Narrative Structure Terms

Question 1

exposition

Answer 1

background information required to understand the story/narrative

Question 2

problem

Answer 2

the main argument of the story or what the author is exploring with the story; something to solve; leads to resolution (problem –> resolution)

Question 3

conflict

Answer 3

a struggle or disagreement found within the story that drives the plot forward; leads to climax (conflict –> climax)

Question 4

climax

Answer 4

the turning point in the narrative; when the conflict in the narrative reaches its ultimate peak/point (conflict –> climax)

Question 5

resolution

Answer 5

the point in the narrative in which the problem is resolved/solved/wrapped-up; reader is left with no questions (problem –> resolution)

Question 6

One vs. One

Answer 6

refers to a conflict between two people, animals, etc.

Question 7

One vs. Many

Answer 7

refers to a conflict between the protagonist/character and some kind of society, law, culture, etc.

Question 8

One vs. Self

Answer 8

refers to an internal conflict; this is when the character is struggling with some kind of inner difficulty or issue

Question 9

One vs. Environment

Answer 9

refers to a conflict between a character and his/her surroundings; also called One vs. Nature but, in modern literature, does not have to refer to a character’s natural surroundings