Literary terms directory
Literary Concepts
Literary concepts name important critical ideas used to interpret characters, texts, and artistic effects.
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- ArchetypeLiterary ConceptAn archetype is a recurring narrative image, role, situation, or pattern used in criticism to compare works across traditions. Claims that a pattern is universal or psychologically innate depend on the critical framework and should not be assumed.
- HubrisLiterary ConceptHubris is overreaching arrogance or presumption, especially conduct that violates human, social, or divine limits in classical contexts. It may contribute to reversal or punishment, but it is not simply confidence and does not mechanically guarantee downfall.
- Negative CapabilityLiterary ConceptNegative Capability is John Keats's term for a capacity to remain with uncertainty, mystery, and doubt without impatiently forcing them into rational certainty. It describes an artistic and intellectual disposition, not simply vague writing or indecision.
- VerisimilitudeLiterary ConceptVerisimilitude is the quality of seeming true, plausible, or lifelike within a work's conventions. It concerns credible appearance and coherence, not whether represented events are factually true.