 | Term | Definition |
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allegory |
A representation of an abstract or spiritual meaning through concrete or material forms; a work that can be studied on more than one level (literal/symbolic). |
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anecdote |
A short account of a particular incident or event of an interesting or amusing nature, often biographical. |
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autobiography |
A history of a person's life written or told by that person. |
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ballad |
A light, simple song or poem of sentimental or romantic character, having two or more stanzas all sung to the same melody. |
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biography |
A written account of another person's life. |
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black comedy |
Comedy that employs morbid, gloomy, grotesque, or calamitous situations in its plot. |
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didactic literature |
A story intent on teaching a moral lesson. |
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drama/play |
A composition in prose or verse presenting in dialogue or pantomime a story involving conflict or contrast (generally intended to be acted out on stage). |
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epic |
A long poetic composition, usually centered upon a hero, in which a series of great achievements or events is narrated in elevated style. |
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essay |
A short literary composition on a particular theme or subject, usually in prose and generally analytic, speculative, or interpretative. |
