What This Document Is
This glossary provides definitions of common literary terms, covering both literary *devices* – techniques authors use – and *forms* – categories of composition. It’s designed as a quick reference to support reading and analysis of literature.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is valuable for students in English (ENGL 1B) at Evergreen Valley College, and anyone encountering literary analysis. It’s particularly useful when you need a reminder of what a term *means* while reading a text or preparing for discussion. Understanding these terms is foundational to interpreting literature effectively. This glossary exists to streamline your reading process and build a shared vocabulary for literary discussion.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This glossary offers definitions, but it doesn’t provide in-depth analysis of *how* these terms function in specific texts. It won’t teach you *to* analyze literature, but rather provides the building blocks for that analysis. You’ll still need to apply these terms to actual works of literature to fully grasp their significance.
What This Document Provides
The full document includes definitions for terms like alliteration, allusion, characterization, dialect, flashback, figurative language (including simile, metaphor, hyperbole, and personification), free verse, foreshadowing, imagery, irony, onomatopoeia, point of view, satire, style, suspense, and symbol. It also defines literary forms such as autobiography, biography, comedy, drama, essay, and fable.
This preview does *not* include examples beyond those present in the source, nor does it cover all terms included in the complete glossary. It is a representative sample to illustrate the document’s scope and format.