Anecdote - GCSE English Language Definition

What is an anecdote?

In GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language, an anecdote is a short, personal story which links the audience with the writer. They are often amusing or entertaining in nature.

Why do writers use anecdotes?

Writers use short anecdotes to highlight a point, a central theme or event. In literature, they can be used to give the reader a deeper understanding of a character, such as through their background or motives. Anecdotes are also often used in persuasive writing in order to engage the reader on a personal level.

Examples of anecdotes

Anecdotes can be personal, historical, cautionary, humorous, philosophical or inspirational. They can also be used by writers to highlight a key theme or as a literary device.

For example, in The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald, Daisy starts to tell Nick an anecdote about “the butler’s nose” to highlight the careless nature of wealthy Americans.