Short Stories Notes Flashcards
What is a short story
A piece of prose fiction that typically can be read in one sitting and focuses on a self-contained incident or series of linked incidents
Dictionary def:
An inverted prose narrative shorter than a novel, usually dealing with a few characters and aiming at unity of effect and often concentrating on a creation of mood rather than mood.
What is the normal length of a short story
Typically range from 1600-20 000 words
What is the typical subject of a short story
Usually focus on a single subject or theme
Explain the structure of a short story
Usually take place in a single setting and begin “in medias res” which means in the middle of things in Latin.
So, the exposition stage of a typical plot structure is often missing in short stories
Explain how short stories are typically written
Tend to begin and end abruptly, with little to no prior information and no major lapses in time. As they involve just one plot line and are limited in word length, there is little room or need for extended developments we usually find in novels
How many characters do we find in short stories
Limited number of characters: due to the limitations of the genre, short stories typically focus on just one or a couple characters
What are the six elements of a short story
Setting, conflict, character, plot, theme, point of view
What does setting refer to
The place and time of the story.
Where the action takes place
Define Protagonist
They are the person with whom the story is most concerned
Define antagonist
Opposes the Protagonist, or causes difficulty for the Protagonist. Does not have the main character’s best interest at heart
Define flat or one dimensional characters
They do not change in a story
Define round characters
They change and grow
