An anachronism is a chronological inconsistency in a story, often a misplaced object or event. It can be a deliberate choice by the author to create humor, satire, or a sense of the fantastical, or it can be an unintentional error.
Examples of anachronisms:
* A wristwatch in a medieval setting: This is a clear anachronism, as wristwatches were not invented until much later.
* A modern car in a Victorian novel: This is also an anachronism, as cars were not in common use in the Victorian era.
* A character mentioning a smartphone in a historical setting: This is an anachronism that can be jarring for readers.
Types of Anachronisms:
* Proleptic: An object or event from the future appears in the past.
* Anachronism of Detail: A specific detail about a person, place, or event is incorrect for the time period.
* Anachronism of Sentiment: A character expresses a sentiment or belief that is not typical of their time period.
While anachronisms can be mistakes, they can also be used creatively to add humor, symbolism, or to comment on the themes of the story.