Figurative Devices Review

Figurative Devices

• Symbolism: Represents abstract ideas through concrete symbols (e.g., red symbolizes passion or danger).
• Irony: Contradictory situations that reveal a stark contrast between appearance and reality (e.g., fire station burning down).
• Metaphor: Directly compares two unalike things without using "like" or "as" (e.g., "Life is a highway").
• Hyperbole: Intentional exaggeration for emphasis (e.g., “It’s raining cats and dogs”).
• Understatement: Minimizing the importance of a situation (e.g., "I have this tiny little tumor on the brain").
• Allusion: Reference to other literary works or figures (e.g., "he who shall not be named" referencing Voldemort).
• Allegory: Uses characters and events to symbolize broader concepts (e.g., "The wolf in sheep’s clothing").
• Imagery: Evokes sensory experiences through descriptive language (e.g., “His words felt like a dagger in my heart”).
• Motif: Recurring object or idea throughout a work.
• Juxtaposition: Comparative analysis through contrasting elements (e.g., light vs. darkness).

Character Types

• Flat/Static Characters: Simple characters that do not undergo significant change.
• Round/Dynamic Characters: Multi-faceted characters who experience substantial character development.
• Protagonist: Central character facing the main conflict of the story.
• Antagonist: Character who opposes or creates conflict for the protagonist.

Story Arc Structure

• Exposition: Introduction of characters and setting.
• Rising Action: Development of the conflict.
• Climax: The turning point or most intense moment of the story.
• Falling Action: Events following the climax leading towards resolution.
• Resolution: Conclusion of the story; conflict is resolved.

Writing Summaries

• Summary Template: Include title, author, and character details focused on problem, reaction, and resolution.
• Sample Summary: Include character conflict, how they react, and the outcome without quotes or informal language.
• Explicit Understanding: Organize plot chronologically to identify key elements.
• Implicit Understanding: Analyze character growth over plot development.
• Deconstructing a Unit Topic: Identify key questions for writing, address all components, and clarify keywords for deeper understanding.

This quiz explores key figurative devices such as symbolism and irony, highlighting their roles and examples in literature. Test your understanding of how these devices convey deeper meanings and enrich narratives. Perfect for students looking to enhance their literary analysis skills!