Aesthetic Features And Stylistic Devices (Full List)

Definition: A literary technique in which the initial (first) consonant sounds of successive words within a sentence or phrase are repeated for artistic effect. This repetition creates a musical quality, rhythm, and emphasis, enhancing the overall impact and beauty of the language used.

Example: “Sally sells seashells by the seashore.”

Analysis: This is a popular and perfect example of alliteration. The repeated “s” sound in “Sally sells seashells by the seashore” adds a rhythmic and melodic quality to the sentence which makes it more memorable and more enjoyable to say out loud. This draws readers’ attention to the sentence and the characters and actions within it.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which vowel sounds of neighbouring words within a sentence or phrase are repeated. It is used to create a melodic and rhythmic effect, adding musicality and a sense of harmony to the text.

Example: “I must confess that in my quest, I felt depressed and restless.”

Analysis: In this famous example, the repetition of the “e” and “i” vowel sounds in successive words demonstrates the use of assonance and contributes to the smooth flow of the sentence, creating a musical and ‘flowing’ effect. Like in this example, poets often use assonance to achieve a rhythmic auditory effect that engages readers’ senses.

Example: “At about ten o’clock in the morning the sun threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows, and in and out of the beam flies shot like rushing stars” (Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck).

Analysis: John Steinbeck is the king of imagery. In this excerpt, Steinbeck’s use of metaphor and personification in “threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows,” and his use of simile in “flies shot like rushing stars,” paints a vivid picture of a specific moment in the setting. Through this use of imagery, readers are deeply immersed in the scene and are positioned to visualise everything that is unfolding as if they were there themselves.

Definition: An aesthetic feature that involves drawing a comparison between two dissimilar things or concepts without using “like” or “as.” It is a figure of speech that provides a deeper and symbolic meaning by suggesting a resemblance between the two elements. Metaphors enrich the language, add layers of meaning, and invite readers to explore connections beyond the literal interpretation.

Example:

“All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts.”
(As You Like It, William Shakespeare)

Analysis: From Shakespeare’s classic As You Like It, a metaphorical comparison is made between “the world” and “a stage” and also between “men and women” and “players.” By using metaphors to equate life to a stage and the men and women within it to players, Shakespeare suggests that life is akin to a theatrical performance where people play different roles throughout their existence. This aesthetic feature positions readers to question ideas such as fate, mortality and the transient nature of human experience.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which human qualities, characteristics, or actions are attributed to non-human entities. Through personification, writers give non-human elements human-like attributes, enabling readers to relate to and understand them on a deeper level. Personification adds depth, vividness, and emotional resonance to descriptions, making the language more engaging and relatable.

Example: “The wind whispered through the trees, singing a gentle lullaby.”

Analysis: In this quote, the author uses personification to give the wind the human attributes of “whispering” and “singing.” By ascribing these attributes to the wind, the writer personifies it as though it were a human being and creates a vivid image of the wind gently rustling the leaves of the trees and creating a gentle, soothing sound. The use of personification enhances the description of the wind, making it more dynamic and captivating for the reader.

Definition: An aesthetic feature that makes a comparison between two different things or concepts, specifically using the words “like” or “as”. It is a figure of speech that highlights similarities between the two elements, creating vivid and imaginative comparisons. Similes add depth to descriptions and give readers insight into the author’s perspective.

Example: “Her smile was as bright as the sun.”

Analysis: In this simile, a comparison is made between “her smile” and “the sun.” The word “as” in the simile is used to draw parallels between the girl’s smile and the radiance of the sun. Thus, the simile emphasises the intensity and warmth of her smile, conveying a sense of joy and positivity. Through the simile, the author evokes a clear image of the girl’s smile in readers’ minds which enhances the emotional impact of the description and makes it more memorable and palpable.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which objects, characters, events, or settings are used to represent abstract concepts beyond their literal meaning. Through the use of symbols, writers imbue their work with deeper layers of meaning and evoke emotions and themes that go beyond the surface narrative.

Example: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan’s dock serves as a potent symbol throughout the story. The green light represents the elusive American Dream, the yearning for wealth, success, and a better life.

