English Literature: Literary Devices &
Examples
1. Imagery
• Appeals to the senses to create vivid mental pictures.
• Example: 'The golden sun poured warmth onto the fields.'
2. Metaphor & Simile
• Metaphor: Direct comparison (e.g., 'Time is a thief').
• Simile: Comparison using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Her smile was like sunshine').
3. Alliteration & Assonance
• Alliteration: Repetition of consonant sounds (e.g., 'She sells sea shells').
• Assonance: Repetition of vowel sounds (e.g., 'The light of the fire is a sight').
4. Symbolism
• Objects or actions that represent deeper meanings.
• Example: A dove symbolizes peace.
5. Irony
• Situational: Outcome is opposite of expectation.
• Dramatic: Audience knows more than characters.
• Verbal: Saying the opposite of what is meant.
Examples
1. Imagery
• Appeals to the senses to create vivid mental pictures.
• Example: 'The golden sun poured warmth onto the fields.'
2. Metaphor & Simile
• Metaphor: Direct comparison (e.g., 'Time is a thief').
• Simile: Comparison using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Her smile was like sunshine').
3. Alliteration & Assonance
• Alliteration: Repetition of consonant sounds (e.g., 'She sells sea shells').
• Assonance: Repetition of vowel sounds (e.g., 'The light of the fire is a sight').
4. Symbolism
• Objects or actions that represent deeper meanings.
• Example: A dove symbolizes peace.
5. Irony
• Situational: Outcome is opposite of expectation.
• Dramatic: Audience knows more than characters.
• Verbal: Saying the opposite of what is meant.
