Glossary
Character Development
The process by which a character changes, grows, or learns throughout a story, often highlighted or influenced by interactions with foil characters.
Example:
A protagonist's journey from naiveté to wisdom can be underscored by a cynical character development foil who remains unchanged, emphasizing the protagonist's growth.
Difference (of foils)
The significant contrasting traits, motivations, or actions between two characters that enable one to serve as a foil to the other, making specific qualities stand out.
Example:
The stark difference in ambition between Macbeth and Banquo, despite their shared prophecy, highlights Macbeth's tragic downfall.
Evidence and Analysis (FRQ)
In an AP Lit Free Response Question, the use of specific textual details (evidence) combined with insightful explanation (analysis) of how that evidence supports the thesis and develops the argument.
Example:
An essay might use direct quotes from a character's dialogue as evidence and analysis to show how their actions contrast with the protagonist's.
Foil Character
A literary device where a character's traits are emphasized through contrast with another character, highlighting specific differences.
Example:
In Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy serves as a foil character to Harry, highlighting Harry's humility and moral compass through Draco's arrogance and prejudice.
Gemstone Analogy
A memory aid comparing a foil character to a gemstone's setting, which enhances the brilliance of the main character (the gem) by making their qualities stand out.
Example:
Thinking of the gemstone analogy helps remember that a foil isn't just an opposite, but a character designed to make the protagonist's traits sparkle.
Interpretation (FRQ)
In an AP Lit Free Response Question, the explanation of how the literary elements discussed contribute to the overall meaning, themes, or purpose of the work as a whole.
Example:
An essay on Frankenstein might offer an interpretation of how Victor's ambition, highlighted by the creature's desire for companionship, contributes to the novel's themes of responsibility and isolation.
Opposition (as foils)
A type of foil where characters are in direct conflict or possess contrasting morals, goals, or personalities, which serves to define each character more clearly.
Example:
The Joker's chaotic nihilism is in direct opposition to Batman's unwavering commitment to justice, making them classic foils.
Relationship (of foils)
The narrative or structural connection between two characters that allows their contrasting traits to be highlighted, which is essential for them to function as foils.
Example:
The complex relationship between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, though often cooperative, allows Watson's grounded perspective to highlight Holmes's eccentric brilliance.
Similar Characters (as foils)
A type of foil where characters share some traits or backgrounds but make different choices or use those traits in contrasting ways, emphasizing the impact of their decisions.
Example:
In The Great Gatsby, Nick Carraway and Tom Buchanan are both wealthy men, but Nick's moral introspection contrasts sharply with Tom's blatant immorality, making them similar characters who act as foils.
Sophistication (FRQ)
In an AP Lit Free Response Question, a demonstration of nuanced understanding, complex argumentation, insightful connections, or a particularly compelling style that elevates the essay beyond basic competence.
Example:
An essay might achieve sophistication by exploring the subtle ways a foil character not only highlights the protagonist but also undergoes their own complex internal struggle.
Thesis (FRQ)
In an AP Lit Free Response Question, a clear and defensible argument presented in the introduction that directly responds to the prompt and outlines the essay's main claim.
Example:
For an essay on The Odyssey, a strong thesis might argue that Odysseus's cunning is consistently highlighted by the straightforward loyalty of his crew.