Analysis: For Jay Gatsby, the novel’s protagonist, the green light is a constant reminder of his pursuit of Daisy, his lost love. Daisy, who lives across the bay from Gatsby, is associated with the green light as it shines from the dock of her home. The green light becomes a symbol of Gatsby’s hopes and aspirations, as well as his desire to recreate the past and win back Daisy’s love. The light’s distant and ethereal nature represents the impossibility of fully grasping one’s desires and the fleeting nature of the American Dream.

Definition: An aesthetic feature involving the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental images and sensory experiences in readers’ minds. Writers use this aesthetic feature to evoke emotions, appeal to readers’ senses, and provide a deeper understanding of the setting, characters, and themes in a literary work.

Example: “At about ten o’clock in the morning the sun threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows, and in and out of the beam flies shot like rushing stars” (Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck).

Analysis: John Steinbeck is the king of imagery. In this excerpt, Steinbeck’s use of metaphor and personification in “threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows,” and his use of simile in “flies shot like rushing stars,” paints a vivid picture of a specific moment in the setting. Through this use of imagery, readers are deeply immersed in the scene and are positioned to visualise everything that is unfolding as if they were there themselves.

Definition: An aesthetic feature that involves a discrepancy between what is expected to happen and what actually occurs. It is a figure of speech that employs contradictions or contrasts to create a humorous or thought-provoking effect. Irony is often used by writers to convey deeper meaning, highlight absurdities, or provoke critical thinking and emotional responses from the reader.

Example: In George Orwell’s dystopian novel Animal Farm, the phrase “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others” exemplifies a powerful use of situational irony.

Analysis: In the novel, the phrase is displayed on the barn wall which reveals the hypocrisy of the pigs’ leadership. The use of “more equal” is a direct contradiction, highlighting the absurdity of the animals’ attempts to maintain power while ignoring the core principle of equality they once championed. Through this ironic statement, Orwell satirises the abuse of power from the pigs and the erosion of ideals in political systems. The novel serves as an allegory for the rise of totalitarianism and a commentary on the nature of authority and corruption.

Definition: An aesthetic feature that involves drawing a comparison between two dissimilar things or concepts without using “like” or “as.” It is a figure of speech that provides a deeper and symbolic meaning by suggesting a resemblance between the two elements. Metaphors enrich the language, add layers of meaning, and invite readers to explore connections beyond the literal interpretation.

Example:

“All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts.”
(As You Like It, William Shakespeare)

Analysis: From Shakespeare’s classic As You Like It, a metaphorical comparison is made between “the world” and “a stage” and also between “men and women” and “players.” By using metaphors to equate life to a stage and the men and women within it to players, Shakespeare suggests that life is akin to a theatrical performance where people play different roles throughout their existence. This positions readers to question ideas such as fate, mortality and the transient nature of human experience.

Definition: A recurring symbol, theme, or object that holds significant meaning and comes up again and again throughout a narrative. Motifs can be images, objects, words, phrases, actions, or ideas that appear repeatedly and contribute to the overall meaning and message of the work. Writers use motifs to emphasise certain aspects of the story, develop characters, and help readers to understand their central message.

Example: One of the prominent motifs in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is the mockingbird itself. The mockingbird is introduced early in the story through the wise advice given by Atticus Finch to his children, Jem and Scout. He tells them that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but sing beautiful songs for people to enjoy.

Analysis: Throughout the novel, the mockingbird becomes a powerful symbol representing innocence, purity, and vulnerability. For example, Lee draws parallels between Tom Robinson and the mockingbird throughout the text. Tom is a black man falsely accused of a crime, and the comparison between him and the mockingbird serves to affirm his innocence in readers’ minds. Overall, the motif reminds readers of the underlying themes of injustice, prejudice, and the destructive nature of prejudice and cruelty.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which human qualities, characteristics, or actions are attributed to non-human entities. Through personification, writers give non-human elements human-like attributes, enabling readers to relate to and understand them on a deeper level. Personification adds depth, vividness, and emotional resonance to descriptions, making the language more engaging and relatable.

Example: “The wind whispered through the trees, singing a gentle lullaby.”

