Elements of Fiction Flashcards
Plot (Patterns of Development)
The sequence of events in a story and their relation to one another as they develop and often resolve a conflict. Usually has an end orientation in the opening paragraphs.
-Exposition, Rising Action, Turning Point, Climax, Falling Action, Conclusion/Denouement, Foreshaddowing
Plot: Exposition
Exposition—Characters and setting are introduced. Necessary background information provided.
Plot: Rising Action
The specific events that set the conflict in motion.
Plot: Turning Point
Occurs midway in the story before further complications prolong the suspense of the conflict’s resolution.
Plot: Climax
The emotional high point of the narration.
Plot: Falling Action
The event begins to wind down and point the reader to the conclusion.
Plot: Conclusion/Denouement
Conflict is resolved to a greater or lesser degree. Sometimes the conclusion introduces an unexpected turn of events or a surprise ending.
Plot: Foreshaddowing
Hints or clues about future events in the story
Style (Aspects of Style)
The characteristic way an author sues language
-Aspects: Tone, Irony, Symbol, Allegory
Style: Tone
The author’s unstated attitudes toward the story
Style: Irony
Makes the reader aware of a reality that differs from the reality the characters perceive (dramatic irony)
Style: Symbol
Anything in a story’s setting, plot or characterization that suggests an abstract meaning in addition to its literal significance
Style: Allegory
When all the characters, places, things and events represent symbolic qualities.
Character Types/Portrayal
Types: Protagonist, Antagonist, Anti-hero
Portrayal: Flat, Round
Charcter Types: Protagonist
Main character, usually heroic
Character Types: antagonist
Opposing character
Character Types: Anti-hero
Protagonist with undesirable characteristics
Character Portrayal: Flat
No change or development of character (static)
Character Portrayal: Round
A fuller understanding of the character’s actions and awareness provided (dynamic)
Setting (Dramatic Use)
Place and time of the story
-External reality, internal emotional life
Setting: Dramatic Use
Location for the story’s “world of feeling”, can affect character or plot
Setting Dramatic Use: External Realitty
The mental images stimulated by the words on paper
Setting Dramatic Use: Internal emotional life
Setting reflects character’s situation
Point of View (Narration)
The author’s choice of narration
-First person narration, third person narration
