact, used for serious or comic effect. Easily recognized as exaggeration for effect.Easily recognized as exaggeration for effect. Example: There must have been ten million people Example: There must have been ten million people

at our Wal-Mart on the day after Thanksgiving.at our Wal-Mart on the day after Thanksgiving. Or, Shakespeare’s, Or, Shakespeare’s, OthelloOthello, Act III, Scene III, Lines , Act III, Scene III, Lines

330-33 reads:330-33 reads: Not poppy nor mandragora,Not poppy nor mandragora,

Nor all the drowsy syrups of the world,Nor all the drowsy syrups of the world,Shall ever medicine thee to that sweet sleepShall ever medicine thee to that sweet sleepWhich thou ow ‘dst yesterday.Which thou ow ‘dst yesterday.

IambIamb

The most common metrical foot in The most common metrical foot in English poetry, consisting of an English poetry, consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllablestressed syllable

IdyllIdyll

A story, often written in verse, A story, often written in verse, usually concerning innocent and usually concerning innocent and rustic characters in rural, idealized rustic characters in rural, idealized surroundssurrounds

This form can also deal with more This form can also deal with more heroic subjectsheroic subjects– Tennyson’s Tennyson’s Idylls of the KingIdylls of the King

Similar to PastoralSimilar to Pastoral

imageryimagery

Use of images, especially in a pattern Use of images, especially in a pattern of related images, often figurative, to of related images, often figurative, to create a strong, unified sensory create a strong, unified sensory impression.impression.

Use of sensory details to create Use of sensory details to create images that support the theme of the images that support the theme of the essay.essay.

Imperative SentenceImperative Sentence

Gives a CommandGives a Command

Infer (inference)Infer (inference)

To draw a reasonable conclusion To draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented from the information presented

Informal/low dictionInformal/low diction

The language of everyday use; The language of everyday use; relaxed and conversational; common relaxed and conversational; common and simple words, idioms, slang, and simple words, idioms, slang, jargonjargon

Internal RhymeInternal Rhyme

Rhyming words within a line rather Rhyming words within a line rather than at the end of linesthan at the end of lines

Interrogative SentenceInterrogative Sentence

Asks a questionAsks a question

Inter-textualInter-textual

Having clear links with other texts Having clear links with other texts through the themes, ideas, or issues through the themes, ideas, or issues which are exploredwhich are explored

ironyirony Originated in Greek comedy with the Originated in Greek comedy with the

character character eironeiron, who was a “dissembler.” , who was a “dissembler.” Appeared less intelligent than he was, spoke Appeared less intelligent than he was, spoke in understatement, and triumphed over the in understatement, and triumphed over the alazonalazon—the self-deceiving and stupid —the self-deceiving and stupid braggart.braggart.

Greek dramatist Sophocles developed the Greek dramatist Sophocles developed the “tragic” or “dramatic” irony in his 100-plus “tragic” or “dramatic” irony in his 100-plus tragedies, including tragedies, including AntigoneAntigone and and Oedipus Oedipus RexRex. .

Four kinds of irony: verbal, structural, Four kinds of irony: verbal, structural, dramatic, and situational.dramatic, and situational.

InvectiveInvective

An emotionally violent, verbal An emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.abusive language.

Inversion/ Inverted order of a Inversion/ Inverted order of a sentencesentence

Variation of the normal word order Variation of the normal word order (subject, verb, complement) which (subject, verb, complement) which puts the verb or complement at the puts the verb or complement at the head of the sentence.head of the sentence.

The sentence element appearing first The sentence element appearing first is emphasized more than the subject is emphasized more than the subject that is buried in the sentence.that is buried in the sentence.

irony (verbal)irony (verbal) Verbal ironyVerbal irony: demands the most audience sophistication. : demands the most audience sophistication.

This requires “reading between the lines.”This requires “reading between the lines.” Also, this irony takes the greatest risks with the audience Also, this irony takes the greatest risks with the audience

who might misinterpret what is irony and what is literal.who might misinterpret what is irony and what is literal. Might be simple reversal of literal meanings of words spoken Might be simple reversal of literal meanings of words spoken

or more complex, subtle, indirect and unobtrusive messages or more complex, subtle, indirect and unobtrusive messages that require the collection of hints from within the text.that require the collection of hints from within the text.

Compliments the intelligence of the reader, who, by Compliments the intelligence of the reader, who, by perceiving the irony, is in partnership with the author and perceiving the irony, is in partnership with the author and the minority of characters who understand, too.the minority of characters who understand, too.

Example: “It is truth universally acknowledged that a single Example: “It is truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife” (Jane Austen wife” (Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice)Pride and Prejudice). The subtle irony is . The subtle irony is that a single woman is in want of a rich husband as that a single woman is in want of a rich husband as manifested by the evidence in the novel that follows this manifested by the evidence in the novel that follows this opening line.opening line.

Sarcasm: a type of verbal irony that is crude and blatant Sarcasm: a type of verbal irony that is crude and blatant praise or dispraise. Example: “Oh, you’re God’s great gift to praise or dispraise. Example: “Oh, you’re God’s great gift to women, you are!”women, you are!”

irony (structural)irony (structural) Structural ironyStructural irony: some works show sustained : some works show sustained

irony throughout the text. irony throughout the text. Instead of using occasional verbal irony, the Instead of using occasional verbal irony, the

author introduces a structural feature which author introduces a structural feature which serves to sustain duplicity of meaning.serves to sustain duplicity of meaning.