Analysis: In this quote, the author uses personification to give the wind the human attributes of “whispering” and “singing.” By ascribing these attributes to the wind, the writer personifies it as though it were a human being and creates a vivid image of the wind gently rustling the leaves of the trees and creating a gentle, soothing sound. The use of personification enhances the description of the wind, making it more dynamic and captivating for the reader.

Definition: How characters, events, settings, or ideas are portrayed in a narrative. It involves the use of language, imagery, and storytelling techniques to present these elements to the reader. Representation plays a crucial role in shaping the reader’s understanding and perception of the story, setting, and key characters and gives readers’ an insight into the world of the text.

Example: In the novel Beloved by Toni Morrison, the author masterfully explores the theme of slavery and its lasting impact on African American communities in the United States. One powerful aspect of representation in the book is the portrayal of Sethe, a former slave who escaped to freedom but continues to grapple with the trauma of her past.

Analysis: Sethe’s experiences are vividly conveyed throughout the novel, allowing readers to empathise with her struggles and recognise the profound injustices faced by African Americans during that historical period. Morrison also uses representation through her use of multiple narrative perspectives, including that of Beloved, the ghostly presence that haunts Sethe and her family.

Beloved’s representation as a vengeful spirit embodies the unresolved trauma of slavery and the spectre of the past that continues to shape the present. The novel’s exploration of different characters, their experiences, and the broader historical context sheds light on the harsh realities of the past but also celebrates the strength and spirit of the novel’s main protagonists.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which objects, characters, events, or settings are used to represent abstract concepts beyond their literal meaning. Through the use of symbols, writers imbue their work with deeper layers of meaning and evoke emotions and themes that go beyond the surface narrative.

Example: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan’s dock serves as a potent symbol throughout the story. The green light represents the elusive American Dream, the yearning for wealth, success, and a better life.

Analysis: For Jay Gatsby, the novel’s protagonist, the green light is a constant reminder of his pursuit of Daisy, his lost love. Daisy, who lives across the bay from Gatsby, is associated with the green light as it shines from the dock of her home. The green light becomes a symbol of Gatsby’s hopes and aspirations, as well as his desire to recreate the past and win back Daisy’s love. The light’s distant and ethereal nature represents the impossibility of fully grasping one’s desires and the fleeting nature of the American Dream.

Definition: An aesthetic feature involving the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental images and sensory experiences in readers’ minds. Writers use this aesthetic feature to evoke emotions, appeal to readers’ senses, and provide a deeper understanding of the setting, characters, and themes in a literary work.

Example: “At about ten o’clock in the morning the sun threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows, and in and out of the beam flies shot like rushing stars” (Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck).

Analysis: John Steinbeck is the king of imagery. In this excerpt, Steinbeck’s use of metaphor and personification in “threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows,” and his use of simile in “flies shot like rushing stars,” paints a vivid picture of a specific moment in the setting. Through this use of imagery, readers are deeply immersed in the scene and are positioned to visualise everything that is unfolding as if they were there themselves.

Definition: A recurring symbol, theme, or object that holds significant meaning and comes up again and again throughout a narrative. Motifs can be images, objects, words, phrases, actions, or ideas that appear repeatedly and contribute to the overall meaning and message of the work. Writers use motifs to emphasise certain aspects of the story, develop characters, and help readers to understand their central message.

Example: One of the prominent motifs in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is the mockingbird itself. The mockingbird is introduced early in the story through the wise advice given by Atticus Finch to his children, Jem and Scout. He tells them that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but sing beautiful songs for people to enjoy.

Analysis: Throughout the novel, the mockingbird becomes a powerful symbol representing innocence, purity, and vulnerability. For example, Lee draws parallels between Tom Robinson and the mockingbird throughout the text. Tom is a black man falsely accused of a crime, and the comparison between him and the mockingbird serves to affirm his innocence in readers’ minds. Overall, the motif reminds readers of the underlying themes of injustice, prejudice, and the destructive nature of prejudice and cruelty.

Definition: Used in persuasive speeches, it involves the use of rhetorical devices, figures of speech, and persuasive techniques to convey ideas and arguments in a compelling manner. Rhetoric is not just limited to verbal communication but also extends to written, visual, and nonverbal forms of expression.

