Literary Elements and Narrative Analysis Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key literary concepts including types of conflict, characterization methods, plot structures, spectacle, dialogue, and film music based on the provided lecture notes.

Conflict

The struggle or clash between opposing forces that helps readers understand characters better and keeps the story interesting.

Internal Conflict

The struggle within a character’s own mind involving emotions, desires, fears, or values, driving personal growth and character depth.

External Conflict

The struggle against outside forces such as other people, society, nature, or circumstances, pushing the plot forward through visible challenges.

Character versus Character

A type of conflict involving a struggle between two or more characters who clash because they have different goals and beliefs.

Character versus Society

A type of conflict involving a struggle between a character and the rules, laws, or beliefs of society.

Character versus Nature

A type of conflict involving a struggle between a character and the natural world.

Character versus Self

A type of conflict involving a struggle inside the character’s mind or heart.

Characterization

The way writers or authors reveal a character's traits, motives, and personality in a story.

Direct Characterization

A characterization method where the author directly tells the audience what a character is like through physical descriptions or personality statements.

Indirect Characterization

A characterization method summarized as 'SHOW, DON’T TELL,' where the author shows a character’s traits through actions, thoughts, dialogue, appearance, or reactions of others.

STEAL Method

A framework writers use to structure indirect characterization, standing for Speech, Thoughts, Effects on others, Actions, and Looks.

Plot

The sequence of events in a story that answers what happens.

Linear Plot

A plot structure where events unfold in chronological order.

Circular Plot

A plot structure where the story ends where it began, creating symmetry.

Episodic Plot

A plot structure consisting of a series of loosely connected events or episodes.

Progressive Plot

A plot structure that builds steadily toward a climax and resolution.

Regressive Plot

A plot structure that moves backward in time, often through flashbacks.

Spectacle

The visual and sensory aspects of a story, including the setting, costumes, physical appearance, and stage effects that create atmosphere and reinforce meaning.

Dialogues

Spoken exchanges between characters in a narrative used as a literary device to reveal personality, advance the plot, convey themes, and make the story feel alive.

Music (in film)

The deliberate use of instrumental or vocal sound to support and enhance storytelling, emotional impact, and atmosphere in a cinematic work.