Common device: naïve hero or naïve narrator.Common device: naïve hero or naïve narrator. Example: Jonathan Swift’s well-meaning but Example: Jonathan Swift’s well-meaning but

insanely rational economist who is the naïve insanely rational economist who is the naïve narrator in “A Modest Proposal.” The reader narrator in “A Modest Proposal.” The reader perceives the irony of one who, though well perceives the irony of one who, though well meaning, proposes the conversion of the excess meaning, proposes the conversion of the excess children of the oppressed and poverty-stricken children of the oppressed and poverty-stricken Irish into financial and gastronomical assets.Irish into financial and gastronomical assets.

irony (dramatic)irony (dramatic) Involves a situation in a play or narrative in Involves a situation in a play or narrative in

which the audience shares with the author which the audience shares with the author knowledge of which the character is knowledge of which the character is ignorant.ignorant.

The character expects the opposite of what The character expects the opposite of what is destined, or says something that is destined, or says something that anticipates the outcome, but not in a way anticipates the outcome, but not in a way that is meant when said.that is meant when said.

Example: In Example: In MacbethMacbeth, by Act I, Scene I, the , by Act I, Scene I, the audience knows that Macbeth and Lady audience knows that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth have already planned out Macbeth have already planned out Duncan’s murder—yet King Duncan never Duncan’s murder—yet King Duncan never suspects that he is walking into a trap.suspects that he is walking into a trap.

irony (situational) irony (situational) When the writer shows a discrepancy When the writer shows a discrepancy

between the expected results of some between the expected results of some action or situation and it actual results.action or situation and it actual results.

The work has a surprise ending, that, The work has a surprise ending, that, although a “surprise,” still fits the purpose, although a “surprise,” still fits the purpose, point of view, evidence and tone of the text.point of view, evidence and tone of the text.

Example: In Thomas Hardy’s “The Three Example: In Thomas Hardy’s “The Three Strangers,” it is a surprise to the characters Strangers,” it is a surprise to the characters and the audience when the two strangers at and the audience when the two strangers at the chimney corner turn out to be the the chimney corner turn out to be the hangman and his intended victim.hangman and his intended victim.

JargonJargon

A characteristic language of a A characteristic language of a particular group (as among thieves); particular group (as among thieves); "they don't speak our lingo”"they don't speak our lingo”

JuxtapositionJuxtaposition

A poetic and rhetorical device in A poetic and rhetorical device in which normally unassociated ideas, which normally unassociated ideas, words, or phrases are placed next to words, or phrases are placed next to one another, often creating an effect one another, often creating an effect of surprise and wit. Ex. “The of surprise and wit. Ex. “The apparition of these faces in the apparition of these faces in the crowd:/ Petals on a wet, black crowd:/ Petals on a wet, black bough.” (“In a Station of the Metro” bough.” (“In a Station of the Metro” by Ezra Pound). by Ezra Pound).

LamentLament

A poem expressing intense griefA poem expressing intense grief

litoteslitotes Noun.Noun. From Greek From Greek lítōtēslítōtēs for “plain” or “simple.” for “plain” or “simple.” Assertion of an affirmative by negating its Assertion of an affirmative by negating its

contrary. Example: “He’s not the brightest man in contrary. Example: “He’s not the brightest man in the world,” meaning “he is stupid.”the world,” meaning “he is stupid.”

It is a simple form of understatement, often in It is a simple form of understatement, often in Anglo-Saxon poetry, like Anglo-Saxon poetry, like BeowulfBeowulf, it is a , it is a statement of grim irony. Example, in describing statement of grim irony. Example, in describing the dwelling place of the monster Grendel, the dwelling place of the monster Grendel, Hrothgar states, “That is not a pleasant place.”Hrothgar states, “That is not a pleasant place.”

General example: “He is two bricks shy of a full General example: “He is two bricks shy of a full load,” meaning his reasoning powers are not all load,” meaning his reasoning powers are not all there.there.

Long and Involved sentenceLong and Involved sentence

About 30 words in length. About 30 words in length.

Loose or Cumulative Loose or Cumulative SentenceSentence

Makes complete sense if brought to a Makes complete sense if brought to a close before the actual ending. Ex. close before the actual ending. Ex. “We reached Edmonton that morning “We reached Edmonton that morning after a turbulent flight and some after a turbulent flight and some exciting experiences, tired but exciting experiences, tired but exhilarated, full of stories to tell our exhilarated, full of stories to tell our friends and neighbors.” The sentence friends and neighbors.” The sentence could end before the modifying could end before the modifying phrases without losing its coherence. phrases without losing its coherence.

LyricLyric

Originally a song performed to the Originally a song performed to the accompaniment of a lyre (an early accompaniment of a lyre (an early harp-like instrument) but now it can harp-like instrument) but now it can mean a song-like poem or a short mean a song-like poem or a short poem expressing personal feelingpoem expressing personal feeling

Medium SentenceMedium Sentence

Approximately 18 words in lengthApproximately 18 words in length

melodramatic redundancymelodramatic redundancy

This AP exam phrase incorporates two This AP exam phrase incorporates two terms: terms: melodramaticmelodramatic and and redundancyredundancy..

Melodramatic: exaggerated, Melodramatic: exaggerated, sensational, overly dramatic.sensational, overly dramatic.

Redundancy: the state of being Redundancy: the state of being unnecessarily repetitive or unnecessarily repetitive or superfluoussuperfluous

Thus, Thus, melodramatic redundancymelodramatic redundancy means, “unnecessary repetition that means, “unnecessary repetition that is exaggerated, sensational and is exaggerated, sensational and overly dramatic.”overly dramatic.”

metaphormetaphor A figure of speech that compares two things which are A figure of speech that compares two things which are

basically dissimilar. (Example: The ship basically dissimilar. (Example: The ship plowedplowed the sea.) the sea.) Unlike a simile, metaphors do not have a connective word Unlike a simile, metaphors do not have a connective word

(like, as, or than). (like, as, or than). Many metaphors are implied or suggested. (Example: Anne Many metaphors are implied or suggested. (Example: Anne

Bradstreet in “Upon the Burning of Our House” calls heaven Bradstreet in “Upon the Burning of Our House” calls heaven “the beautiful house” built by “the mightiest architect.”)“the beautiful house” built by “the mightiest architect.”)