Example: In Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic speech, I Have a Dream, delivered during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963, he masterfully employs various rhetorical devices to convey his message of racial equality and justice. The speech is a powerful example of how rhetoric can move hearts and minds and inspire positive change.

Analysis: One of the most famous rhetorical devices used in the speech is anaphora, the repetition of a phrase at the beginning of successive sentences. King repeats the phrase “I have a dream” multiple times, emphasising his vision for a future free from racial discrimination. King also uses powerful imagery and metaphors to paint a vivid picture of his dream to appeal to listeners’ emotions.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which objects, characters, events, or settings are used to represent abstract concepts beyond their literal meaning. Through the use of symbols, writers imbue their work with deeper layers of meaning and evoke emotions and themes that go beyond the surface narrative.

Example: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan’s dock serves as a potent symbol throughout the story. The green light represents the elusive American Dream, the yearning for wealth, success, and a better life.

Analysis: For Jay Gatsby, the novel’s protagonist, the green light is a constant reminder of his pursuit of Daisy, his lost love. Daisy, who lives across the bay from Gatsby, is associated with the green light as it shines from the dock of her home. The green light becomes a symbol of Gatsby’s hopes and aspirations, as well as his desire to recreate the past and win back Daisy’s love. The light’s distant and ethereal nature represents the impossibility of fully grasping one’s desires and the fleeting nature of the American Dream.

Definition: The creation and selection of clothing and accessories worn by actors and performers to visually represent characters or convey specific time periods, cultures, or themes. Costumes play a significant role in characterisation, and are also used to establish the setting and historical context of productions.

Example: In the film Black Panther (2018), directed by Ryan Coogler, the costuming plays a pivotal role in the characterisation of the protagonists, and immerses viewers in the nation of Wakanda.

Analysis: The film’s costumes were designed to blend traditional African influences with futuristic elements, reflecting the technologically advanced yet culture-rich society of Wakanda. Each character’s costume was designed to showcase their personality, status, and cultural background. For instance, the protagonist (Black Panther) dons a vibranium-infused suit that exudes strength and agility, embodying his role as the protector of Wakanda. Overall, the costuming develops both the setting and characters of the film, and immerses viewers in the story.

Definition: The post-production process of refining the raw footage or scenes shot during film production to create a cohesive and visually compelling narrative. It is a crucial stage in filmmaking that shapes the final structure, pace, and emotional impact of the movie.

Example: In the film Inception (2010), directed by Christopher Nolan, the editing plays a vital role in creating a complex and immersive narrative. One of the most striking examples of editing in the film occurs during the famous sequence known as the “Inception” sequence.

Analysis: In this sequence, the main characters engage in a high-stakes heist that takes place within multiple layers of dreams. Each level of the dream operates at a different pace, creating a sense of time dilation and heightened suspense.

As the characters dive deeper into the dreams, the editing becomes increasingly dynamic and skilful. Quick cuts and cross-cutting are employed to switch between the different dream levels, seamlessly blending the action in each layer. The editing builds tension and a sense of urgency and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the sequence.

Definition: An aesthetic feature involving the use of vivid and descriptive language to create mental images and sensory experiences in readers’ minds. Writers use this aesthetic feature to evoke emotions, appeal to readers’ senses, and provide a deeper understanding of the setting, characters, and themes in a literary work.

Example: “At about ten o’clock in the morning the sun threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows, and in and out of the beam flies shot like rushing stars” (Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck).

Analysis: John Steinbeck is the king of imagery. In this excerpt, Steinbeck’s use of metaphor and personification in “threw a bright dust-laden bar through one of the side windows,” and his use of simile in “flies shot like rushing stars,” paints a vivid picture of a specific moment in the setting. Through this use of imagery, readers are deeply immersed in the scene and are positioned to visualise everything that is unfolding as if they were there themselves.

Definition: A recurring symbol, theme, or object that holds significant meaning and comes up again and again throughout a narrative. Motifs can be images, objects, words, phrases, actions, or ideas that appear repeatedly and contribute to the overall meaning and message of the work. Writers use motifs to emphasise certain aspects of the story, develop characters, and help readers to understand their central message.

