Literary Terms Review

An idea that appears in a work briefly and gives way to another idea.

A relatively uncomplicated character who does not change throughout the story.

The part of the story after the climax and before the end of the story.

The difference between what you expect to happen and what actually happens.

3rd Person

What happens leading up to the most exciting part of a story. What happens before the climax.

A literary device in which a writer gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story

An individual in a story, novel, play, or movie.

When the author specifically reveals traits about the character.

The writer gives background information to the audience about the setting and characters

Complex characters who are hard to understand & develop & surprise the reader during a story.

Leading character or major character in a novel, story, or play. Also known as the “good guy”

A character who undergoes little or no inner change. Does not grow or develop much.

Idea that a writer repeats in his work, making it the most significant idea in a literary work.

Main idea or underlying meaning of a literary work that may be stated directly or indirectly

When a character struggles with outside forces trying to stop or block their progress.

Process that explains the details about a character

The narrator shows the reader the character through their actions, things they say

The highest, most intense point in a story. When the conflict reaches its peak point.

Character experiences 2 opposite emotions or desires. This conflict happens within one’s self.

The feelings or vibes readers get through words and description

Involves the use of either of the two pronouns “I” and “we”

Using figurative language to represent objects, actions, and ideas in order to appeal to senses

2nd Person

The position or outlook of the narrator in relation to the story.

A character who goes through important changes internally and develops throughout a story.

Anything that stands for something else.

The area where an event or story takes place.

The conclusion or outcome where all of the conflicts or problems are solved.

The character who is opposed to another opponent. Also known as the “bad guy.”