An “extended” or “controlling” metaphor is used An “extended” or “controlling” metaphor is used throughout the essay. throughout the essay.

A dead metaphor is one that is overly used and is no longer A dead metaphor is one that is overly used and is no longer considered figurative, but rather literal. (Example: the leg considered figurative, but rather literal. (Example: the leg of a chair.) of a chair.)

A mixed metaphor is the use of two or more inconsistent A mixed metaphor is the use of two or more inconsistent metaphors in one expression. Mixed metaphors make no metaphors in one expression. Mixed metaphors make no sense upon examination and are often used as humorous. sense upon examination and are often used as humorous. (Example: To hold the fort, he’d have to shake a leg.) (Example: To hold the fort, he’d have to shake a leg.)

metonymymetonymy Noun.Noun. From Greek From Greek metōnymíametōnymía for “change of name.” for “change of name.” A figure of speech where the term for one thing is A figure of speech where the term for one thing is

applied for another with which it has become applied for another with which it has become closely associated in experience, or where a part closely associated in experience, or where a part represents the whole.represents the whole.

Example: “the crown” is figuratively the king.Example: “the crown” is figuratively the king. Example: the word “petticoat” represents Example: the word “petticoat” represents

femininity; whereas the word “pants” represents femininity; whereas the word “pants” represents being in control. being in control.

Reminder: This is not a Reminder: This is not a synecdochesynecdoche; the tools are ; the tools are different. For one, a metonymy is used so much different. For one, a metonymy is used so much that it has become a figure of speech.that it has become a figure of speech.

MetreMetre

The regular use of stressed and The regular use of stressed and unstressed syllables in poetryunstressed syllables in poetry

Mock heroicMock heroic

A poem that treats trivial subject A poem that treats trivial subject matter in the grand and elevated matter in the grand and elevated style of epic poetrystyle of epic poetry

The effort produced is often satirical, The effort produced is often satirical, as in Pope’s as in Pope’s The Rape of the LockThe Rape of the Lock

monologuemonologue

From Greek From Greek monologosmonologos meaning “to meaning “to speak alone.”speak alone.”

A long speech by one person; a A long speech by one person; a dramatic speech by one actor.dramatic speech by one actor.

Also known as a “soliloquy” if the Also known as a “soliloquy” if the character speaks inner thoughts to the character speaks inner thoughts to the audience and no other character audience and no other character hears.hears.

An “aside” is a short soliloquy.An “aside” is a short soliloquy.

MonometerMonometer

A verse line consisting of only one A verse line consisting of only one metrical footmetrical foot

moodmood

The atmosphere in the text created by the The atmosphere in the text created by the author’s tone towards the subject.author’s tone towards the subject.

Sometimes called “atmosphere” or Sometimes called “atmosphere” or “ambience.”“ambience.”

Tools used:Tools used:

-Style (how sentences are combined)-Style (how sentences are combined)

-syntax (strength, length and complexity -syntax (strength, length and complexity of each sentence)of each sentence)

-diction (individual word choice)-diction (individual word choice)

MotifMotif

A dominant theme, subject or idea A dominant theme, subject or idea which runs through a piece of which runs through a piece of literatureliterature

Often a “motif” can assume a Often a “motif” can assume a symbolic importancesymbolic importance

NarrativeNarrative

A piece of writing that tells a storyA piece of writing that tells a story

Natural Order of a SentenceNatural Order of a Sentence

Involves constructing a sentence so Involves constructing a sentence so the subject comes before the the subject comes before the predicate. Ex, “Oranges grow in predicate. Ex, “Oranges grow in California.” California.”

naturalistic novelnaturalistic novel This AP exam phrase incorporates two literary This AP exam phrase incorporates two literary

terms: terms: naturalismnaturalism and and novelnovel.. Naturalism: centering upon nature and Naturalism: centering upon nature and

excluding supernatural or spiritual elements, excluding supernatural or spiritual elements, with special attention to effects of with special attention to effects of environment and heredity on human nature environment and heredity on human nature and action. and action.

Novel: extended fictional narrative that allows Novel: extended fictional narrative that allows greater complication of plot and more subtle greater complication of plot and more subtle examinations of character.examinations of character.

Example: Jack London’s Example: Jack London’s Call of the WindCall of the Wind and and White FangWhite Fang are naturalistic novels, where are naturalistic novels, where premise of “survival of the fittest” is premise of “survival of the fittest” is examined.examined.

Neutral DictionNeutral Diction

Uses standard language and Uses standard language and vocabulary without elaborate words vocabulary without elaborate words and may include contractionsand may include contractions

new journalismnew journalism Noun.Noun. Became popular during the Modernism movement in Became popular during the Modernism movement in

American culture following WWII, but is an earlier American culture following WWII, but is an earlier phenomenon.phenomenon.

No longer objective; doesn’t make any pretense to No longer objective; doesn’t make any pretense to being objective.being objective.

Features author’s subjective responses to people and Features author’s subjective responses to people and events covered in essay.events covered in essay.

Sometimes includes fictional elements meant to Sometimes includes fictional elements meant to illuminate and dramatize those responses of the illuminate and dramatize those responses of the author.author.

Example: “The Execution of Tropmann” by Ivan Example: “The Execution of Tropmann” by Ivan Turgenev in which the author reacts subjectively to Turgenev in which the author reacts subjectively to the sights and sounds of attending his first public the sights and sounds of attending his first public execution. His opinion about such government execution. His opinion about such government events is clear by the last paragraph of the essay. events is clear by the last paragraph of the essay. Persuasion is the key.Persuasion is the key.

Non SequiturNon Sequitur

A fallacy of argument in which A fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons or warrants fail to claims, reasons or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn’t connect logically; one point doesn’t follow from another. follow from another.

novel and forms thereofnovel and forms thereof

NovelNovel: extended fictional narrative : extended fictional narrative that allows greater complication of that allows greater complication of plot and more subtle examinations of plot and more subtle examinations of character.character.

