Literary Devices in English CP Freshman Literature

Literary Devices in English CP Freshman High School Literature

• Literary Devices are tools used by writers to create meaning and impact beyond the literal meaning of words. They enhance the story, characters, and themes.

• Figurative Language uses words or phrases in a non-literal way to create stronger imagery and depth. Examples include:

  • Metaphor: A comparison without using "like" or "as."
  • Simile: A comparison using "like" or "as."
  • Personification: Giving human qualities to non-human things.
  • Hyperbole: Exaggeration for effect.
  • Idiom: A phrase with a meaning not clear from its individual words.
  • Symbolism: Using an object or image to represent an idea or quality.

Characterization

• Direct Characterization: The author states a character's traits directly.

  • Example: "Sarah was kind and generous."

• Indirect Characterization: The author reveals traits through actions, thoughts, dialogue, and appearance.

  • Actions: A character's actions reveal their traits (e.g., volunteering demonstrates kindness).
  • Thoughts: Internal thoughts reveal motivations.
  • Dialogue: Words reveal personalities and attitudes.
  • Appearance: Physical descriptions suggest information.

Character Types

• Round Character: A complex character with many traits and often changes throughout the story. They are usually realistic and flawed.

• Flat Character: A simple character with few distinct traits. Their personality doesn't change significantly.

• Dynamic Character: A character who undergoes significant internal changes in the story. Character growth is vital.

• Static Character: A character who remains largely unchanged throughout the story.

Plot Structure

• Exposition: Introduces characters, setting, and the basic situation.

• Rising Action: Events and conflicts leading to the climax.

• Climax: The most intense point of the story, a turning point.

• Falling Action: Events after the climax that resolve conflicts.

• Resolution/Denouement: The outcome of the plot; loose ends are tied up.

Types of Poems

• Epic Poem: A long narrative poem about a hero's deeds and adventures, often with national significance. Epic poems use vivid language and themes, emphasizing cultural values.

• Elements in Epic Poems:

  • Focus on a significant hero with national importance
  • Vast plot dealing with epic journeys or events
  • Formal, grand language

Additional Literary Elements

• Theme: A central idea or message explored in the work.

• Setting: The time and place of the story, influencing plot and characters.

• Tone: The author's attitude toward the subject, conveyed through language.

Point of View

• First Person: The story told by a character using "I."

• Third Person Limited: The narrator focuses on one character's perspective.

• Third Person Omniscient: The narrator knows and reveals thoughts and feelings of all characters.

Explore essential literary devices used in English literature through this quiz designed for Freshman high school students. Understand how figurative language, symbolism, and characterization enhance storytelling and convey deeper meanings in writing.