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Foreshadowing

Definition

Foreshadowing is a literary device where the author hints or suggests future events in a story. It creates suspense and prepares readers for what is to come.

Related terms

Symbolism: Symbolism is when an object, person, or situation represents something deeper or more abstract in a story.

Irony: Irony occurs when there's a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens.

Suspense: Suspense is the feeling of uncertainty or excitement about the outcome of events in a story.

"Foreshadowing" appears in:

Study guides (3)

AP English Literature - 6.3 Understanding nonlinear narrative structures like flashbacks and foreshadowing
AP English Literature - 7.6 Setting as a symbol
AP English Literature - 9.2 Suspense, resolution, and plot development

Additional resources (2)

AP English Literature - Unit 1 Overview: Introduction to Short Fiction
AP English Literature - Unit 6 Overview: Literary Techniques in Longer Works

Practice Questions (3)

What is the purpose of using foreshadowing in a narrative?
What does foreshadowing do to a narrative?
How does the use of narrative structures such as flashbacks and foreshadowing impact readers' experience?

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