Literature: Theory (Short stories)

Question 1

True or false:

The length of a short story should be short enough to read in one sitting.

Answer 1

True

Question 2

What is the external structure of a short story?

Answer 2

Divided into paragraphs.

Question 3

Is there figurative language in short stories?

Answer 3

Yep.

Question 4

Discuss why an author would include figurative language in a short story.

Answer 4

To create meaning, mood, and tone.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a short story?

Answer 5

To entertain and share ideas.

Question 6

Name 5 types of short stories.

Answer 6

• Fantasy
• Horror
• Classic
• Drama
• Science fiction

Question 7

What is a flat character?

Answer 7

Not fully developed, we only know one side of the character

Question 8

What is a round character?

Answer 8

Is fully developed, with many sides to the character. These sides can be good or bad. The reader feels as if they know the character.

Question 9

What is a static character?

Answer 9

Does not change or develop.

Question 10

What is a dynamic character?

Answer 10

Changes in character and develops.

Question 11

Name the 5 parts of a short story, and briefly explain them.

Answer 11

1. An introduction that sets the scene and introduces the setting.
2. The situation (problem, conflict or situation) that the characters must deal with.
3. One or two events that develop the plot and prepare the reader for the climax.
4. The climax (most important part of the story) that has the main character solving the situation.
5. A conclusion that brings the story to an end.

Question 12

Name 8 genre specific features.

Answer 12

• Clear setting
• Plot
• Protagonist
• Antagonist
• Conflict
• Rising actions
• Climax and resolution
• Different types of narration

Question 13

Explain the difference between a protagonist and an antagonist.

Answer 13

Protagonists and antagonists are both essential characters in a story, but they propel the plot in different and usually opposite ways: The protagonist works toward the central story goals, while the antagonist works against the goals.
A protagonist is also known as the hero, while the antagonist is also known as the villain.

Question 14

There are five key features in a short story. Explain each one in detail:

• Introduction
• The situation
• Development of plot
• The climax
• A conclusion

Answer 14

Introduction: A short paragraph that sets the scene and introduces the main character(s).

The situation: A second paragraph that explains what the situation or problem is that the main character must solve.

Development of plot: A paragraph that helps the main character get closer to solving the problem or situation.

The climax: A paragraph where the main character solves the problem or situation. This is the climax.

A conclusion: A paragraph ending the story,explaining how all the pieces of the story came together.