ela

Exposition

The beginning of a story where important background information is developed, including characters and setting.

Climax

The turning point in a story where the protagonist faces the conflict and undergoes major character development.

Atmosphere

The feeling created by the imagery used to describe the setting or surroundings at specific moments in the story.

Protagonist

The leading character or one of the major characters in a story.

Static Character

A character who does not change over the course of a story.

Conflict

The struggle between two opposing forces in a narrative, providing tension to drive the story forward.

Internal Conflict

Insight into a character’s motivations and inner turmoil, such as Character vs. Self.

Direct Characterization

When an author builds a character by explicitly stating their motives, values, and personality.

Symbolism

A concrete thing in a story that represents a more abstract and/or literary idea.

Postmodernist Period

A period in literature from 1945-present characterized by significant cultural shifts and a quest for identity focusing on inner experiences.