AP English Literature and Composition Flashcards: Irony, paradox, oxymoron, understatement, and hyperbole
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Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
Define paradox.
A paradox is a statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper, latent truth upon closer inspection.
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Define paradox.
A paradox is a statement that appears self-contradictory but contains a deeper, latent truth upon closer inspection.
What literary device is present in the phrase "wise fool"?
The phrase "wise fool" is an oxymoron because it combines two contradictory terms to suggest a complex character who possesses a type of unconventional wisdom despite appearing foolish.
What are the three main types of irony?
The three main types are verbal irony (saying the opposite of what is meant), situational irony (when the outcome is the opposite of what is expected), and dramatic irony (when the audience knows something the characters do not).
What is understatement?
Understatement is the deliberate representation of something as smaller, less important, or less severe than it actually is, often used for ironic or comedic effect.
After winning the lottery, a character says, "I'm a little pleased with the outcome." What literary device is this an example of?
This is an example of understatement, as the character is deliberately downplaying their immense excitement and good fortune for ironic or humorous effect.
What is an oxymoron?
An oxymoron is a figure of speech that juxtaposes two apparently contradictory terms to create a new, complex meaning, essentially forming a compressed paradox.
What is the primary function of figurative language like hyperbole and understatement in a text?
These devices primarily function to create emphasis, add humor, or develop a specific tone. By distorting reality, they draw the reader's attention to a particular idea or emotion, making the narrative more vivid and impactful.
Define hyperbole.
Hyperbole is the intentional exaggeration of a statement for emphasis or humorous effect, not meant to be taken literally.
How does an oxymoron relate to a paradox?
An oxymoron is a condensed form of a paradox, combining two contradictory words into a single phrase (e.g., 'deafening silence'), whereas a paradox is a full statement or proposition that appears contradictory.
What is irony?
Irony is a literary device that uses words to express something other than, and often opposite to, their literal meaning, creating a contrast between appearance and reality.