trope literary definition
A literary trope is the use of figurative language â via word, phrase, or even an image â for artistic effect such as using a figure of speech. Irony â creating a trope through implying the opposite of the standard meaning, such as describing a bad situation as good times. 2  Metaphor â an explanation of an object or idea through juxtaposition of disparate things with a similar characteristic, such as describing a courageous person as having a heart of a lion.