English lit terms

Protagonist

The main character the story centers around (the “hero” or focus of the plot).

Antagonist

The character or force that opposes the protagonist (the “villain” or obstacle).

Main Character

A character who plays a major or significant role in the story.

Minor Character

A character who plays a smaller, supporting role.

Flat Character

A one-dimensional character who shows only a single trait.

Round Character

A complex, realistic character who shows many different traits.

Static Character

A character who does not change throughout the story.

Dynamic Character

A character who changes or grows as the story progresses.

Direct Characterization

The author directly states a character’s traits or qualities.

Indirect Characterization

The author reveals traits through speech, actions, appearance, or thoughts.

Internal Conflict

A struggle within a character’s mind (decisions, fears, emotions).

External Conflict

A struggle between a character and an outside force (another person, nature, or society).

Dramatic Irony

When the reader knows something that the character does not.

Situational Irony

When the opposite of what is expected happens.

Verbal Irony

When someone says something but means the opposite.

Exposition

The background information where setting and characters are introduced.

Inciting Incident

The event that introduces the central conflict.

Rising Action

The part of the story where tension builds through events and conflicts.

Climax

The turning point or most intense moment of the story.

Falling Action

Events that follow the climax and lead toward the resolution.

Resolution

The point where the main conflict is solved.

Denouement

The final aftermath or explanation after the resolution.

First Person Point of View

The narrator is a character in the story using “I” or “we.”

Limited Third Person Point of View

The narrator knows the thoughts of only one character.

Omniscient Third Person Point of View

The all-knowing narrator knows the thoughts of all characters.

Setting

The time and place where the story happens.

Subplot

A smaller secondary story that supports or contrasts the main plot.

Symbolism

When something stands for or represents a deeper meaning or idea.

Theme

The central idea or message of the story.

Stated Theme

A theme clearly expressed by the author.

Implicit Theme

A theme that is suggested or implied rather than directly stated.