Analyzing and Interpreting Literature CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What literary device often leads to irony in a work?

1. Allusion

2. Diction

3. Alliteration

4. Irony

The correct answer is: Diction

An allusion is a literary device that refers to a well-known person, place, or event to add meaning or depth to a work. Alliteration is a technique that involves using the same sound at the beginning of multiple words in a phrase or sentence. While both of these devices can add interest and impact to a piece of writing, they are not directly linked to creating irony. Irony is when there is a difference between what someone expects to happen and what actually happens, often resulting in a humorous or unexpected outcome. This can be achieved through a variety of literary techniques, but is most commonly achieved through careful selection of diction, or word choice. Therefore, the correct answer is B Diction.