English Literary Terms & Critical Reading Vocabulary for Students Practice Test

The aspect of storytelling that directly affects how readers feel about the characters and events is mood. Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere created by a work of literature, which can elicit specific feelings from the reader. For example, a gloomy and somber mood can create a sense of sadness or foreboding, while a light and playful mood can evoke feelings of joy or amusement. This emotional backdrop shapes the reader's perception of the characters and the unfolding events, helping to establish a deeper connection or reaction to the narrative.

Tone, while related to the author's attitude toward the subject, influences mood but does not directly dictate how readers feel. Symbolism involves the use of symbols to convey deeper meanings, which can add layers to the story but does not primarily establish emotional response. Point of view pertains to the perspective from which the story is told and can influence readers' understanding of characters and events but does not directly create the emotional tone of the story.