In this lesson, you will learn what is meant by the term genre.

In addition, the main types of literary

genres will be described, with examples given for each.

What is a Genre?
Ever have a friend suggest a movie to go see, but you responded, 'I'm not in the mood for that?' What did
you mean? Was it a scary movie and you were in the mood to laugh? Was it a sad movie, but you wanted
some action? If so, then you already know about genres.
A genre is a broad term that translates from the French to mean 'kind' or 'type.' In entertainment, this can
translate to horror, romance, science fiction, etc. In general, these types differ for all sorts of reasons, from
the actions in their plots to the feelings they elicit from the audience. However, in literature, there are
some more defined genres. It is important to know which genre a piece of work falls into because the
reader will already have certain expectations before, he even begins to read.
Genre, in broad terms, refers to any works that share certain characteristics. If enough characteristics are
in common, then the pieces are said to be in the same genre. In literature, there are four main genres to
help the reader focus their expectations for the piece, though these genres can be broken down even
further.

Types & Characteristics of Genres: Poetry

A main literary genre is poetry. All poems share specific characteristics. For example, poetry is written in
lines and stanzas instead of sentences and paragraphs. Some poems follow strict rules as to the number
and length of lines and stanzas, whereas many poems are much more free-flowing.
Most poetry is abundant in figurative language. Using devices like a simile, metaphor, hyperbole,
onomatopoeia, alliteration, rhyme, and much more, poetry can claim an emphasis on imagination,
emotions, and heartfelt ideas.
Poetry is usually shorter than the other genres, but some poems are classified as epic poetry, which is
long narrative poetry chronicling heroic deeds and serious subject matter. For example, John Milton's epic
poem Paradise Lost focuses on Satan's fall from grace and his following pursuit of revenge.

Types & Characteristics of Genres: Fiction

Poetry, however, is not the only genre that can utilize figurative language. Similarly, fiction, which is any
work written in prose that is not real, can also use elaborate figurative language. However, fiction is much
more structured than poetry. It must be written in sentences and paragraphs with all the proper
punctuation and grammar, which makes it prose. Usually, fiction is broken up into chapters, as well.
Since it is based on the imagination, the subject matter in fiction works can be nearly anything. Fiction can
take place in the present day, the future, or the past. It can incorporate the most fantastical ideas or follow
an everyday life. Some examples of works of fiction are legends, folk tales, fairy tales, short stories, and
any novels. For example, the popular Hunger Games and Divergent trilogies are fiction which occurs in
a post-apocalyptic future.

21st Century Literature from the Philippines and the World

STEM-11
Ms. Agnes S. Macam