Literature: English Vocabulary List

a form of humor in which the words that someone says mean the opposite, producing an emphatic effect

"The irony made everyone laugh."

"Situational irony involves an unexpected"

the specific form or version that a book, magazine, or similar publication is in

"She owns a rare first edition of her favorite Victorian novel."

"A limited edition is a commercial release where the number of copies produced is restricted to a specific quantity to create a sense of urgency and exclusivity."

a textbook or workbook designed to teach and develop reading skills

"This is my new reader."

"The children used a special reader to improve their literacy skills."

a single publication that is part of a set of similar works

"This volume is very thick."

"dusty volume of poetry down from the shelf."

a recurring element that is the main idea or subject in a literary or artistic piece

"Love is a common theme."

"The recurring theme of loss was evident throughout the entire novel."

a person who writes books, articles, etc., often as a job

"The author signed copies of his book."

"The author signed copies of her new book for a long line of eager fans at the bookstore."

a long movie full of adventure that could be about a historical event

"The movie was an epic adventure."

"The epic poem told the story of a brave hero who traveled across the sea and fought monsters."

a subject, idea, or phrase that is repeatedly used in a literary work

"The motif appears many times."

"The recurring motif of darkness throughout the novel creates a mysterious atmosphere."

the quality or character of speech, writing, or behavior that reflects the speaker's or writer's attitude

"His tone was angry."

"The author's sarcastic tone made the humorous story even more enjoyable for readers."

the emotional atmosphere or feeling created by a piece of writing

"The quiet music set a calm mood."

"The mood of the novel shifted dramatically after the unexpected death of the main character."