Imagery in AP English Literature

Definition

Imagery refers to vivid and descriptive language that appeals to our senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, smell) in order to create mental images and evoke emotions in the reader.

Related terms

Metaphor:

A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as," creating vivid imagery by suggesting similarities between them.

Simile:

Similar to metaphors, similes also compare two unlike things but use "like" or "as" to make the comparison more explicit.

Symbolism:

Symbolism is when an object, person, place, or action represents something beyond its literal meaning. It adds depth and layers of meaning through visual imagery.