a hint about future events in a plot

Foreshadowing

the author’s message or lesson in a story

theme

the atmosphere in a piece of writing that arouses emotions in the reader

mood

noting specific details that reveal setting, clothing ,speech, characteristics, and behaviors of a culture during a time in history.

Cultural context

a character, place, thing, or event that stands for something else

symbol

the time and place of where a story takes place

setting

a story or tale with two or more levels of meaning—a literal and symbolic meaning

allegory

descriptive or figurative language used in literature to create word pictures for the reader

imagery

difference between what is expected to happen and what actually happens

irony

a struggle between two opposing characters or forces in a story

conflict

a character that changes over the course of the story

Dynamic character

the way the author portrays characters through appearance, private feelings, actions, and dialogue.

Characteristics

point of view told from the narrator and uses I, my, me, mine

1st person point of view

point of view when the author addresses the reader; using you

2nd person point of view

point of view told by an outsider of the story and can see the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of all characters without becoming them; all knowing narrator

3rd person omniscient point of view

point of view told from one character’s point of view, but does not become the actual character

3rd person limited point of view

a character that has no change throughout the story

Static character

disapproval

Disapprobation

Sly or delicate

Mincingly

Without evidence; without proof;

speculation

Conjectural

Mental agitation; mental excitement;

frantic

frenzy

Foam; agitated liquid

froth

Calm; satisfy; relieve

appease

Busy; something has your attention

Preoccupation

Blocked; obstructed

Impeded

Stop; halt; pause

cessation

attachment

Appendage

“Masque of the Red Death”

Symbolism, allegory, comprehension

“Civil Peace”

Historical context, character, theme, and comprehension

“There Will Come Soft Rains”

Imagery, irony, theme, and comprehension

“To Build a Fire”

Imagery, foreshadowing, theme, conflict, character, point of view,

and comprehension