AP English Literature & Composition · Unit 1 · Symbolism, imagery, figurative language, tone, mood
Literary Elements & Devices: every key term you need
17 flashcard terms for AP English Literature & Composition Unit 1, written to match the course framework. Study them here, then drill them as interactive flashcards — free, no account needed.
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Literary Analysis Examine how author creates meaning through writing techniques. Analyze: plot, character, setting, symbolism, tone, theme, point of view.
Plot Structure Exposition (setup), rising action (complications), climax (turning point), falling action (resolution), denouement (final outcome).
Characterization How author develops character: direct description, actions, dialogue, internal thoughts, others' reactions. Dynamic (changes) vs static (unchanging).
Point of View (POV) First-person (I, unreliable/limited). Second-person (you, rare). Third-person (he/she, limited or omniscient). POV shapes what readers know.
Omniscient vs Limited Omniscient: narrator knows all character thoughts. Limited: sees through one character's perspective. Limited creates mystery/suspense.
Unreliable Narrator Narrator lies, misunderstands, or lacks information. Reader knows more than narrator. Creates irony, requires careful reading.
Setting Time, place, atmosphere. Contributes to mood, theme, character development. Historical/social context matters.
Symbolism Object/image represents abstract idea. Example: rose = love/beauty, darkness = evil/ignorance. Author uses repeatedly for emphasis.
Metaphor Direct comparison: \"She is a rose.\" Suggests qualities without using 'like' (that would be simile). Condensed, poetic.
Simile Comparison using 'like' or 'as': \"She is like a rose.\" Explicitly signals comparison; easier to identify than metaphor.
Imagery Vivid sensory descriptions: sight, sound, smell, taste, touch. Appeals to senses; creates emotional response, atmosphere.
Tone Author's attitude toward subject/audience. Conveyed through word choice, syntax, imagery. Influences reader interpretation.
Theme Central idea/message. Implicit (reader infers) not explicit. Example: \"Greed corrupts\" or \"Love conquers all.\" Universal to many stories.
Irony: Situational Reality contradicts expectations. Example: firefighter's house burns. Creates surprise, commentary on life.
Irony: Dramatic Reader knows more than character. Creates tension. Example: character walks into trap reader sees coming.
Irony: Verbal Saying opposite of what's meant; sarcasm. Example: \"Great job!\" when performance was terrible. Conveys criticism/humor.
Unit 1 Summary Analyze literature through lens of techniques: plot, character, POV, setting, symbolism, imagery, tone, theme. Author's choices create meaning.
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