Literary Terms and Examples

Front

Point of View (POV)

Back

The position from which the story is told. Example: First-person uses 'I' to tell the story; third-person uses 'he,' 'she,' or 'they.'

Front

Perspective

Back

How the narrator or a character sees and interprets events. Example: A child might describe a situation differently than an adult would.

Front

Symbolism

Back

When something represents a larger idea or meaning. Example: A heart might symbolize love or emotion.

Front

Flashback

Back

When the story jumps back to an earlier time. Example: A character remembers something from their childhood.

Front

Conflict

Back

The struggle between opposing forces. Example: A person torn between telling the truth or protecting a friend (man vs. self).

Front

Major Character

Back

A central and important figure in the story. Example: The main character whom the story follows throughout.

Front

Minor Character

Back

A character who supports the story but isn’t the focus. Example: a friend who gives advice or helps the main character.

Front

Theme

Back

The big idea, message, or lesson in a story. Example: Never give up, even when things are hard.

Front

Tone

Back

The author’s attitude toward the subject. For example, the tone might be playful, angry, serious, or joyful.

Front

Mood

Back

The feeling the reader gets while reading. For example, a dark forest at night might create a scary or tense mood.