About Literary Terms
Literary terms are tools for discussion. They help readers name patterns they already notice, such as foreshadowing, symbolism, tone, conflict, point of view, and theme. The goal is not memorizing labels but using them to explain evidence from a text.
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Plot
Plot is the arrangement of events.
Learn MoreCharacterization
Characterization is how a writer reveals character.
Learn MoreTheme
Theme is a larger idea explored by a work.
Learn MoreSymbolism
A symbol is something that carries meaning beyond its literal role.
Learn MoreIrony
Irony involves a meaningful gap between expectation and reality.
Learn MoreForeshadowing
Foreshadowing plants clues about later events.
Learn MorePoint of View
Point of view controls perspective and information.
Learn MoreTone
Tone is the attitude or feeling created by the writer's language.
Learn MorePlot
Readers can study exposition, rising action, turning points, climax, falling action, and resolution, though not every story follows the same structure.
Characterization
Direct description, action, speech, thoughts, relationships, and choices all contribute.
Theme
Theme differs from topic. Friendship is a topic, while a theme might explore how loyalty changes under pressure.
Symbolism
Objects, colors, places, weather, names, and repeated images can become symbolic through context.
Irony
Verbal, situational, and dramatic irony work differently. Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something a character does not.
Foreshadowing
A clue may be obvious or subtle. Good foreshadowing often becomes clearer after the reader knows the ending.
Point of View
First person, third-person limited, omniscient, and other approaches shape what readers can know.
Tone
Word choice, sentence rhythm, detail, imagery, and irony can make writing sound playful, formal, tense, sad, angry, warm, or detached.