1. The central topic/main idea for a piece of literature
Theme
The highest point of action or interest; the most important part.
Climax
The feelings or attitudes a writer uses for a certain topic. Showed through word choice and viewpoint
Tone

2. The issue, or struggle, or thing to be solved; something that a character has to work against
Conflict
The conclusion of a story; where the conflict comes to an end/solution
Resolution
The main events of a novel, story, drama, or other piece of writing
Plot

3. Character(s), elements, or situations that oppose or hold up or creates opposition for the protagonist(s)
Antagonist
Exaggerated statements, or ideas; used to show impact of a situation
Hyperbole
A comparison between two things using “like” or “as”
Simile

4. Giving human like qualities or characteristics to something that is not human.
Personification
Technique to give readers an idea of what might happen later in the story.
Foreshadow
Using words and descriptions to give the reader certain feelings, vibes, or emotions
Mood

5. In the plot, the series of events or actions that create tension, interest, or complications for the characters (where things are starting to get good)
Rising Action
The part of a story after the climax that works toward the resolution (problems get solved, things come together)
Falling Action
A comparison that says one thing is something else. Meant to a deeper meaning or representation.
Metaphor

6. A piece of literature (story, poem) that is analyzed to find a hidden meaning or message (often political)
Allegory
The use of symbols or objects to represent a deeper meaning or idea. Can include things like colors, objects, weather, animals, etc.
Symbolism
A noticeable feature or dominant idea that reoccurs through out a text
Motif

7. Where the story takes place
Where the story takes place. Includes things like season, time (period/of day), etc.
Setting
The use of words and details to create an image in the readers’ minds.
Imagery
The leading character of characters in a piece of literature (drama, movie, or fiction); the most prominent figure
Protagonist

8. What literary techniques do you notice?
A woman is sitting in her old, shuttered house. She knows that she is alone in the whole world; every other thing is dead.
The doorbell rings.