NoveletteNovelette or or NovellaNovella: fictional : fictional narrative of middle length. narrative of middle length. Examples: Examples: Old Man and the SeaOld Man and the Sea by by Ernest Hemingway or Ernest Hemingway or Heart of Heart of DarknessDarkness by Joseph Conrad. by Joseph Conrad.

OctameterOctameter

A verse line consisting of eight feetA verse line consisting of eight feet

OctaveOctave

The first eight lines of a sonnetThe first eight lines of a sonnet

OdeOde

A verse form similar to a lyric but A verse form similar to a lyric but often more lengthy and containing often more lengthy and containing more serious and elevated thoughtsmore serious and elevated thoughts

OmissionOmission

OnomatopoeiaOnomatopoeia

The use of words whose sound copies The use of words whose sound copies the sound of the thing or process the sound of the thing or process that they describethat they describe

On a simple level, words like “bang”, On a simple level, words like “bang”, “hiss”, and “splash” are “hiss”, and “splash” are onomatopoeic, but it also has more onomatopoeic, but it also has more subtle usessubtle uses

oxymoronoxymoron Noun.Noun. From Greek: From Greek: oxioxi means “sharp, keen, means “sharp, keen,

acute, pungent, acid”; acute, pungent, acid”; moronmoron means “dull, means “dull, stupid, foolish.”stupid, foolish.”

A figure of speech in which two A figure of speech in which two contradictory words are placed side-by-contradictory words are placed side-by-side for effect.side for effect.

Words are obviously opposed or markedly Words are obviously opposed or markedly contradictory terms.contradictory terms.

Casually reference: contradiction of terms.Casually reference: contradiction of terms. Examples: “civil war,” “alone together,” Examples: “civil war,” “alone together,”

“deafening silence,” or “jumbo shrimp.”“deafening silence,” or “jumbo shrimp.”

paeanpaean From Greek From Greek paianpaian meaning “hymn to Apollo” ( meaning “hymn to Apollo” (Paian Paian

or or PaionPaion, being a name for Apollo)., being a name for Apollo). Pronounced “pie-un.”Pronounced “pie-un.” Any song of joy, praise or triumph.Any song of joy, praise or triumph. Shakespeare’s Shakespeare’s HamletHamlet, the protagonist offers a paean , the protagonist offers a paean

to man:to man:What a piece of work is man, how noble in reason,What a piece of work is man, how noble in reason,how infinite his faculties, in form and moving howhow infinite his faculties, in form and moving howexpress and admirable, in action how like an angel,express and admirable, in action how like an angel,in apprehension, how like a god: the beauty of thein apprehension, how like a god: the beauty of theworld, the paragon of animals . . . . (II, ii, 292-95)world, the paragon of animals . . . . (II, ii, 292-95)

paradoxparadox A statement that reveals a kind of truth, A statement that reveals a kind of truth,

although it seems at first to be self-although it seems at first to be self-contradictory and untrue. contradictory and untrue.

Rhymes with “in your socks”Rhymes with “in your socks” Examples: Books are a poor man’s wealth. Examples: Books are a poor man’s wealth.

Or, as Emily Dickinson writes, “Much Or, as Emily Dickinson writes, “Much madness is Divinest Sense.” madness is Divinest Sense.”

In John Donne’s sonnet, “Death, Be Not In John Donne’s sonnet, “Death, Be Not Proud,” he declares:Proud,” he declares:

One short sleep past, we wake eternallyOne short sleep past, we wake eternallyAnd death shall be no more; And death shall be no more; Death, thou Death, thou

shalt dieshalt die..

Parallelism/parallel Parallelism/parallel structurestructure

Sentence construction which places in close Sentence construction which places in close proximity two or more equal grammatical proximity two or more equal grammatical constructions.constructions.

Might be as simple as listing two or three modifiers Might be as simple as listing two or three modifiers in a row to describe the same noun or verb.in a row to describe the same noun or verb.

Might be two or more of the same type of phrases Might be two or more of the same type of phrases (prepositional, participial, gerund, appositive).(prepositional, participial, gerund, appositive).

Might be two or more subordinate clauses that Might be two or more subordinate clauses that modify the same noun or verb.modify the same noun or verb.

Might be a complex blend of single-word, phrase, Might be a complex blend of single-word, phrase, and clause parallelism all in the same sentence.and clause parallelism all in the same sentence.

Simple Example: He lived well, and he died well.Simple Example: He lived well, and he died well.

parodyparody Imitates the serious materials and manner of a Imitates the serious materials and manner of a

particular work, or the characteristic style of a particular work, or the characteristic style of a particular author, and applies it to a lowly or particular author, and applies it to a lowly or grossly discordant subject.grossly discordant subject.

An exaggerated imitation of a serious work for An exaggerated imitation of a serious work for humorous purposes.humorous purposes.

Sometimes called “burlesque” and “travesty.”Sometimes called “burlesque” and “travesty.” An English essayist of the early twentieth century, An English essayist of the early twentieth century,

Max Beerbohm is known for his parody.Max Beerbohm is known for his parody. James Thurber of James Thurber of The New YorkerThe New Yorker magazine was magazine was

an American writer also known for parody.an American writer also known for parody. The cartoon series The cartoon series The SimpsonsThe Simpsons often does a often does a

parody of a famous poem or novel.parody of a famous poem or novel.

PastoralPastoral

Generally, literature concerning rural Generally, literature concerning rural life with idealized settings and rustic life with idealized settings and rustic characterscharacters

Often pastorals are concerned with Often pastorals are concerned with the lives of shepherds and the lives of shepherds and shepherdesses presented in idyllic shepherdesses presented in idyllic and unrealistic waysand unrealistic ways

Similar to IdyllSimilar to Idyll

pathospathos Noun.Noun. Etymology: Greek.Etymology: Greek. A quality in an experience, narrative, literary A quality in an experience, narrative, literary

work, etc., which arouses profound feelings of work, etc., which arouses profound feelings of compassion or sorrow.compassion or sorrow.

