An anecdote is indeed a literary device. It refers to a short and interesting story about a real incident or person, often used to illustrate a point or to make readers laugh. Writers use anecdotes to provide context, build connections, or make their writing more relatable.
For example, in a memoir, a writer might share a personal anecdote from their childhood to highlight a theme of resilience. This short narrative can engage the audience emotionally while delivering a lesson or insight effectively. Anecdotes are powerful in both fiction and non-fiction, as they help to paint vivid pictures and add a personal touch to the content.