English literary techniques Flashcards
allegory
A story or narrative with two meanings; the obvious or literal meaning that is immediately clear, and a second, usually hidden meaning.
alliteration
Repetition of consonants at the beginning of successive words or within sentences/phrases to create a sense of rhythm, though they can be overdone (as in tongue twisters).
allusion
A subtle or passing reference to an event, person, place, other text, etc. that is intended to be noticed by readers (though isn’t always picked up on).
ambiguity
When something is left to the reader’s imagination. Often this involves the author not stating explicitly what is happening, what has been said, etc.
analogy
Uses two similar concepts or ideas to create a relationship or draw comparisons between the two.
characterisation
The process by which characters are introduced, described and then fully formed through their choices, interactions, etc.
Foreshadowing
The act of hinting at or setting up a situation, event or action that will later be extremely important in the narrative but doesn’t seem important at the time.
Linear and Non-Linear
This describes the way in which a narrative flows or is told.
Metaphor
Comparing two things by saying that one ‘is’ the other in order to draw stronger comparisons and often add a level of figurative meaning.
Motif
A motif is an idea, symbol, object, concept or theme that is always present throughout an entire text, playing a significant and/or symbolic role in the narrative.
Pathetic fallacy
This involves giving any non-human object or nature some kind of human feelings or senses.
Personification
The attributing of human characteristics to non-human objects, by which inanimate objects appear to have life and/or feelings.
Simile
Comparing two objects, and object and a person, etc. using ‘like’ or ‘as’ to draw parallels between them.
Symbolism
When an object, person, etc. represents a more complex idea, concept or theme.
endings
irony, reversals, twist, moral