Pathetic expression or emotion; transient or Pathetic expression or emotion; transient or emotional.emotional.

Example: For many audience members, the first Example: For many audience members, the first time viewing time viewing BraveheartBraveheart in a darkened theatre in a darkened theatre produced a profound pathos while watching produced a profound pathos while watching William Wallace scream out “Freedom!” in his last William Wallace scream out “Freedom!” in his last dying moments after suffering a barbaric torture dying moments after suffering a barbaric torture at the hands of the civilized English.at the hands of the civilized English.

PedanticPedantic

An adjective that describes words, An adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or overly scholarly, academic, or bookishbookish

PentameterPentameter

A line of verse containing five feetA line of verse containing five feet

Periodic sentencePeriodic sentence

Sentence that places the main idea Sentence that places the main idea or central complete thought at the or central complete thought at the end of the sentence, after all end of the sentence, after all introductory elements.introductory elements.

PeriphrasisPeriphrasis

A round-about or long-winded way of A round-about or long-winded way of expressing somethingexpressing something

PersonificationPersonification

The attribution of human feelings, The attribution of human feelings, emotions, or sensations to an emotions, or sensations to an inanimate objectinanimate object

Personification is a kind of metaphor Personification is a kind of metaphor where human qualities are given to where human qualities are given to things or abstract ideas, and they are things or abstract ideas, and they are described as if they were a persondescribed as if they were a person

PlotPlot

The sequence of events in a poem, The sequence of events in a poem, play, novel, or short story that make play, novel, or short story that make up the main storylineup the main storyline

Point of ViewPoint of View

The perspective from which a The perspective from which a narrative is told. 1narrative is told. 1stst, 2, 2ndnd and 3 and 3rdrd. .

The perspective from which a story is The perspective from which a story is told (first person, third person told (first person, third person omniscient, or third person limited omniscient, or third person limited omniscient)omniscient)

polysyndetonpolysyndeton

Sentence that uses Sentence that uses andand or other or other conjunctions multiple times with no conjunctions multiple times with no commas to separate items in a series.commas to separate items in a series.

Stresses equally each member of the Stresses equally each member of the series.series.

Slows the flow of the sentence for effect, Slows the flow of the sentence for effect, making items more emphatic than in the making items more emphatic than in the asyndeton.asyndeton.

Formula: X and Y and Z.Formula: X and Y and Z. See See asyndetonasyndeton for variation. for variation.

post hocpost hoc, , egro propter hocegro propter hoc

Latin for “after this, therefore Latin for “after this, therefore because of this.”because of this.”

When a writer implies that because When a writer implies that because one thing follows another, the first one thing follows another, the first caused the second.caused the second.

Predicate adjectivePredicate adjective

One type of subject compliment, an One type of subject compliment, an adjective, group of adjectives, or adjective, group of adjectives, or adjective clause that follows a linking adjective clause that follows a linking verbverb

Predicate nominativePredicate nominative

Another type of subject complement, Another type of subject complement, a noun, group of nouns, or noun a noun, group of nouns, or noun clause that renames the subjectclause that renames the subject

ProseProse

Any kind of writing which is not verse Any kind of writing which is not verse – usually divided into fiction and non-– usually divided into fiction and non-fictionfiction

ProtagonistProtagonist

The main character or speaker in a The main character or speaker in a poem, monologue, play, or storypoem, monologue, play, or story

punpun A play on words that are either identical in sound (homonyms) A play on words that are either identical in sound (homonyms)

or similar in sound, but are sharply diverse in meaning.or similar in sound, but are sharply diverse in meaning. Example: “Thou art Peter (Petros) and upon this rock (petra) I Example: “Thou art Peter (Petros) and upon this rock (petra) I

will build my church.”will build my church.” Early puns had roots in serious literature, that like Shakespeare, Early puns had roots in serious literature, that like Shakespeare,

can also have a comical effect in a very serious situation.can also have a comical effect in a very serious situation. Example: In Example: In Romeo and JulietRomeo and Juliet, while bleeding to death, Mercutio , while bleeding to death, Mercutio

says “Ask for me tomorrow and you shall find me a grave man.”says “Ask for me tomorrow and you shall find me a grave man.” By the eighteenth century and after, the literary use of puns has By the eighteenth century and after, the literary use of puns has

been almost exclusively comic.been almost exclusively comic. Equivoque: the use of a single word or phrase which has two Equivoque: the use of a single word or phrase which has two

disparate meanings, in a context which makes both meanings disparate meanings, in a context which makes both meanings equally relevant.equally relevant.

Example: An epitaph suggested for a bank teller, which states, Example: An epitaph suggested for a bank teller, which states, “He checked his cash, cashed in his checks. And left his “He checked his cash, cashed in his checks. And left his window. Who is next?”window. Who is next?”

purple patchpurple patch Translation of “purpureus . . . Pannus” from Horace’s Translation of “purpureus . . . Pannus” from Horace’s Ars Ars

PoeticaPoetica.. Signifies a sudden heightening of rhythm, diction, and Signifies a sudden heightening of rhythm, diction, and

figurative language that makes a section of verse or prose—figurative language that makes a section of verse or prose—especially a descriptive passage—stand out from its context.especially a descriptive passage—stand out from its context.

Sometimes applied to a set piece, separable and quotable, in Sometimes applied to a set piece, separable and quotable, in which an author rises to an occasion.which an author rises to an occasion.

Example: From the 1999 film Example: From the 1999 film Cider House RulesCider House Rules, in which , in which Dr. Wilbur Larch (Michael Caine) salutes the boy orphans crowded in the attic bedroom with, “Goodnight, you princes of Maine. You kings of New England,” thereby heightening just how precious these orphaned lads and the struggling orphanage are to the doctor.