Example: One of the prominent motifs in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is the mockingbird itself. The mockingbird is introduced early in the story through the wise advice given by Atticus Finch to his children, Jem and Scout. He tells them that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but sing beautiful songs for people to enjoy.

Analysis: Throughout the novel, the mockingbird becomes a powerful symbol representing innocence, purity, and vulnerability. For example, Lee draws parallels between Tom Robinson and the mockingbird throughout the text. Tom is a black man falsely accused of a crime, and the comparison between him and the mockingbird serves to affirm his innocence in readers’ minds. Overall, the motif reminds readers of the underlying themes of injustice, prejudice, and the destructive nature of prejudice and cruelty.

Definition: The art of capturing and creating images. Photography goes far beyond just clicking a button on a camera – photographers spend countless hours perfecting the framing, angles, contrast, lighting and several other aspects of each and every shot to produce meaningful visual representations of significant events, people or places.

Example: An iconic example of the power of photography is the photograph titled Afghan Girl taken by National Geographic photographer Steve McCurry in 1984.

Analysis: The photograph features the captivating portrait of a young Afghan girl with piercing green eyes and a striking expression. The girl’s face is partially covered by a vibrant red scarf, adding a splash of colour to the otherwise muted background. Her eyes seem to pierce through the lens, conveying a sense of resilience and depth that captivates viewers. The image communicates the universal theme of human struggle and resilience, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. McCurry’s photograph is a perfect example of how photography can evoke empathy, raise awareness, and tell a profound story without the need for words.

Definition: A written script that serves as the blueprint for a film or television production. It is a specialised form of writing that lays out the dialogue, actions, and visual elements of a story, designed to guide the cast and crew in bringing the story to life on the screen.

Example: A classic example of a screenplay is from the opening scene of Pulp Fiction (1994) by Quentin Tarantino. The screenplay introduces the setting of the coffee shop, and describes the setting in detail as a typical American diner in Los Angeles. It also describes the shot types, and introduces the characters and their personalities.

Analysis: In this scene, the screenplay provides specific instructions for the scene’s location (“INT. COFFEE SHOP”), the characters present (Yolanda, Kids, Parents, Manager, Melanie), and their actions (Yolanda’s robbery, and the reactions of the other characters). The dialogue is written in a manner that conveys the characters’ emotions and motivations, while also guiding the actors on their performances.

Definition: An aesthetic feature in which objects, characters, events, or settings are used to represent abstract concepts beyond their literal meaning. Through the use of symbols, writers imbue their work with deeper layers of meaning and evoke emotions and themes that go beyond the surface narrative.

Example: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan’s dock serves as a potent symbol throughout the story. The green light represents the elusive American Dream, the yearning for wealth, success, and a better life.

Analysis: For Jay Gatsby, the novel’s protagonist, the green light is a constant reminder of his pursuit of Daisy, his lost love. Daisy, who lives across the bay from Gatsby, is associated with the green light as it shines from the dock of her home. The green light becomes a symbol of Gatsby’s hopes and aspirations, as well as his desire to recreate the past and win back Daisy’s love. The light’s distant and ethereal nature represents the impossibility of fully grasping one’s desires and the fleeting nature of the American Dream.

🎭 Dramatic Devices

Costuming

Definition: The creation and selection of clothing and accessories worn by actors and performers to visually represent characters or convey specific time periods, cultures, or themes. Costumes play a significant role in characterisation, and are also used to establish the setting and historical context of productions.

Example: In the film Black Panther (2018), directed by Ryan Coogler, the costuming plays a pivotal role in the characterisation of the protagonists, and immerses viewers in the nation of Wakanda.

Analysis: The film’s costumes were designed to blend traditional African influences with futuristic elements, reflecting the technologically advanced yet culture-rich society of Wakanda. Each character’s costume was designed to showcase their personality, status, and cultural background. For instance, the protagonist (Black Panther) dons a vibranium-infused suit that exudes strength and agility, embodying his role as the protector of Wakanda. Overall, the costuming develops both the setting and characters of the film, and immerses viewers in the story.

Dialogue

Definition: Involves the words used in conversations between two or more characters in a literary work, such as a play, novel, or screenplay. It is a crucial element of storytelling and is used to reveal characters’ thoughts, emotions, motivations, and relationships.

