SAT Subject Test in Literature

The SAT Subject Test in Literature assesses students' understanding and analysis of literary texts, including poetry, prose, and drama.

Genres of LiteratureLiterary Devices and Figurative LanguageReading for Theme and Main Idea
Analyzing Tone and MoodClose Reading and Textual EvidenceInterpreting Symbolism and Imagery
Real-World Communication SkillsApplying Literary Analysis to MediaBuilding Empathy Through Literature
Time Management on the TestProcess of Elimination
Genres of LiteratureLiterary Devices and...Reading for Theme an...Analyzing Tone and M...Close Reading and Te...Interpreting Symboli...Real-World Communica...Applying Literary An...Building Empathy Thr...Time Management on t...Process of Eliminati...
Basic Concepts

Literary Devices and Figurative Language

Spotting Literary Devices

Literary devices help authors create meaning, mood, and emphasis. Recognizing these devices is essential for analyzing passages on the SAT Literature test.

Common Devices

  • Metaphor: Comparing two things without using "like" or "as" (e.g., "Time is a thief.")
  • Simile: Comparing two things using "like" or "as" (e.g., "Her smile was as bright as sunshine.")
  • Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds (e.g., "She sells seashells.")
  • Personification: Giving human qualities to non-human things (e.g., "The wind whispered.")

Why They Matter

Literary devices add layers of meaning and emotional impact. The SAT may ask you to identify these or explain how they affect a passage.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more you read, the easier it will be to spot these tricks of the trade!

Examples

  • A poem describing 'the angry sea' uses personification.

  • A novel that opens with 'It was a dark and stormy night' may use imagery and mood-setting.

In a Nutshell

Literary devices like metaphors and similes make writing vivid and meaningful.

Key Terms

Metaphor
A figure of speech that describes an object or action as something else, without using 'like' or 'as.'
Simile
A figure of speech comparing two unlike things using 'like' or 'as.'
Personification
Attributing human qualities to non-human things.
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Reading for Theme and Main Idea