Example: Shakespeare’s eulogy of England by the dying John Example: Shakespeare’s eulogy of England by the dying John of Gaunt in Shakespeare’s of Gaunt in Shakespeare’s Richard IIRichard II (Act II, Scene I, lines 40- (Act II, Scene I, lines 40-43). The dying John says:43). The dying John says:

This royal throne of kings, this scept’red isle,This royal throne of kings, this scept’red isle,This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars,This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars,This other Eden, demi-paradise . . . .This other Eden, demi-paradise . . . .

QuatrainQuatrain

A stanza of four lines which can have A stanza of four lines which can have various rhyme schemesvarious rhyme schemes

red herringred herring

When a writer raises an irrelevant When a writer raises an irrelevant issue to draw attention away from issue to draw attention away from the real issue.the real issue.

refrainrefrain A line, or part of a line, or a group of lines which is A line, or part of a line, or a group of lines which is

repeated in the course of a poem or an essay.repeated in the course of a poem or an essay. There might be slight variations within the There might be slight variations within the

repeated refrain.repeated refrain. The repetition is done for effect.The repetition is done for effect. Example: If an essay incorporated repeated Example: If an essay incorporated repeated

phrases like “I believe” or “This is love” each phrases like “I believe” or “This is love” each refrain focuses the audience on a particular refrain focuses the audience on a particular subject.subject.

Perhaps the most famous refrain in American Perhaps the most famous refrain in American writing is from Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” writing is from Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” which is simply “Nevermore.” The audience is which is simply “Nevermore.” The audience is focused on the concept of never will the narrator focused on the concept of never will the narrator be able to forget his lost love, find relief from the be able to forget his lost love, find relief from the pain, or be able to hold her again.pain, or be able to hold her again.

refutationrefutation

The art of mustering relevant The art of mustering relevant opposing arguments.opposing arguments.

The author “refutes” through The author “refutes” through evidence logical opposition.evidence logical opposition.

RepetitionRepetition

A device in which words, sounds, and A device in which words, sounds, and ideas are used more than once to ideas are used more than once to enhance rhythm and to create enhance rhythm and to create emphasis. Ex. “…government of the emphasis. Ex. “…government of the people, by the people, for the people, people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.” shall not perish from the Earth.” (“Address at Gettysburg” by (“Address at Gettysburg” by Abraham Lincoln) Abraham Lincoln)

rhetoricrhetoric

The art of effective communication, The art of effective communication, especially persuasive discourse.especially persuasive discourse.

Focuses on the interrelationship of Focuses on the interrelationship of invention, arrangement, and style in order invention, arrangement, and style in order to create fitting and appropriate discourse.to create fitting and appropriate discourse.

Might also be used as an adjective to Might also be used as an adjective to describe the elements of effective describe the elements of effective communication (rhetorical situation, communication (rhetorical situation, rhetorical question, rhetorical example, rhetorical question, rhetorical example, etc.).etc.).

Rhetorical FragmentRhetorical Fragment

A sentence fragment used A sentence fragment used deliberately for a persuasive purpose deliberately for a persuasive purpose or to create a desired effect. Ex. or to create a desired effect. Ex. “Something to consider.” “Something to consider.”

Rhetorical ModesRhetorical Modes

The variety, conventions, and The variety, conventions, and purposes of the major kinds of purposes of the major kinds of writing (exposition explains and writing (exposition explains and analyzes information; argumentation analyzes information; argumentation proves validity of an idea; description proves validity of an idea; description re-creates, invents, or presents a re-creates, invents, or presents a person, place, event or action; person, place, event or action; narration tells a story recount an narration tells a story recount an event) event)

Rhetorical QuestionRhetorical Question

A question that requires no answer. It A question that requires no answer. It is used to draw attention to a point is used to draw attention to a point and is generally stronger than a and is generally stronger than a direct statement. Ex. “If Mr. Ferchoff direct statement. Ex. “If Mr. Ferchoff is always fair, as you have said, why is always fair, as you have said, why did he refuse to listen to Mrs. did he refuse to listen to Mrs. Baldwin’s arguments?”Baldwin’s arguments?”

RhymeRhyme

Corresponding sounds in words, Corresponding sounds in words, usually at the end of each line but usually at the end of each line but not alwaysnot always

Similar to Internal RhymeSimilar to Internal Rhyme

Rhyme SchemeRhyme Scheme

The pattern of the rhymes in a poemThe pattern of the rhymes in a poem

RhythmRhythm

The “movement” of the poem as The “movement” of the poem as created through the metre and the created through the metre and the way that language is stressed within way that language is stressed within the poemthe poem

SarcasmSarcasm

From the Greek for “to tear flesh,” From the Greek for “to tear flesh,” involves bitter, caustic language that involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or somethingor something

satiresatire Text that reveals a critical attitude toward some Text that reveals a critical attitude toward some

element of human behavior by portraying it in an element of human behavior by portraying it in an extreme way.extreme way.

Satire is meant to improve society through humor, Satire is meant to improve society through humor, not to tear it down through vicious ridicule.not to tear it down through vicious ridicule.

Doesn’t simply abuse (as in Doesn’t simply abuse (as in invectiveinvective) or get ) or get personal (as in personal (as in sarcasmsarcasm).).

Targets groups or large concepts rather than Targets groups or large concepts rather than individuals.individuals.

As opposed to sarcasm, which is meant to abuse and As opposed to sarcasm, which is meant to abuse and ridicule an individual.ridicule an individual.

Very creative and takes audience knowledge and Very creative and takes audience knowledge and perception to appreciate.perception to appreciate.

