LITERARY TECHNIQUES

refer to specific methods writers employ in their works to creatively convey messages.

ANAPHORA
Anaphora, refers to the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of a sentence to create an
artistic or heightened effect. It adds rhythm to a particular line or paragraph, making it easier to
memorize or remember. Anaphora is also used for emphasis or to stir emotions among the audience.

ANTIHERO
Anti-hero is a literary device used by writers for a prominent character in a play or book that has
characteristics opposite to that of a conventional hero. The protagonist is generally admired for his
bravery, strength, charm, or ingenuity, while an anti-hero is typically clumsy, unsolicited,
unskilled, and has both good and bad qualities.

CLIFF-HANGER
Cliff-hanger is a literary technique used by the author to arouse curiosity among readers by ending a
chapter or story abruptly. Most of the time, the characters are confronted with a difficult or an
unsettling situation. Instead of providing a resolution, the author would end it. Furthermore, this
technique is often found in serialized works.

JUXTAPOSITION
Juxtaposition is a technique authors use in their works to compare two different things, or two
contrasting ideas to be able to emphasize their differences, such as good and evil, life and death,
truth and lies, among others. This technique is also used to develop a character, resolve a conflict, or
clarify various concepts.

CATHARSIS
Catharsis is derived from the Greek word katharsis, which means “purification” or “purgation.” It refers
to the emotional release or cleansing of the characters, or audience or readers, from strong
emotions usually brought by learning of the truth or when confronted with difficult situations.
This technique is commonly found in tragedies, such as Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and
Sophocles’ Oedipus the King.

HAMARTIA
It refers to the tragic hero’s error in judgment, which leads to his or her downfall. Hamartia is
used to have the audience identify themselves with the protagonist (that he or she has weaknesses
too) and to provoke pity because of the miserable turn of events he or she went through. Additionally,
it is used to impart a moral objective among readers or audience to improve or change for the better
so as to avoid the tragedy that has befallen the protagonist.