Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What literary device uses an object or action to represent a greater meaning?

1. Syntax

2. Synecdoche

3. Symbolism

4. Tetrameter

The correct answer is: Symbolism

The correct answer is Symbolism, which is a literary device wherein an object, character, figure, or action represents a deeper meaning or a broader concept beyond its literal sense. This allows authors to imbue their works with layers of meaning that encourage readers to engage more deeply with the text. Through symbolism, a writer can convey complex ideas and emotions in a more impactful and nuanced manner, enhancing the thematic richness of the narrative. For example, in literature, a rose might symbolize love and passion, while a journey might represent a character’s personal growth or quest for self-discovery. The use of symbols invites readers to interpret and derive meaning based on their own experiences and insights, which can vary widely among individuals. The other options do not fit the definition given for the question. Syntax, for instance, refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences, which does not involve representational meaning. Synecdoche is a specific form of metaphor where a part is used to represent the whole or vice versa, but it does not encompass the broader range of representation inherent in symbolism. Tetrameter, on the other hand, refers to a poetic meter that consists of four feet per line, and this does not involve representational meaning