ScansionScansion

The analysis of metrical patterns in The analysis of metrical patterns in poetrypoetry

SemanticsSemantics

The branch of linguistics that studies The branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words, their historical the meaning of words, their historical and psychological development and psychological development (etymology), their connotations, and (etymology), their connotations, and their relation to one another.their relation to one another.

sentimentalismsentimentalism

What is perceived as an excess of What is perceived as an excess of emotion to an occasion.emotion to an occasion.

In a more limited sense, refers to an In a more limited sense, refers to an overindulgence in the “tender” overindulgence in the “tender” emotions of pathos and sympathy.emotions of pathos and sympathy.

Relative to audience and cultural Relative to audience and cultural perceptions.perceptions.

SeptetSeptet

A seven-line stanzaA seven-line stanza

SestetSestet

The last si lines of a sonnetThe last si lines of a sonnet

Short SentenceShort Sentence

Approximately 5 wordsApproximately 5 words

signal wordssignal words

Words in an essay that alert the Words in an essay that alert the reader to a change in tone, direction, reader to a change in tone, direction, section, or category.section, or category.

Examples: however, on the other Examples: however, on the other hand, contrary to, and now, next, hand, contrary to, and now, next, following, etc.following, etc.

Time Examples: At one in the Time Examples: At one in the morning, by sunset, at noon, etc.morning, by sunset, at noon, etc.

similesimile

A figure of speech, comparing two A figure of speech, comparing two essentially unlike things through the essentially unlike things through the use of a specific word of comparison use of a specific word of comparison (like, as, or than, for example). (like, as, or than, for example).

Example: “This is the Arsenal. From Example: “This is the Arsenal. From the floor to ceiling, like a huge organ, the floor to ceiling, like a huge organ, rise the burnished arms.” rise the burnished arms.”

Simple SentenceSimple Sentence

Contains one independent clause Contains one independent clause “The singer bowed to her adoring “The singer bowed to her adoring audience.” audience.”

SlangSlang

Recently coined words often used in Recently coined words often used in informal situations; often come and informal situations; often come and go quickly, passing in and out of go quickly, passing in and out of usage within months and yearsusage within months and years

SoliloquySoliloquy

A speech in which a character, alone A speech in which a character, alone of stage, expresses his or her of stage, expresses his or her thoughts and feelings aloud for the thoughts and feelings aloud for the benefit of the audience, often in a benefit of the audience, often in a revealing wayrevealing way

SonnetSonnet

A fourteen-line poem, usually with A fourteen-line poem, usually with ten syllables in each lineten syllables in each line

There are several ways in which lines There are several ways in which lines can be organized, but often they can be organized, but often they consist of an octave and a sestetconsist of an octave and a sestet

StanzaStanza

The blocks of lines into which a poem The blocks of lines into which a poem is dividedis divided

Sometimes these are, less precisely, Sometimes these are, less precisely, reffered to as verses, which can lead reffered to as verses, which can lead to confusion as a poetry is to confusion as a poetry is sometimes called “verse”sometimes called “verse”

StichomythiaStichomythia

A dialogue in which the endings and A dialogue in which the endings and beginnings of each line echo each beginnings of each line echo each other, taking on a new meaning with other, taking on a new meaning with each new line. each new line.

straw manstraw man

Argues against a claim that nobody Argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally actually holds or is universally considered weak.considered weak.

Diverts attention away from the real Diverts attention away from the real issues.issues.

Stream of ConsciousnessStream of Consciousness

A technique in which the writer A technique in which the writer records thoughts and emotions in a records thoughts and emotions in a “stream” as they come to mind, “stream” as they come to mind, without giving order or structurewithout giving order or structure

StructureStructure

The way that a poem or play or other The way that a poem or play or other piece of writing has been put piece of writing has been put togethertogether

This can include the metre pattern, This can include the metre pattern, stanza arrangement, and the eway stanza arrangement, and the eway the ideas are developed, etc…the ideas are developed, etc…

stylestyle

The choices in diction, tone, syntax that a The choices in diction, tone, syntax that a writer makes.writer makes.

Together, these choices create the manner Together, these choices create the manner of expression in a text, which is of expression in a text, which is stylestyle..

Evolves over time as writing habits are Evolves over time as writing habits are developed naturally.developed naturally.

Considered both conscious and Considered both conscious and unconscious and thus may be altered to fit unconscious and thus may be altered to fit the purpose of the text.the purpose of the text.

Subject complementSubject complement

The word or clause that follows a The word or clause that follows a linking verb and complements, or linking verb and complements, or completes the subject or the completes the subject or the sentence by either renaming it or sentence by either renaming it or describing itdescribing it

Subordinate clauseSubordinate clause

Contains a subject and verb (like all Contains a subject and verb (like all clauses) but cannot stand alone; clauses) but cannot stand alone; does not express complete thoughtdoes not express complete thought

Sub-plotSub-plot

A secondary storyline in a story or A secondary storyline in a story or playplay

Often, as in some Shakespeare plays, Often, as in some Shakespeare plays, the sub-plot can provide some comic the sub-plot can provide some comic relief from the main action, but sup-relief from the main action, but sup-plots can also relate in quite complex plots can also relate in quite complex ways to the main plot of a textways to the main plot of a text

Sub-textSub-text

Ideas, themes, or issues that are not Ideas, themes, or issues that are not dealt with overtly by a text but which dealt with overtly by a text but which exist below the surface meaning of itexist below the surface meaning of it

syllogismsyllogism

Noun.Noun. From the Greek word From the Greek word syllogismossyllogismos, ,

meaning “inference or conclusion.”meaning “inference or conclusion.” A form of argument or reasoning, A form of argument or reasoning,

consisting of two premises and a consisting of two premises and a conclusion.conclusion.

symbolsymbol

An object, place, setting, prop, event An object, place, setting, prop, event or person that represents or stands or person that represents or stands for some idea or event.for some idea or event.

Never hidden, but interwoven Never hidden, but interwoven throughout the text.throughout the text.