Example: “You’re a wizard, Harry.” (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone).

Analysis: In this brief yet iconic dialogue, Hagrid reveals to Harry Potter his true identity as a wizard. The simplicity of the sentence carries immense significance in the story, marking the beginning of Harry’s journey from Muggle to Wizard. The dialogue not only unveils Harry’s heritage but also sets the entire plot in motion, as he embarks on a life-changing path to Hogwarts. It encapsulates the essence of the narrative, where the ordinary boy unexpectedly discovers his extraordinary destiny.

Motif

Definition: A recurring symbol, theme, or object that holds significant meaning and comes up again and again throughout a narrative. Motifs can be images, objects, words, phrases, actions, or ideas that appear repeatedly and contribute to the overall meaning and message of the work. Writers use motifs to emphasise certain aspects of the story, develop characters, and help readers to understand their central message.

Example: One of the prominent motifs in Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is the mockingbird itself. The mockingbird is introduced early in the story through the wise advice given by Atticus Finch to his children, Jem and Scout. He tells them that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but sing beautiful songs for people to enjoy.

Analysis: Throughout the novel, the mockingbird becomes a powerful symbol representing innocence, purity, and vulnerability. For example, Lee draws parallels between Tom Robinson and the mockingbird throughout the text. Tom is a black man falsely accused of a crime, and the comparison between him and the mockingbird serves to affirm his innocence in readers’ minds. Overall, the motif reminds readers of the underlying themes of injustice, prejudice, and the destructive nature of prejudice and cruelty.

Style

Definition: Style in literature refers to the distinctive and unique way in which a writer expresses their narrative. It encompasses the author’s use of language, syntax, tone, and literary techniques to create a particular mood or atmosphere in their work.

Example: “Many years later, as he faced the firing squad, Colonel Aureliano Buendía was to remember that distant afternoon when his father took him to discover ice.” (One Hundred Years of Solitude, Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s).

Analysis: Marquez’s style is characterised by its lyrical and evocative nature. The sentence begins with a glimpse of a future event, where Colonel Aureliano Buendía faces a firing squad, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue from the outset. Marquez then delves into a nostalgic recollection of the past, describing a moment from Colonel Buendía’s childhood when his father introduced him to the concept of ice. The poetic and dreamlike quality of Marquez’s prose is emblematic of his unique style. His use of magical realism, a literary technique where magical elements blend seamlessly with the real world, contributes to the enchanting atmosphere that pervades his works.

Definition: Text structure refers to the way in which an author organises their text. It encompasses the arrangement of ideas, concepts, and information within the text, and can often follow a number of preset “templates” depending on the text’s purpose. Deviations from these expectations are sometimes used to add a layer of complexity and deeper meaning.

Narrative Structure: This text structure is used to tell a story or recount a series of events. It typically includes characters, a setting, a plot with a sequence of events, and a resolution. Fictional stories, personal anecdotes, and historical accounts often follow a narrative structure.

Expository Structure: Expository text presents factual information, explanations, or descriptions about a topic. It aims to inform and educate the audience. Articles in textbooks, encyclopaedias, and scientific papers often adopt an expository structure.

Persuasive Structure: Also known as argumentative structure, this text type aims to persuade the audience to accept the writer’s point of view or take specific action. It presents reasons, evidence, and appeals to emotions to support the author’s argument.

Definition: A rhetorical device that involves placing two contrasting elements or ideas side by side to create a striking comparison or emphasise their differences. It is a technique used to draw attention to the stark contrast between the juxtaposed elements, often to convey deeper meaning, create irony, or evoke specific emotions in readers.

Example: In The Shawshank Redemption, directed by Frank Darabont, juxtaposition is effectively used to contrast the bleak and oppressive environment of the penitentiary with moments of hope and freedom experienced by the inmates.

Analysis: Throughout the film, the penitentiary is portrayed as a dark and gloomy place, with its high walls, barbed wire fences, and strict rules creating a sense of confinement and despair. The harsh treatment of the prisoners and the oppressive nature of the institution emphasise the hopelessness and portray a sense of entrapment.

