P2: Literary Conventions; Structure

Question 1

Define: circular narrative

Answer 1

a story that ends in the same place it began - provides closure through a return to the opening material.

Question 2

Define: climax

Answer 2

conflict/ tension at its highest point

Question 3

Define: exposition

Answer 3

background information: matter-of-fact way

Question 4

Define: flashback/flash-forward

Answer 4

an interruption of the chronological sequence (back or forwards)

Question 5

Define: foreshadowing

Answer 5

warning/indication of a future event

• builds anticipation in mind of reader
• creates dramatic tension
• can make extraordinary events seem believable because the reader is prepared

Question 6

Define: frame/embedded narrative

Answer 6

a story within a story - frame provides context for the embedded narrative

Question 7

Define: in media res

Answer 7

‘into the middle of things’ - narrative begins in middle of story, usually at a critical point

Question 8

Define: narrative disruption

Answer 8

events in non-chronological order - often used to mimic recall of human memory

Question 9

Define: resolution

Answer 9

solving conflict

Question 10

Define: stream of consciousness

Answer 10

character’s thoughts, feelings, and reactions = depicted in continuous flow uninterrupted by objective description

Question 11

Define: spiral narrative

Answer 11

exploring a story’s prevailing theme from many different angles/perspectives

Question 12

Define: verisimilitude

Answer 12

resemblance of fictitious to reality