It may also retain its own literal It may also retain its own literal meaning while taking on the meaning while taking on the symbolic qualities.symbolic qualities.

synecdochesynecdoche Greek, for “taking together.”Greek, for “taking together.” A part of something is used to signify the A part of something is used to signify the

whole.whole. Or, more rarely, a whole to signify a part.Or, more rarely, a whole to signify a part. Examples: Milton in “Lycidas” calls the Examples: Milton in “Lycidas” calls the

corrupt clergy of the Church of England corrupt clergy of the Church of England “blind mouths,” meaning their misguided “blind mouths,” meaning their misguided sermons represent their total corruption.sermons represent their total corruption.

Example: “Give me your hand,” does not Example: “Give me your hand,” does not mean literally just your hand, but your mean literally just your hand, but your entire physical help.entire physical help.

Reminder: do not mix this term with Reminder: do not mix this term with metonymymetonymy. They are different tools.. They are different tools.

syntactic fluencysyntactic fluency

Ability to create a variety of sentence Ability to create a variety of sentence structures, appropriately complex structures, appropriately complex and/or simple and varied in length.and/or simple and varied in length.

syntactic permutationsyntactic permutation

Sentence structures that are Sentence structures that are extraordinarily complex and extraordinarily complex and involved.involved.

Often difficult for the reader to Often difficult for the reader to follow.follow.

Wordiness beyond effectiveness.Wordiness beyond effectiveness.

SyntaxSyntax

The way in which sentences are The way in which sentences are structuredstructured

Sentences can be structured in Sentences can be structured in different ways to achieve different different ways to achieve different effectseffects

tautologytautology Noun.Noun. From Late Latin From Late Latin tautologia.tautologia. A repetition of the same statement.A repetition of the same statement. The repetition, within the immediate context, of The repetition, within the immediate context, of

the same word or phrase or the same meaning in the same word or phrase or the same meaning in different words; usually as a fault of style.different words; usually as a fault of style.

Example: “essential necessaries.”Example: “essential necessaries.” A repetition of something already said.A repetition of something already said. A mere repetition of acts, incidents or A mere repetition of acts, incidents or

experiences.experiences. Modern Logic: A self-evident truth, a truism; a Modern Logic: A self-evident truth, a truism; a

compound proposition which is unconditionally compound proposition which is unconditionally true for all possibilities.true for all possibilities.

Telegraphic sentenceTelegraphic sentence

A sentence shorter than 5 wordsA sentence shorter than 5 words

TetrameterTetrameter

A verse line of four feetA verse line of four feet

themetheme Central idea of a work of fiction or nonfiction.Central idea of a work of fiction or nonfiction. Revealed and developed in the course of a story or Revealed and developed in the course of a story or

explored through argument.explored through argument. An abstract claim, or doctrine, whether implicit or asserted, An abstract claim, or doctrine, whether implicit or asserted,

which the text is designed to incorporate and makes which the text is designed to incorporate and makes persuasive to the reader.persuasive to the reader.

Often discussed as a Often discussed as a main ideamain idea when confined to the when confined to the parameters of the text.parameters of the text.

Often discussed as a Often discussed as a themetheme when presented in abstract when presented in abstract terms that go beyond the boundaries of the text.terms that go beyond the boundaries of the text.

Example: The main idea of Example: The main idea of Great ExpectationsGreat Expectations is that Pip is that Pip has to learn to judge others by evidence and not by has to learn to judge others by evidence and not by appearance, through which Dickens presents the theme appearance, through which Dickens presents the theme that humans create most of their own problems by being that humans create most of their own problems by being prejudice, pompous and placing importance on social status prejudice, pompous and placing importance on social status rather than on personal character.rather than on personal character.

ThesisThesis

In expository writing, the thesis In expository writing, the thesis statement is the sentence or group statement is the sentence or group of sentences that directly express of sentences that directly express the author’s opinion, purpose, the author’s opinion, purpose, meaning, or proportionmeaning, or proportion

tonetone

Author’s attitude toward subject Author’s attitude toward subject matter as revealed through style, matter as revealed through style, syntax, diction, figurative language, syntax, diction, figurative language, and organization.and organization.

Author’s tone creates mood in the Author’s tone creates mood in the text by use of the above tools.text by use of the above tools.

TransitionTransition

A word or phrase that links different A word or phrase that links different ideasideas

tricolontricolon

Sentence consisting of three parts of Sentence consisting of three parts of equal importance and length.equal importance and length.

Usually three independent clauses.Usually three independent clauses.

TrimeterTrimeter

A verse line consisting of three feetA verse line consisting of three feet

verisimilitudeverisimilitude The achievement of an illusion of reality in The achievement of an illusion of reality in

the audience. This is one of the “three the audience. This is one of the “three unities” of Italian and French drama: unity unities” of Italian and French drama: unity of place, unity of time, and unity of truth of place, unity of time, and unity of truth (the drama must have a sense of reality (the drama must have a sense of reality and believability in the audience).and believability in the audience).

The appearance of being true.The appearance of being true. Having a resemblance to truth, reality or Having a resemblance to truth, reality or

fact.fact. A statement which has the mere show of A statement which has the mere show of

being true or in accordance with fact; an being true or in accordance with fact; an apparent truth.apparent truth.

UnderstatementUnderstatement

The ironic minimalizing of fact, The ironic minimalizing of fact, presents something as less presents something as less significant than it issignificant than it is

WitWit

Intellectual and verbal deftness. Intellectual and verbal deftness. Emphaisis on imagination. Emphaisis on imagination. Intellectually amusing language that Intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.surprises and delights.

ZeugmaZeugma

A device that joins together two A device that joins together two apparently incongruous things by apparently incongruous things by applying a verb or adjective to both applying a verb or adjective to both which only really applies to one of which only really applies to one of themthem

““Kill the boys and the luggage” Kill the boys and the luggage” (Shakespeare’s (Shakespeare’s Henry VHenry V )s )s