Darabont then juxtaposes powerful moments of escape and freedom against this grim backdrop. One powerful example is when the protagonist manages to escape from the prison through a tunnel. As he crawls through the sewage pipe toward freedom, the film cuts between his journey and shots of the pouring rain, symbolising a cleansing and renewal. This juxtaposition of the dark and oppressive prison environment with moments of hope and freedom emphasises both his resilience and his suffering.

Definition: Narration refers to the viewpoint from which a story is told. It involves the act of narrating or telling a story from a particular perspective, often using a narrator as the voice through which the events unfold. The three most common types are first-person, third-person limited, and third-person omniscient.

First-Person Narration: In first-person narration, the story is told from the perspective of a character within the narrative. The narrator uses first-person pronouns like “I” or “we” to convey their personal experiences and observations. Example: As I reached the bridge, I slowed my pace so that I could smell the familiar scent of the dandelions.

Third-Person Limited Narration: With third-person limited narration, the story is told from an external perspective, but the narrator only has access to the thoughts and feelings of one particular character. The narrator uses third-person pronouns like “he,” “she,” or “they” to describe the events and actions. Example: “The man reached the bridge and slowed his pace slightly so as to allow the familiar scent of dandelions to enter his nose.”

Third-Person Omniscient Narration: In contrast to third-person limited, third-person omniscient narration allows the narrator to have access to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of multiple characters. The narrator uses third-person pronouns and can provide insights into various characters’ emotions and motivations. Example: “As the man reached the bridge, a small group of children began playing hopscotch in the park nearby.”

Definition: Involves the process of creating and developing fictional characters to portray their personality, traits, motivations, and complexities to readers. Effective characterisation helps to make characters more relatable to readers and positions them to perceive the characters in particular ways.

Example: Sherlock Holmes is portrayed as an intelligent, observant, and eccentric detective with exceptional deductive reasoning skills. He is known for his keen eye for detail, his ability to draw accurate conclusions from seemingly insignificant clues, and his unorthodox methods of investigation.

Analysis: Sherlock Holmes’ characterisation is developed through various techniques. The detective’s unique way of thinking and sharp wit are demonstrated through his dialogues, where he often surprises others with his quick deductions and cryptic statements. His interactions with his friend and confidante, Dr. John Watson, reveal his complex personality, including his aloofness and occasional disregard for social norms. Holmes’ actions, such as his habit of playing the violin to focus his mind or his keen interest in solving challenging cases, further deepen readers’ insight into his personality.

Definition: Creative and expressive techniques used in writing to add depth, vividness, and imagery to the language. These devices depart from the literal meanings of words and phrases and instead create imaginative comparisons, associations, or representations.

All of the aesthetic features above such as metaphors, similes, personification, imagery and alliteration are great examples of figurative devices. The author’s overall use of figurative devices (or aesthetic features) frame their writing in a particular way which allows them to develop their own style. One writer with a particularly iconic style is John Steinbeck.

Example: John Steinbeck’s literary style involves highly descriptive metaphors, imagery and figurative language to describe settings. His focus on settings and expanding on extremely minute details such as the way a rabbit is sitting on the horizon (which he explores through imagery) aids readers in feeling truly immersed in his texts as if they were there themselves.

Definition: Rhetorical devices are literary techniques used to persuade, evoke emotions, or create a memorable effect on the audience (usually in speeches). Rhetorical devices are designed to enhance the impact of the message by appealing to the audience’s logic, emotions, or ethics.

Many of the aesthetic features we discussed above are rhetorical devices. For example, metaphor, alliteration, and irony are all rhetorical devices. As a stylistic device, the QCAA is likely referring to the author’s overall use of rhetorical devices to achieve a particular goal (usually to persuade).

Repetition: One of the most common rhetorical devices in speeches, this involves the deliberate repetition of words, phrases, or ideas to reinforce a point and make it more memorable. Example: Repetition of “I have a dream” in the famous I Have a Dream speech by Martin Luther King Jr.

Anaphora: A specific form of repetition in which the same word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of successive clauses. Example: “We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets…” It also serves to make the speaker’s message more memorable for their audience.

