Elements of Plot and Types of Conflict Flashcards
Plot
the literary element that describes the structure of a story. Shows the arrangement of events and actions with a story.
Protagonist
The hero. The main character in a plot; the protagonist is usually the force for good in a story.
Antagonist
The villain. The character or entity that represents the opposition against which the protagonist must contend.
Conflict
conflict is the dramatic struggle between the forces in a story. Without conflict there is no plot.
Exposition
the start of the story. The situation before the action starts, or the conflict begins. Includes setting, time and place.Character descriptions. Intro to main conflict. Background info about plot. Sets the stage for conflict.
Rising action
The series of conflicts and crisis in the story that come before and lead up to the climax. Major character development
Climax
The turning point, the most intense moment. Can be mentally or in action. Crucial event, moves toward end.
Falling action
All of the actions and conflict that follows the climax. May encounter new conflicts, ties up some loose ends.
Resolution (denoument)
The conclusion of the story, when resolution of the conflict occurs.
Internal Conflict
the conflict that occurs between a character and an inside force
Man v. Himself
Subcategory of Internal conflict. This conflict occurs between a character and his own inner feelings, concerns or dilemmas. It could be when a person is wrestling with a decision or struggling with guilt over a decision already made.
External Conflict
the conflict that occurs between a character and an outside force
Man v. Man
Subcategory of External conflict. This conflict occurs between a character and another character.
Man v. Nature
occurs between a character and an outside naturally occurring force. Examples are a storm, a fire, or a wilderness experience.
Man v. Society
between a character and a force in society. Examples are a religious group, race group, or political group.
