Common Literary terms / Rhetorical Devices

Front

What is denotation?

Back

The dictionary definition of a word - what a word literally means.

Front

What is a protagonist?

Back

The main character in a story, usually the 'good' person.

Front

What is a metaphor?

Back

A direct comparison of two things.

Front

What is alliteration?

Back

The repetition of the same initial consonant sounds in a sequence of words.

Front

What is a simile?

Back

A figure of speech that compares two different things using 'like' or 'as'.

Front

What is imagery?

Back

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses and creates a mental picture.

Front

What is personification?

Back

Attributing human characteristics to non-human entities or objects.

Front

What is an antagonist?

Back

A character or force that opposes the protagonist.

Front

What is hyperbole?

Back

An exaggerated statement not meant to be taken literally.

Front

What is symbolism?

Back

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.