Hyperbole: An exaggeration used for emphasis or to create a dramatic effect. Example: “I’ve told you a million times not to do that!” Hyperbole is also common is speeches, and may be introduced unexpectedly to drive the speaker’s point home for listeners.

Definition: The structure and length of sentences used in writing or speech. It is an essential aspect of writing, as varying the length and form of sentences can significantly impact the overall effectiveness and style of the message. Skilled writers vary the length and form of sentences to create a unique flow that’s appropriate for the content.

Sentence Length

Short Sentences: Short sentences typically contain only one main idea or a simple statement. They are concise and direct, making them easy to understand and impactful. Short sentences are often used for emphasis, to create a sense of urgency, or to evoke strong emotions. Example: “I love you.”

Long Sentences: Long sentences contain multiple clauses and may involve complex ideas or descriptions. They allow for more intricate expression and can build a sense of continuity or flow in the writing. Example: “After a long day of hiking through the dense forest, feeling the sun’s warmth on my skin and hearing the birds chirping in the distance, I finally reached the magnificent waterfall, its cascading waters mesmerising and creating a tranquil atmosphere.”

Sentence Form

Simple Sentence: A simple sentence consists of one independent clause, which is a complete thought or a complete idea. Example: “She sings beautifully.” This may be used to drive home a point or reveal an important message.

Compound Sentence: A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). Example: “He wanted to go to the park, but it was raining.”

Complex Sentence: A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, which cannot stand alone as a complete thought. Example: “Although she was tired, she stayed up late to finish her project.”

Definition: Refer to established patterns of how texts are commonly written. Authors often stick to established patterns, though they may sometimes deviate from them to create a unique work and subvert readers’ expectations.

Common Patterns

Hero’s Journey: A narrative pattern where a protagonist embarks on an adventure, faces challenges, undergoes transformation, and returns home with newfound wisdom. This pattern is common in stories and fictional narratives.

Coming-of-Age: A pattern depicting the growth and maturation of a central character, typically from adolescence to adulthood. Also very common in fictional works.

Tragic Flaw: A recurring motif where a character’s inherent flaw or weakness leads to their downfall. This literary pattern may be found in fiction, but it’s also common for non-fictional works such as biographies.

Common Variations

Reversals of Roles: Instead of following the conventional roles of hero and villain, authors may reverse these roles to challenge reader expectations.

Unconventional Endings: Authors may choose unconventional or ambiguous endings that leave readers with unanswered questions or alternative interpretations. This makes the endings more memorable for readers, and encourages them to come back (if the work is part of a series).

Time Manipulation: Non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or time jumps can disrupt the chronological sequence, providing a fresh perspective on the events. Perhaps the jumps may also jump between different characters’ viewpoints. This variation is common in crime thrillers.

Definition: Literary techniques that focus on the use of sound patterns, rhythm, and repetition. These devices are employed to create auditory effects, enhance the musicality of language, and add a layer of meaning or emotional impact to the text.

Many of the aesthetic features we mentioned are common sound devices. These introduce a sense of rhythm or musicality into text, and include alliteration, assonance and repetition.

Rhyme: The repetition of similar sounds, usually at the end of words. Example: “Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are.” As seen, this is common in nursery rhymes, poems, and songs.

Onomatopoeia: The use of words that imitate or mimic the sounds they represent. Example: “The buzz of bees filled the air.” Sometimes authors will make their own unique onomatopoeia.

Cacophony: The use of harsh, jarring, or dissonant sounds to create a sense of chaos or discomfort. Example: “The screeching brakes, honking horns, and blaring sirens filled the city streets.”

Meter: The rhythmic structure of a poem, determined by the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables. Example: “Shall I / compare / thee to / a sum / mer’s day?”

Definition: Devices or techniques used in film to frame certain scenes, characters, or events in particular ways — include editing, angles, close-up vs distance shots, framing, lighting, and more.

Different visual devices are used in different ways. For instance, a high-angle shot above a character creates a sense of weakness or defeat while a low-angle shot emphasises a character’s height, power and dominance. Low, dark lighting may be used in a horror film or in a sad scene while bright lighting may be used in a joyous scene. They are used consistently throughout a film to draw the viewer’s attention to specific elements or concepts.

View Our English Visual Techniques List