VOCAB Flashcards
(71 cards)
What is direct characterisation?
The author explicitly describes a character’s traits (e.g., “She was kind and gentle”).
What is indirect characterisation?
The reader infers traits through a character’s actions, dialogue, thoughts, or how others react to them.
What is an archetype?
A universal character model or pattern (e.g., the hero, the mentor).
What is a foil in literature?
A character who contrasts with another, highlighting their traits.
What is a linear narrative?
Events are presented in chronological order.
What is a non-linear narrative?
Events are presented out of order (e.g., flashbacks, flashforwards).
What is conflict in a story?
The main problem driving the story, either internal (character vs. self) or external (character vs. other forces like society, nature, or another character).
What is foreshadowing?
Hints about events to come.
What is the climax of a story?
The turning point or moment of highest tension.
What is setting in literature?
The time, place, and social context of the story. Setting can contribute to the mood or act as a symbol.
What is pathetic fallacy?
Attributing human emotions to nature or the environment to reflect mood.
What is first-person narration?
The narrator is a character in the story (e.g., “I walked to the store”).
What is third-person limited narration?
The narrator knows the thoughts of one character.
What is third-person omniscient narration?
The narrator knows the thoughts of all characters.
What is an unreliable narrator?
A narrator whose credibility is questionable.
What is stream of consciousness?
A narrative style that mimics the flow of a character’s thoughts.
What is an intrusive narrator?
A narrator who interrupts the story to provide commentary.
What is imagery?
Descriptive language appealing to the senses (e.g., “The roses smelled sweet and filled the air with a heady aroma”).
What is figurative language?
Creative expressions that go beyond literal meaning, including:
What is a metaphor?
Direct comparison (e.g., “Her smile was sunshine”).
What is a simile?
Comparison using “like” or “as” (e.g., “He ran like the wind”).
What is personification?
Giving human qualities to non-human things (e.g., “The wind whispered through the trees”).
What is symbolism?
Using objects or characters to represent abstract ideas (e.g., a dove symbolizing peace).
What is a motif?
A recurring element, such as an image or idea, that reinforces themes.