Unit 1: Literary Analysis Review Flashcards
exposition
background info of the plot that includes characters and setting
initial incident
the very first conflict that occurs in the plot
rising action
3 major events that add suspense or tension to the plot (complications or frustrations) that lead to the climax
climax
the most suspenseful part of the plot. the turning point for the protagonist’s character
falling action
3 events (or less) that unravel the conflict between the protagonist and antagonist that lead to the resolution
Denouement
the “tying up of loose ends”
conflict
the “spark” that ignites the action
time
when an author opts to tell a story out of chronological sequence, perhaps with flashbacks or by foreshadowing
protagonist
the lead/main character(s) whose pursuit of a goal/goals drives the narrative.
what does the protagonist go through?
face obstacles and opponents who interfere with their ability to get what they want.
antagonist
the main character(s) who operates in opposition to the protagonist and interferes with the protagonist’s ability to achieve goals.
foil
a character who emphasizes the characteristics of another character through contrasting characteristics, actions, dialogue, situations, etc.
mirror
a character who emphasizes the characteristics of another character through similar characteristics, actions, dialogue, situations, etc.
flat/simple character
Uncomplicated, two dimensional, not very interesting, often a stereotypical character who does not develop or change much during the story.
round/complex character
Complex, interesting character who does develop and/or change throughout the story. An author includes more details about round characters to more fully flesh out a person with distinct traits and characteristics.
dynamic character
evolves as the story progresses
static character
stays the same throughout the story
symbolic character
Signifies/symbolizes a well-known person, place, thing, or idea. Symbolic characters may be static or dynamic, but they exist in part to subtly direct the audience’s imagination toward broader ideas.
